Is age a problem?

[Westfield]

Hi Everyone,

I’m not a mechanic yet but I’m thinking of going back to school and getting my AAS and as many ASE Certs as I can. The problem is I will be 52 years old this year.

I already have a certificate in electronics, an AAS in Information Technology as well as a BS in Information Technology. I’m thinking of going back to school for two reasons: 1. I have been ‘underemployed’ for a couple of years now so I need to ‘re-career’ myself. 2. I have always enjoyed working on cars.

My question is: Will my age be a problem when I start looking for a job?

Thanks!

Topic

[619DioFan]

I don’t think age is that much of a problem ( I am in your ” age bracket ” as well ) fact is maturity brings forth a higher level of work ethic – IMO, that said let me throw some things to think about…

How are you planning to get your automotive schooling ? a community college program is the cheapest way but takes quite long. the ” trade” schools are the fastest way but very expensive so I have heard.

Tools- once out of school you will need a decent set to start working. depending on what you have ( or don’t have ) you may be looking at a sizable investment.

Employment- how is the economy where you live ? check the papers and internet ads for mechanic jobs- are they plentiful ? I can tell you that here in SanDiego most mechanics are hurting. craigs list is filled with mechanics tools for sale as well as the pawn shops. also , most places are hesitant to hire some one ” fresh ” out of school and have them start doing full blown tech work. most times they want you to start out as a lube tech which doesnt pay very well – IMO.

Health- age may not be a factor but physical condition is. working on cars every day is hard on anyones body . being bent over a fender all day ( can you say ” ow my aching back ” ) I am 6’4” ( 6’6” in my boots ) and train with weights every day and my lower back hated that bent position. hit my head on more hood latches then I care to remember and since most racks don’t go up high enough for me I have nearly knocked myself out hitting mufflers , lower control arms , rear ends and the rack arms with my melon. it was these things and others that made me realize I did not like fixing cars every day and left that industry.

I am not trying to desuade you from this idea more just throwing out things to ponder. hope this info is in some way helpful to you.

[ytram]

I am 3 years younger then you. My question is how is your back and knees?! If you have a desire to do it,why not? We will probably all have to work untill we are 90 before we will have a retirement coming up here in the future!

[dreamer2355]

I would hope that age would not be a problem as it would be discrimination.

A solid automotive education is a must. But i wouldn’t quit your day job yet before trying to find a job in this field.

[twiggy]

Come on man, 52 is not that old!! I think you got plenty of time to go at it since its something you like.

[Trcustoms719]

Your only as old as you feel, if you think your up to it then go for it!

[ytram]

Quoted From Trcustoms719:

Your only as old as you feel, if you think your up to it then go for it!

That, some mornings makes me the oldest man in the world!!!

[Westfield]

@69DioFan

Thanks for the detailed reply.

I was thinking of going to the local Community College to get an AAS in Auto Tech. Some of their courses are ASE certified and they encourage ASE Certification so it sounds like they have their heads in the right

[drthrift035]

I would say that you should get the necessary education you need and start your own business. You can do jobs on the side with your skills and make your own money. Age does not matter at all.

[crandall]

Follow that dream! If your heart is into it, then you will find a way to make it work.

Also, after age 40, we (I am 55) are in a protected group in the eyes of the law – we cannot be discriminated against because of our age.

Of course, you could also go the independent route and be your own boss by starting your own shop. That would have some advantages to it as well.

[igdlt]

Go for it man there is nothing to be afraid of, age is just a number.

[skim3544]

Age is not a problem but having a bad back is an issue. Removing a cylinder head, you would have to bend over and carry 50 lb weight for 10 – 15 minutes. Specially when you are installing the cylinder head back into the engine and have to align it just right.

[PirateVR6]

Age doesn’t matter, there is no age to stop learning and bettering yourself. i went to UTI and there were guys in there in there 60’s which i had mad respect for.

[Author]

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