Survey Examines What Technicians Are Struggling With in the Workplace

A survey recently conducted by Wrenchway looks at what the biggest problems facing technicians in the industry currently are.

The 2023 Voice of Technician survey spoke with 650 technicians, students, and professionals in the automotive and diesel industries on how satisfied they are with their current position, what they look for in employers, and other industry issues.

One of the key takeaways from the survey was cited as low rates of satisfaction. When asked if they approve of their workplace’s compensation, training, and communication, most respondents were not impressed. Even in the most positively rated category, compensation, only 66% said they either slightly or strongly agreed that it was adequate, resulting in a third of technicians disagreeing.

The biggest obstacle technicians reported having was access to tools. Many technicians are forced to have to pour their own funds into equipment and tools, and for entry-level techs just beginning in the field, this can be particularly discouraging.

49% of technicians Wrenchway spoke to said that they have considered leaving the industry and pursuing a different career. Of that group, most were automotive technicians as opposed to diesel. Factors including inadequate pay, physical and mental strain, the cost of tools, poor management, and lack of respect were cited as reasons for technicians experiencing career strife.