Free Blue Collar and Proud of It: The All-In-One Resource for Finding Freedom, Financial Success, and Security Outside the Cubicle by Joe Lamacchia, Bridget Samburg Page A

repair andmain-tain these pieces of equipment.They work on engines, hydraulic systems, transmissions, and electrical systems. Farm machinery, cranes, bulldozers, and railcars are also considered heavy equipment and require specialized technicians and operators.
    Technicians have to be able to run diagnostic tests on the computer components of these machines and discern what is broken and how it should be repaired.Handheld tools are used in repairs, as are computers. Advances in technology mean that computers are responsible for operating at least some components of the machines, so technicians must have a thorough knowledge of codes and the skills to fix electrical malfunctions, as well as be able to use standard hand tools, grinding machines, flame-cutting equipment, andmore. It is common for technicians in large shops to specialize in one or two types of repair, such as engines, transmission work, electrical systems, or suspension systems. Technicians in smaller operations typically perform multiple functions. Techniciansmay also specialize in types of equipment, focusing only on bulldozers, cranes, or excavators, for example.
    Work Setting
    Repair work on heavy vehicles is often done indoors, and service technicians are usually required to lift heavy (and sometimes greasy) parts and tools. Minor cuts, burns, and bruises are common, but serious accidents are typically avoided thanks to safety regulations.Technicians usu-allywork inwell-lit, ventilated areas, andmany employers provide shower facilities and locker rooms when necessary. Technicians tend to find the most jobs working for large construction companies, equipment wholesalers, or government entities.
    Training and Certification
    Although industry experts recommend a formal diesel or heavy equipment mechanic training program after high school, many people receive training on the job. Employers tend to look for people with mechanical aptitudewho are knowledgeable about engines, electrical systems, computers, and hydraulics. High school courses in automobile repair, physics, chemistry, and mathematics provide a great foundation for getting into this line of work. When it comes to education, those who have formal postsecondary training in heavy vehicle and mobile equipment have a major advantage over those who do not.
    Many employers will send their technicians to training sessions run by heavy equipmentmanufacturers, which often provide intensive instruction on a specific type of machinery. Industry certification can help workers advance faster.Certification fromtheNational Institute forAutomotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the recognized industry credential for heavy vehicle andmobile equipment service technicians.Certification is available for what is called master of medium or heavy truck technicians as well as in repair specialties such as brakes, electrical systems, or suspension and steering. Techniciansmust pass awritten examination and have at least two years of experience to earn this certification.
    The Numbers
    Heavy vehicle technicians and mechanics held about 188, 000 jobs in 2006. Approximately 131, 000 of those were mobile heavy equipment mechanics, 31, 000 were farm equipment mechanics, and 27, 000 were railcar repairers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this area is expected to grow by about 10 percent through 2016 with the addition of more than 35, 000 jobs.
    Median hourly earnings formobile heavy equipmentmechanics were $19.44 in May 2006. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $12.64 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $28.18. About 23 percent of people in this industry are union members.
    CONSTRUCTION: LABORER
    The Work
    When it comes to working at a construction site, most laborers learn on the job, but formal apprenticeship programs do exist and can provide the most thorough preparation. Laborers who have specialized skills or are willing to relocate close to new construction projects will have an advantage over