so... i want to be an installer. I've gone to a few shops asking about how to get started. One thing I've been told is that you need to be MOT certified to be insurable, and no one wants you in a garage without that. I've been in touch with Algonquin College, and they don't know anything about any kind of course related to that, even though at one shop the head installer has a certificate on the wall from algonquin showing he completed a course there (Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician)
Then there's the issue of no one wants you without experience, but how do you get that? Store owner/managers pretty much laugh at you when you say you've done installs on your, but you need to start somewhere... not a clue where that would be though, and I'm having trouble figuring it out. If anyone could point me in the right direction, it would be greatly appreciated.

Troy.

[ June 23, 2004, 01:18 AM: Message edited by: leg0man ]

 

In Toronto is Mobile Dynamics.. I got started but knowing someone they eventiually I got my foot in the door and worked up from there.. Use you contacts if you know anyone in the industry..

 

Another suggestion, once you have the certification, apply at other places that utilize needing that certification, such as aftermarket accessorie stores that install car alarms etc etc, you can gain your experience that way aswell.

 

I was fortunate and was "grandfathered" into the new system.. that is to say I had the hours/years of XP to bypass the schooling aspect of certification..from my understanding to work on a vehicles ignition system in Ont. (alarm/starter)you must have past the test "grandfathered" or schooled (@M.D. -how convnient for them..)or work at a shop that has at least one certified installer per 4 employed...so if you were told that you are unemployable is not true ...though certification might be preferable to them... fight for your right tooooooo INNNNSTALL...!

 

I still say take a basic electronics course about DC and AC theory, before taking the Mobile Dynamics or MECP study guide book (which I also sell) .

 

thanks for the responses guys.

Eli47: I've done 2 years of Electrical Engineering at University of Ottawa, I've got a pretty decent understanding of that stuff. I just decided it wasn't for me as far as a career goes, a little too in depth. I don't want to design products, I want to use them.

 

Thanks for the heads up on your Electrical certification, that's a very big bonus for any employer.
A small portfolio of your workmanship if you don't already have one, should seal an opportunity to be hired, with your knowledge and enthusiasm.
Feel like moving out west?
Got an opening at www.speakercity.ca

 

I don't think you need any experience to work at Best Buy...

[ June 24, 2004, 11:19 PM: Message edited by: Westec ]

 

ygpm, Eli47