Brake Mechanic Profile
I grew up loving the excitement and adrenaline associated with cars. Even now I still get a massive thrill from working on such amazing technology. When I was younger, I always had a certain eagerness to leave school and enter the workforce – my enthusiasm for cars fuelled my desire and energy.
I decided to leave school a bit early and began working in the transportation industry. But this didn’t seem to satisfy my passion for cars – plus it didn’t really have the long-term stability and economic success of the automotive industry. I knew the automotive industry was where things would happen, but if I were to ever get anywhere I would need more extensive qualifications. So as I completed year 12 at night school I was also becoming qualified as an automotive technician through an apprenticeship.
I officially entered the industry as a motor mechanic. But when I was offered a position of Service Manager for a country dealership I knew this is where I would gain the knowledge and skills to perfect my trade. If I stayed in Melbourne I would have been one of many struggling my way up through a number of individual jobs. However being located in a country dealership basically demanded I know everything, from hands-on work to office operations, the whole gamut.
After a number of years I decided to return to Melbourne , and from there I was lucky enough to create a joint business with a guy who worked within the brake sector of the industry. Now I own a business which pulls in an incredible profit and is widely considered the best brakes specialist this side of town. Not bad considering it all stemmed from simply following my passion.
The work I do
My role as a brake mechanic broadly requires me to diagnose, repair/replace and test the parts of disc, drum or power brake systems used on motor vehicles including cars, trucks, buses and semi-trailers.
Specifically though, this will involve the repair and servicing of hydraulic systems, overhaul, repair and servicing of braking systems, the repair of electric and electronic anti-lock braking systems and the assembly and fitting of braking systems. This will include machining of brake drums and brake disc rotors, bonding and attachment of friction materials and radius grind.
As part owner I also am required to perform a number of office duties on a daily basis involving customer management, product sourcing, ensuring timelines are met and generally keeping morale high.
My workplace
The set-up works really well for what we require. We have always managed to get the best tools and equipment into the workshop – everyone’s attitude really sparks up when they know they are working with the best technology on offer.
The atmosphere amongst the guys here is also really good. Everyone seems to understand each other really well, and although we have our ups and downs amongst staff, everybody really enjoys what they are doing and that reflects in the quality of work we carry out.
Education and training
After completing my apprenticeship as an Automotive Technician, I knew there was always something more to learn about the industry. So I completed a number of automotive short courses through TAFE as well as a collection of HR certificates through business and management colleges.
Most recently though I completed the Certificate III in Automotive (Mechanical – Brakes),
which I considered essential if I was to own a brake specialists store.
It didn’t take me long to realise that if you want to remain at the
top of the industry, then training cannot be avoided. It is integral to
continually stimulate your brain and create new challenges for yourself.
>> course/qualification
Why I love this industry…
The automotive industry is really creating a buzz, a bit of infectious energy which stems from the continual developments in technology and electronics. Cars are full of some of the most amazing technology nowadays. Though over the years the fundamentals haven’t changed a whole lot, there has been considerable improvements in the operating capabilities and accuracy of the systems. It is definitely a vibrant industry.
I have also met some fantastic people in the industry, which always adds a nice feel to the industry. I guess if you treat the industry with the appropriate levels of respect and your willing to put in a bit of effort, then you will come out of all the training with excellent skills and a great source of income.
Lucky I haven’t ever lost enthusiasm for the industry, which I can probably attribute to my enjoyment in simply playing with cars – seems as if nothing has changed since I was younger!
A challenge definitely presents itself everyday. I always need to keep my wits about me, and think one step ahead – but I have found a genuine passion of mine and plan to stay within the industry for sometime yet, simply because I’m having fun!