A great many of you reading this column are about to discover one of life’s great mysteries-life after school. Up until now, the jobs you held were probably part-time or involving something you didn’t consider a career. For those of you graduating, all of that is about to change.
You’ve spent a great deal of time and effort preparing for a career in the automotive industry. The chance to finally get out on your own and use those hard-earned skills is something you’ve been preparing for your whole life, and you should be proud of the achievements you’ve made so far.
In many ways, I envy you for the experience you’re about to encounter. The automotive industry has provided much more than a simple livelihood for my family over the years. It’s given me good friends, many opportunities, and more than a few interesting moments. As an automotive professional, whether it’s in the service bay, behind a parts counter, or any other ASE certified category, you have chosen a career in which the possibilities are endless. It doesn’t matter where you begin, if you work hard and keep learning, you’ll find may opportunities you never dreamed existed. I know I did.
As with anything worthwhile, however, a lot depends on your personal effort. The old saying is true-the more you put in, the more you get back. That means showing commitment in everything you do, from being on time to doing the best you can every day. And although you’re leaving school, you’re going to find that learning is a lifetime responsibility. Take advantage of every opportunity you encounter to increase your skills and knowledge. The more you know, the more doors will open, and the more rewarding you will find your automotive career.
I also hope you will take advantage of ASE certification. Professional credentials are more important now than ever before. Employers and consumers both recognize the value being ASE certified provides in demonstrating the professionalism of the individual who holds such credentials. It’s a badge of honor that will show the world you care enough about your chosen profession to go the extra mile and clearly demonstrate that you are among the very best. Being an ASE-certified professional makes you a member of an elite fraternity, and we’ll be here throughout your career to provide the kind of professional services that will give you the edge in a very competitive world.
As you move on, I wish you good health, happiness and success in whatever field of endeavor you choose to pursue. Stay focused, but take the time to appreciate what’s really important. Be there for yourself and your family. Keep in shape, and never, ever pass up the opportunity to play with your kids (or anyone else’s for that matter). Such things will keep you young and make you love what you do. And if you find a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.
