Automatic Transmission Mechanic Profile
I have always wanted to be involved in the automotive industry since I was very young – who wouldn’t want to work in such a dynamic industry. I grew up in Fiji and always loved giving my Dad a hand with any mechanical work in his garage. I just loved the whole atmosphere of metal and oil and good hard work.
When I grew up I had an enormous passion for cars. My dad operated his own garage from home back in Fiji , so I always loved getting my hands dirty and involving myself in any panel beating or metal work that needed to be done.
The work I do
On a weekly basis I usually work on light and heavy vehicles, motorcycles, plant and outdoor power equipment. The duties include carrying out diagnostic procedures, servicing, repair and overhaul of clutch assemblies and servicing, repair and overhaul of automatic transmissions and final drive assemblies.
In addition, I usually service diesel and petrol fuel systems and ignition systems as well as repair electronic engine and drive management systems. I also look at carrying out a few minor repairs to electrical circuits and systems and prepare the vehicle/equipment for customer use.
Education and training
I am currently in my fourth year of an Automatic Transmission Mechanic
apprenticeship course. I finished year 12 in Australia and immediately
entered my apprenticeship. The level of knowledge I have learnt in the
past three has been amazing. I’m pretty confident that now I could
handle almost any mechanical issues that comes my way. It’s a great
feeling to love what you are doing, and know you are doing it well!
>> course/qualification
My workplace
We just moved into a new factory, so we are still settling in, but our new place is incredible. There is plenty of space and the place is so clean – it’s an excellent set-up.
Everyone here is great fun. I am the youngest here, with everyone in the 30s and 40s, but we all get along as if we have known each other forever.
Why I love this industry...
I just love fixing cars. Even after a day’s work has finished, I usually head home and continue fixing up my own car, or doing minor repairs and check-ups for my friend’s cars. I’m in a great situation where I can get paid to live out my passion and hobby. I have found with my apprenticeship that it is a very practical skill, and the kind of knowledge I have learnt now will remain valuable for the rest of my life.
I plan to remain where I am at the moment, but hopefully one day I would definitely love to own and manage my own workshop.
ATA would like to thank Fluidrive for their assistance.