In the automotive industry personally I have heard both sides of the argument concerning ASE , OEM and ICAR certifications. I have also been employed by dealers where guys were considered OEM Master Certified and they have no clue what voltage drop is or even how to properly perform a parasitic draw test. Oh and by the way a lab scope is completely alien to them and the concept of having a diagnostic process for finding faults is non existent.
In my personal Experience
Sometimes this was honestly the fault of OEM certification procedures that allow multiple attempts for example. I even recall being around a co worker who was diesel master certified but due to current management they did not trust him with in-depth diagnostic work or engine tear down rebuild or replacement jobs.
Ok I’m done with my soap box whining no one needs that attitude I’m actually am for getting certified in all things. Rather that is software development, electrical engineering or the automotive industry as a technician.
The Argument for becoming
Currently l am ASE Master Certified,L1 Advanced Engine Performance L4 Adv. Advance Driver Systems Specialist,T1,T6 Medium duty stuff along with Associates in Applied Science from General Motors Automotive service education program (GM ASEP). I’m also level 3 in Engine performance, Hvac, Drivetrain, Chassis, Certified Electrical and Transmission from FCA Stellantis (Mopar or no car!) I mentioned this because one obviously it did not happen over night. Two my certifications open up doors for me that the average Joe would have had a harder time even getting a foot in the doorway without. The actual experience is more important and the process of devouring fresh juicy ripe knowledge leading to a obsession with applying and refining my skillset. While studying for my next certification is a priceless experience that keeps my synapses firing.
ASE tests is something I would encourage any technician to take or any industry recognized certification. Majority of industry accredited certifications are setup to test if you have actual experience and the ability to grasp new concepts to apply with new emerging technologies. If your on the fence about getting certified due to your current shop not giving any incentive for technicians showing initiative in personally improving their skills. Then honestly I’m sure you heard the saying tool boxes have wheels for a reason.
A certified automotive technician with the actual hands on experience to back it up is invaluable asset to any company. The companies that are aware of this pay the big bucks and I’m not referring to Bambi’s uncle.
| Certified Automotive Tech’s | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
| The Elite -5yrs or more experience strong background in diagnostics. | $81,500 | $6,791 | $1,567 | $39 |
| Emerging tech 3yrs or more starting to find their niche and pursuing becoming a specialist. | $69,000 | $5,750 | $1,326 | $33 |
| Average 2yrs experience with certifications possible starting salary dependent on location/shop. | $57,599 | $4,799 | $1,107 | $28 |
| Sub Par 1yr experience apprentice with graduate program degree/certifications | $45,500 | $3,791 | $875 | $22 |
Speaking from experience where I have personally seen companies throw bids in my direction with lucrative incentives and bonus starting salaries etc.
My point is don’t shy away from the certifications go get you a couple. You just might learn something in the process while getting paid to do it!