You will need to spend several years in a particular industry developing your skills both as a tradesman and as a manager or team leader if you want to become a mechanical supervisor. During these years, you will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in the field, and you will learn as much as possible about mechanical processes, repair, maintenance, and team management. Senior members of a team are most likely to become mechanical supervisors, and if you intend to become one yourself, you will need to develop a good rapport with coworkers and managers.
Depending on the industry in which you work, you may need to earn certain certificates or licenses to become a mechanical supervisor. The requirements can vary by industry or region, so it is best to ask your superiors about the various requirements you will need to fulfill in order to become a mechanical supervisor in the future. In some cases, your employer will pay for your training and certification if he or she chooses to promote you to supervisor, though in other instances, you may need to pay for such certification out of pocket. Often, the certifications need to be renewed throughout the course of your career.
The educational requirements can vary from industry to industry; in some cases, you may need a college education in order to become a mechanical supervisor, while in others, you may be able to get promoted to a supervisory position with only a high school education. Basic math, reading, and communications skills are almost always required, as are basic computer skills. The most important qualifications stem from your experience in the field, however, and an employee who learns the industry thoroughly and works hard for a company is likely to get promoted to a supervisory position.
You may need to undergo supervisor's training or managerial training in order to be considered to become a mechanical supervisor. Your employer might provide such training, or he or she might require you to attend classes at a local community college or training facility. Such training will help you develop better managerial skills that will be necessary when managing a team of employees. Developing a strong rapport with coworkers and managers is very important, since you may be required to do hiring and firing of employees as a supervisor. You may also be required to handle some payroll procedures, which means your math skills should be fairly strong.
