Farm Equipment Mechanics

Many people who go into farm equipment work have grown up with mechanical repair—they have experimented with repairing lawn mowers, old cars, and other machinery, and they have used a lot of farm equipment. If you do not live on a farm, you may be able to find part-time or summer work on a farm. You can also get valuable mechanical experience working at a gasoline service station that has a repair department, automobile repair shop, or automotive supply house. Attending farm shows is a good way to learn about farm equipment and manufacturers. At shows, you may have the opportunity to talk to equipment manufacturers' representatives and learn more about new developments in the industry. In addition, consider joining a chapter of the National FFA Organization. This organization is open to students aged 12 to 21 who are enrolled in agricultural programs. It offers a wide variety of activities, including career-development programs.

Talk with farm equipment mechanic about his or her career. Ask your school counselor to help arrange an interview. Suggested interview questions include: What made you want to enter this career? What type of tools and equipment do you use to do your work? What do you like most and least about your job? How did you train for this field? What are some key skills for success? What advice would you give to young people about preparing for the field and being successful on the job? How will advances in technology change the field? Perhaps you could even job-shadow a farm equipment mechanic to learn even more about the field.