Hello again! Welcome to another instalment of Career Walk. This week, we will be looking at the relatively new, yet relevant, profession of an auto body painter.

The name of the profession pretty much says it all, and it sounds pretty cool for those who have an interest in cars as well as art. Here is a formal definition: an auto body painter, also known as a car painting professional, uses special chemicals and power tools to paint vehicles. Before, this job was carried out by auto mechanics who would do preparatory and maintenance work on vehicles. However, the art of automotive painting has taken on a whole new category.

Automotive art painting involves knowing the different paint applications that are specifically used on vehicles, paint tinting and other detailing done on vehicles.

Car painting professionals usually learn the art of car painting on the job. However, in recent times, some vocational schools are offering courses as part of automotive repair or auto body paint programmes.

The Caribbean Maritime Institute, in a joint effort with the University of Technology, launched an automotive and marine vehicle repairs and painting course last year. This year, 14 students graduated from the programme, leaving with skill certification in automotive and marine vehicle repairs and painting. This is definitely something to check out if you are interested.

This profession falls under a popular industry in Jamaica: automotive services. This is another area that might not fall within the traditional professions, but the job market is certainly wide open for it.

Until next time, all the best in choosing the career just for you.