Computer Has Become The Tool Of Choice For Auto Technicians Nee Mechanics

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September 2002 -- Back in '70s, a wrench was the basic tool of an auto mechanic. Today, however, the wrench has been replaced with a computer, and mechanics are now called technicians.

"In the early '80s we went to one or two computers, one for the engine and maybe one for the anti-lock brakes," says Chris Wallace of General Motors. "As we've gotten into the 2000 model year, we're up to as many as 25 or more computers that all talk together to make the car operate."

While today's technicians start out with salaries in the low twenties, the most experienced can make over $100,000 a year. But that requires constantly updating their knowledge of the ever changing, always improving engines and systems on the vehicles they service.

"When I was working in the muffler shop, I was working there 3 years, and I was topped out already," says Chad Lehman, automotive technician. "That was it. That was the most I was going to make. I took a pay cut to come here, but to be in a place like this is opportunity. I'd like to learn everything that I can possibly know. Knowledge is power and power gives me a career."

The challenging atmosphere combined with the potential of a good salary makes for stiff competition getting technician jobs, especially at dealerships. Bruce Wilson, featured as a Mr. Goodwrench in early '90s television advertising, still loves the job.

"I say I'm like a doctor," says Wilson. "I have just as many lives in my hands. The only advantage a doctor has over me is he's only got two models to work with. I've got to learn all the models and they change every year."

Wilson hasn't thrown away his wrench, and still occasionally gets his hands dirty at work, but he says, it's the kind of job any man or woman could make a career out of.