I know this a kind of a personal question, however this forum has a few current and retired mechanics and I was wondering if you guys could give me some insight on getting my foot in the door in this career field.

This isn't off the whim, I've been pondering it for quite some time. How should I present myself? How should my resume be written? Do I apply in person etc.


Can someone like me, get in? I have no prior professional experience and at best an old ASE student certificate from high school and some DIY experience. Truth be told, I have more experience and mechanical inclination after working on my 300SDL than the day I came straight out of high school with 2 years of "autotech" vocational training.


What are shops I should avoid and things to watch out for? I won't give you my life story but I'm tired of my current job which is low wage food service. Friends and family always ask "Why don't you go in?" So I thought I'd ask you guys.

My end goal is to work my way into Diesels if possible either big rigs or heavy equipment, however I'll start off via any means necessary.


Looking forward to the discussion.

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1998 Ford Escort ZX2 5 speed - 279,000 miles My Daily

1992 Mercedes 300D 2.5 202,000 - Pure junk
2000 Mercedes E320 Black - 136,000 miles - Needs repair

Don't forget to grease the screw and threads on the spring compressor.