Opinions on Trade Schools?

[UlrichFennec]

So, I've settled on the career field I want to work in. I want to be an automotive technician! Since I've always loved cars and have been curious enough to break them down and work on them myself, I figured it'd be the right field to go in.

I'll be attending an Intellitec Automotive Trade School with all sorts of cool stuff. Thanks to the G.I. Bill that my father transferred over to me, I don't pay a dime aaand I get paid a nice check every month for passing and attending my courses. I also get a nice toolbox with all sorts of Snap-On tools that I get to keep! Lots of hands-on learning.

That brings me to my question:

Have any of you attended any trade schools, and could I get some advice on what steps I can take to help me ace my courses?

[flyboyx]

i (and most people here) won't recommend your choice of career paths. there are several threads about this subject here already. i would suggest you read them over. if it still sounds like the way you want to go, my only response is that i wish you good luck in your pursuits and i hope it works out well for you.

[meanEG]

ok. I went to UTI in Chicago. now that money doesnt matter because its all covered, that is a huge relief. My opinion is that alot of the schools are great. i think you get out of it what you put into it. usually the instructors are awesome because they want to be there. take advantage of the 50-55% discount off of Snap-On tools. i suggest getting tools over a box. Box will come later after you know you like your new career.

UTI offered a specialized manufacturers school afterwards. i doubt yours will, but if they do take advantage of it. i started at $15 hour guaranteed back in 2001 at a vw dealer. $17 hour in 2003 and then 18 flat rate soon after. i was making $75,000 year at 21 years old and it was great. Finished my carrer at the dealers in 2006/2007 at about $23 and hour, but i had training incentives. I then left the dealer for "creative differences" and it was a slippery slope from then on.

My point is that you can make serious money, but you need 3 things. Skill is number one. make yourself irreplaceable. you need to find a busy dealer. without work you wont make any money once you are flate rate. and finally you need to have a good boss/foreman. if the guy that hands out the work doesnt like you you will get fucked on jobs, all the time.