Training for a career that is virtually recession-proof and a sure way to have an income, may seem like a dream. Locksmith training can make that dream come true. As long as people lock themselves out of their cars or homes or lose keys, you will have work to do and an income.
You can go into business for yourself or work as an apprentice with a certified locksmith to gain your experience. Locksmith training is readily available either in class or online. There are schools that offer financial aid and flexible hours.
If you are planning to start your own business be sure that the school or course that you choose provides the necessary programs to help make your business a success. Training including how to create your business plan and sell your service is vitally important. Customer service, advertising and day to day operations will contribute to the steps to make your new business a success.
There are programs that specialize in specific areas of this career. These are important if you are planning to specialize in a specific area or if you desire a well rounded educational experience. Automotive locksmith training is very lucrative. You can count on a national average of $95 to replace a key for an automobile. Keys with transporters average twice that amount.
Big businesses often need maintenance locksmiths. There are a variety of reasons that you may want to pursue a certificate in either sending a maintenance person to school or attending a locksmith training program that is aimed at this area of the business. Locksmith training for maintenance will include security as well as general lost key issues. Often a business will want to rekey a lock for additional security when an employee leaves. You will have this training with this type of education.
Along with the training, you will need good quality locksmith tools. With the local locksmith shop becoming a thing of the past, it is important to be sure you have the right tools for the specialized areas that you have chosen. Today there is an assortment of specialty tools as well as hand tools and power tools. It is better for the upcoming locksmith to buy high quality tools a few at a time, than to invest in less expensive and less reliable tools that you may find. You should also have adequate storage for the variety of tools that you will be needing. It won’t be necessary to take all of your tools with you every time you are called for a job.
If you are new to the trade, you will need an assortment of locks. Many types of locks can be found in hardware stores, at yard sales and salvage yards. By dismantling locks and putting them back together, you will gain needed experience.
Some of the duties of a locksmith are the repair, installation and maintenance of a variety of locks, doors and security systems. You will need to learn to pick locks with tools or by dismantling. Periodic maintenance and card systems also fall under your realm of responsibility. The use of key cutting machines, drills, and other tools are also part of the job.