Automotive technology is rapidly evolving, and electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids are becoming increasingly popular. To shed some light on this exciting shift, we spoke with Matt Zimmerman, a long-term leader in the field of car maintenance and a certified electric vehicle technician.
In this series, Matt will share his expert opinion on electric cars and hybrid vehicles, highlighting what it's like to work in the industry, common myths about these vehicles, and how electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance differs from that of standard gas.
For now, get to know Matt, as he details his journey into the industry and offers invaluable advice for aspiring automotive technicians.
Who is Matt Zimmerman?
Matt’s journey into the auto industry began early. His father, who was a heavy diesel mechanic, dedicated 40 years to the trade. Although Matt was drawn to the automotive world, he wasn’t interested in working on heavy diesel equipment. So, he decided to take a different path and landed on light-duty automotive work instead—a powerful decision that has led to over 15 years of experience and success in the industry.
Matt's passion for cars led him to work his first vehicle maintenance job during his senior year of high school. After graduation, the desire to gain more experience in the industry led him to interview for the general service technician position at Firestone Complete Auto Care, where his brother had worked for years. Matt got the job and has been on the team ever since!
Matt's Journey Through the Automotive Industry
Matt grew to become a household name at Firestone Complete Auto Care, and he credits much of his earlier education to the lead technicians who took him under their wing and taught him much of what they knew.
Course-wise, Matt was selected for the 301 Engine Management Strategy Advanced Diagnostic course in Colorado around 2010—a program that was pivotal in furthering his training. He later went on to achieve ASE Master Certified status and also became an ASE L1 - Advanced Engine Performance Specialist. Now, he's worked on electric and hybrid vehicles for nearly seven years as a lead technician, mentoring and keeping an eye out for more learning opportunities as the industry continues to evolve.
What Matt Enjoys Most About Working on EVs and Hybrids
While Matt doesn't mind getting his hands dirty, he does enjoy the cleaner under-the-hood experience of servicing EVs and Hybrids. There's less oil and grease to navigate, and it's a completely different experience than working on internal combustion engines (ICEs).
Beyond cleanliness, Matt finds the challenge of constantly evolving EV and hybrid technology exciting. While many of the basic maintenance services are similar to standard vehicles, there are some nuances he looks forward to navigating, such as high-voltage system care and cooling system maintenance.
"You're doing something different every day. It's never the same thing, and [EV/Hybrid work] keeps you on your toes."
Additionally, servicing these vehicles involves less risk, says Matt. Thanks to fewer complicated parts like hydraulic clutches, fans, or pumps, they're a lot safer to work on. While electric and hybrid cars do come with their own precautions, like high-voltage battery packs, a little training can go a long way.
Matt's Advice for Aspiring Automotive Technicians
16 years ago, Matt would never have guessed he'd be in the position he's in today. He thought he needed tons of formal training and expensive schooling to achieve what he has so far, but that's not the case. According to Matt, hands-on experience is invaluable.
For those interested in a career in automotive technology, his advice is pretty straightforward: Try working for a place like Firestone as a general service technician. Once you've tried it on for size, you'll know if it's truly the kind of work you enjoy. "If you're like me,” he says, “you're either gonna like working on cars or you're not gonna like working on cars.”
"There's some great satisfaction of a car coming in on a wrecker that isn't running, and then, by the end of the day, you're watching that customer get in their car and drive away. There's no feeling quite like it."
Once you know for certain that the automotive industry is your calling, Matt recommends keeping an open mind and showcasing your drive and ambition. "Help your lead tech out as much as you can. If your lead technician sees your drive and will to learn, they're likely going to be more willing to take you under their wing and teach you the things they know."
Matt also emphasizes that there's something for everyone when it comes to specialization. Diagnostics, for example, isn't everyone's cup of tea. Fortunately, you can specialize in steering and suspension, brakes, heating and cooling systems, and more. "There are so many different areas, but having the ability and the opportunity to move up in this kind of industry is great."
Interested in Specializing in EV and Hybrid Care? Matt Has Some Tips
General technician roles cover routine services, including oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations. However, specializing in EVs and hybrids opens doors to new opportunities and may require additional training.
While general services like drain and fills are pretty straightforward, higher hybrid and electric vehicle technician training is a non-negotiable when engaging with the high-voltage system. That's why Matt stresses high-voltage safety and training when breaking out into this specialization: "Knowing how to power down the system, find the information so you can power down the system, and verify that the system is powered down," is essential. Matt warns that until you understand how the high-voltage system works, "no one should be working on a vehicle that has one."
Beyond this training, Matt highlights that because general services are not as complicated on an EV or hybrid vehicle, EV and hybrid vehicle technician training is often not as extensive as one might think. "For this type of maintenance, the biggest thing a technician needs to learn is service procedures." However, for someone who wants to learn the theory behind these vehicles, furthering their education through training could be beneficial and make the job more interesting.
EV and Hybrid Car Care at Firestone Complete Auto Care
Stay tuned for more insight into EV and Hybrid car care. During our interview, Matt covered a lot of ground—from common EV and hybrid myths to what it's like as a technician working on these vehicles. In the meantime, if you’re ready to give your EV or hybrid the care it deserves, swing by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Knowledgeable technicians, like Matt, are ready to help keep your vehicle running smoothly, for longer.
Interested in becoming an automotive technician at Firestone Complete Auto Care? Check out our careers page for available positions in your area, and steer your future towards a remarkable career.
