Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 1 ∣ Career Opportunities 9 manufacturers and aftermarket parts suppliers. The best instructors have practical knowl- edge and experience in the industry, possess excellent communication and people skills, and are able to deal with teaching people from diverse backgrounds. Instructors teach students using lectures, multi-media resources, and hands-on work and demonstrations. In addition to transferring knowledge to the students, an automo- tive teacher must also develop lesson plans and organize the classroom and shop so that the preparation, instruction, shop work, and cleanup are performed efficiently. Foremost, automotive instructors should emphasize safety in the shop, such as using the proper per- sonal protective equipment and safety guards, and demonstrate the safe operation of tools, machines, and equipment. The ideal automotive instructor should have worked in the automotive repair busi- ness and have training in educational methods. Some school systems and manufacturers require a college degree, while others allow the instructor to obtain academic experience through night or weekend educational courses. Another vital attribute is the ability and desire to stay informed about new technology, both in vehicles and in the classroom. Education and Training for the Automotive Industry Traditional colleges and universities, trade schools, technical colleges, the armed forces, and apprenticeship programs offer excellent opportunities to acquire the training neces- sary to gain employment in the automotive industry. The following sections contain a brief description of each postsecondary path. Four-Year College or University If you are interested in a career in the automotive industry other than as a service tech- nician, you might consider obtaining a degree from a traditional four-year college. Many people work in automotive careers requiring a degree. Examples are automotive engineering, plant and dealership management, sales, and automotive education. Many four-year colleges offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in automotive engi- neering. An automotive engineering degree allows you to specialize in the auto engineer- ing and design field. In addition to the general education courses all college students take as undergrads, specialty courses for automotive engineering degrees include automotive internal-combustion engine design, chassis and powertrain design, electronic systems, hybrid and electric vehicle technology, failure analysis, crash dynamics, and accident reconstruction. Other degrees that can lead to an automotive career include business management, manufacturing, and finance. Graduates from these programs have the opportunity to become managers and executives at manufacturing and distribution companies in the auto- motive sector. A degree in education, especially trade and industrial education, will prepare you for a job as an instructor or school administrator. Trade School and Technical College Many trade schools, technical colleges, and community colleges offer excellent courses aimed at teaching automotive technology, Figure 1-11. Some of these schools are supported by state and local governments, while others are private institutions. Many corporate- sponsored apprenticeship and manufacturer-spon- sored training programs are located in these schools. Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com Figure 1-11. Receiving automotive service training at trade schools or technical colleges from instructors who have worked, or are currently working, in the auto service field is an excellent way for student technicians to learn.