Before you take any steps to become an automotive trimmer, it is a good idea to learn as much as possible about the job so you can ensure that this is the right career for you. The automotive trimmer is responsible for installing or repairing upholstery in automobiles, and the job requires manual dexterity as well as an ability to work under difficult time constraints. To become an automotive trimmer, you will need to either complete a high school education or be working toward completion of a high school education.
Basic math skills as well as communication skills will also be necessary to become an automotive trimmer, as you will likely work as part of a team and will be required to measure fabric or other materials. Most of the skills you will need for this position can be learned through job training, which employers will provide to you after hire. You will start in a low level position if you want to become an automotive trimmer, and you will likely start out as an assistant of some sort. This is a good opportunity to learn many of the basic skills necessary to become an automotive trimmer in the industry.
Some companies will require you to undergo an apprenticeship program. This program allows you to learn all the necessary skills and obtain the required certifications to become a journeyman trimmer, though you will need to be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time to your training. An apprentice will remain in the apprenticeship position for up to four years, at which time he or she will attempt to pass certification exams to become a journeyman. You will get paid to be an apprentice, but the pay will be lower than that of a full-time journeyman, and you may or may not be offered health and retirement benefits.
Taking part in any job or training that will help you develop the skills necessary to become an automotive trimmer is a good idea. Shop classes in high school, for example, may give you some of the basic training you will need down the line, and you will be able to work on developing manual dexterity in such classes. Learning about various fabrics and upholstering techniques is also a good idea, as such knowledge will generally make you a more valuable job candidate for a position as a trimmer.
