Reasons to become a Diesel Mechanic

Reason one: Being a diesel mechanic is mentally challenging.

On the surface, changing an oil filter or a tire seem like mind-numbingly easy tasks. But there’s so much more to being a capable diesel mechanic. And that’s because it combines numerous different trade skills.

As a mechanic, some days you are a sparky because you’re diagnosing basic electrical faults. Or, you’re a fitter and turner, because you have to fabricate a new bracket. Other times, you’re a boil-maker because you have to weld an exhaust pipe. But, every day, you’re a problem solver, either finding the cause of a fault or solving the problem of a broken bolt stuck in an awful spot.

Because of the wide mix of different hands-on and mental skills required to carry out the job of a diesel mechanic, there’s always something new to learn. But even on the days when you are spinning filters and you’re not challenged by the task, there’s mindfulness in physically completing a job with your hands.

Reason two: Being a diesel mechanic is active.

While there is still computer work (like writing repairs records, searching for parts or using diagnostic software), the job requires you to be active. Regardless of the size of the machine, you’ll be constantly on the move. You might be walking around the machine, rolling under the machine, or climbing up and over the machine to get the job done.

Without any extra effort on your part, you’ll reach your step count simply by being a diesel mechanic.

Reason three: Being a diesel mechanic teaches you confidence in using tools.

Knowing how to use different power tools like drills, grinders, or rattle guns, aren’t prerequisites to starting an apprenticeship. You can sign up without knowing the difference between a shifter and a spanner and still succeed. That’s because learning to use tools safely and effectively is one of the skills you get taught.

Using tools is essential as a diesel mechanic. It helps you get the job done quicker while also making the job safer and easier. And, the more you use the tools, the more competent and confident you are at using them.

The added bonus of having the confidence to use tools is that you can carry out DIY tasks outside of work. Whether that’s around your home, on your car – or your parents’ car – confidence using tools is a skill that you get to keep with you for life.

Reason four: Being a diesel mechanic gives you access to diverse work opportunities.

As a diesel mechanic, there are numerous industries and machine types that you can work and specialise within, like:

The list could go on and on. The point being that while the mechanical principles stay the same across machines and industries, there is always something new to work on. You may work in a workshop, or out on-site with the machines. You might sign up to a FIFO (fly-in fly-out) roster at a mine, or start your own business close to home.

Just like the many different trade skills you gain, there are just as many different ways to move through a career as a diesel mechanic. This list doesn’t even account for the opportunities that exist if you pursue promotions or up-skill. (You could get promoted to a workshop manager, branch manager, work in a trade school, or fill a fleet management role. Again, the list goes on and on.)

Reason five: Being a diesel mechanic is awesome!

There are so many great aspects of being a diesel mechanic and a tradesperson in general. But, don’t take my word for it. If this type of career is something you’re interested in, find a way to engage with the industry today. Sign up for work experience, Google a course, or talk to a family friend who currently works as a mechanic.

I had no interest in being a mechanic until I accidentally signed up for work experience in a heavy vehicle workshop (you can read more about that here). That one experience was enough to spark my curiosity and start me on a new path.

So…

You don’t need to be interested in mechanics to succeed. If you like to be mentally challenged, stay active and work with your hands, a career as a diesel mechanic may be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s never too late to start!

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