How to Start a Career as a Military Mechanic?

I'm really into cars and machines, and I'm considering becoming a mechanic in the military. How do I start this career after high school? What are the training requirements and the future scope in this field?

To start a career as a military mechanic after high school, you'll first need to enlist in the military. This process involves meeting with a recruitment officer to discuss your suitability for the military, taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, and passing a medical examination.

Each branch of the military—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force—have positions for mechanics. The exact training and job descriptions can vary between branches, but in general, you can expect a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

For example, in the U.S. Army, wheeled vehicle mechanics go through One Station Unit Training (OSUT), which combines Basic Training and job training into one single course. The training lasts for 19 weeks and provides instruction and practice in repairing and maintaining vehicles and vehicle systems.

As for future scope, military mechanics have numerous opportunities for advancement and specialization. For example, you might elect to specialize in mission-specific vehicles, become an instructor, or even apply to be a warrant officer. Being a mechanic in the military can also offer an excellent transition into civilian life, as the skills and certifications you acquire are highly transferable to civilian mechanic jobs.

Moreover, while you're serving, some military branches may help you gain additional certifications through programs like the Army's Credentialing Assistance Program, which can further improve your qualifications and employment prospects.

Keep in mind that a career in the military requires a commitment to service and a readiness to meet high physical and mental standards. It's essential to thoroughly research and consider what life in the military would entail, and talk to as many people as possible in the service to get a realistic picture of what's involved.