Creed Crockett is a rookie automotive technician in Denton, Texas. He offers his “two cents” on what he's learning, and what he hopes an employer can offer to young technicians as they look to the future.
Motor Age is partnering with TechForce Foundation to share profiles and perspectives of young automotive technicians who are in the early days of their careers.
"I am very new to this field. As I was looking for a "grunt" job, I lucked out and was hired at a dealership as an assistant to a master mechanic. I thought I would just be changing oil, but instead, I find myself working with a master mechanic named Kyle. He is a great mentor, and I am learning so much. I feel blessed to have landed this job.
"I think if the industry had a paid mentorship program for auto/diesel tech students, it would benefit both the students and the mentors. To quote my mom, “You never know anything as fully as you do when you have taught it to someone else.”
"Looking to the future, I am excited to learn more about EVs and advanced diagnostic technology. I think it’s important that shops invest in these to keep up with evolving technologies.
"My dad has been the most influential person in my journey as a tech. I have always known him to be a hard worker, and I aspire to have a career like his.
"When he was younger, my dad was an HVAC technician. He is now a senior manager at the same company where he has worked since he was in his early 20s. I like that the company supported him as he learned the trade and later promoted him to field supervisor, then to manager, and finally to senior manager.
"I also appreciate how the company cares for their employees. That’s important to me. The company has worked hard to have good health and retirement benefits, and to make sure employees are successful, independent people who can provide for their families. I hope to work for a company that cares for its employees and promotes them up through the ranks like my dad's company does."
