Would you like to work in auto repair but don’t have time for the training to become a mechanic? If that’s the case, you may want to consider becoming an auto glass technician.
Auto glass technicians repair and install window glass and windshields, including dealing with any advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) mounted to the glass. They might also be called upon to weatherproof the installations as well. These technicians may work in repair shops or travel to customers’ locations to do the work. To get a better idea of what performing the duties of this job is like, check out this brief video on the CareerOneStop website.
Although this essential job exists across the U.S., according to the Dept. Of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas, Florida, California, Arizona and Louisiana have the highest number of automotive glass installers and repairers. But there’s always a need for more.
Auto glass technician’s education and skills
Although education-wise auto glass technicians only need a high school diploma or equivalent, certain skills are required to be able to do this job well. First of all, they must be able to deal effectively with customers by listening to their concerns and politely answering their questions. People who do this type of work need to pay attention to detail so they don’t miss any potential damage to the glass. They also need to know how to use the proper tools and techniques to repair that damage. In addition, auto glass technicians must be able to manage time reasonably effectively, so the job can be completed as soon as possible. Adequate coordination is required for holding the glass steady and using the tools necessary for installation and repairs.
How to get a job as an auto glass technician
Although many community colleges and trade and technical schools offer collision repair technology programs that may include glass repair, it’s not necessary to go through such an extensive program, unless you are interested in learning auto body repair as well.
Instead, you may want to consider one of these specialized courses:
Auto Glass Academy – The Auto Glass Academy is the training division of Equalizer, the leading supplier of auto glass tools. The five-day course, which includes four days of hands-on training, is offered monthly at the company’s headquarters in Round Rock, Texas. The cost is $1,995, and those who finish the course receive a certificate of completion and an opportunity to take the Auto Glass Safety Council AGSC Exam for AGRSS (Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard).
Auto Glass Technical Institute – The Auto Glass Technical Institute offers five-day courses in its facility in Atascadero, Calif. The cost is $1,495, and upon graduation participants have the opportunity to take the Auto Glass Safety Council certification exam.
Auto Glass University – Although Auto Glass University offers courses in locations around the country, for the second half of 2023, they only take place in Madison, Wis., and Huntersville, N.C. The hands-on course lasts five days, and the tuition depends on how many students are enrolled. Graduates receive a certificate of completion, and the Auto Glass Safety Council certification exam fee is included in the cost of the course.
Paid training opportunities
If you don’t want to pay for a course and would prefer to get paid while you’re learning, there are possibilities to do just that. Safelite AutoGlass, a nationwide provider of auto glass repair services, offers paid training opportunities at many of its more than 7,100 mobile glass shops and repair facilities nationwide. Just search the internet using “Safelite auto glass technician trainee” and your location to find an opportunity in your area. Safelite is definitely the largest company, but since it only has about 20% of the total business there should be other auto glass businesses to explore and consider. And you can find a list of companies on the Auto Glass Safety Council website.
