I'm a college graduate w/ a technical degree and have had shitty luck with my last few jobs. It seems as if this isnt the field to be in anymore seing that most companies contract out for technical positions and when they no longer have a high demand they just cut your job and your the one that gets screwed. This happened to me a before last x-mass and although I found another job with in 2 weks at what I thought would be a good company, it happened again today. Nothing I did, they just didnt need my anymore me anymore so myself and 5 other techs got the boot.
I've mentioned before to my wife that I wish I would have decided to enrole in mechanics classes at the local community college after H.S. instead of wasting money on a technical college and after today she and myself both are thinking it's time for another field.
My only concern is that I wont be able to support us finacially but I have no idea what motorcycle mechanics make. Can anyone tell me what I could expect to make as a begineer coming into the field and also once i a couple years experience under my belt?
Sorry for the novel, I just want you guys to see where I'm coming from and why I'm asking this.

Thanks, Eric.

Here is a link to a previous discussion about someone wanting to go to MMI. Might give you some info.

http://xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/showthread.php?t=50872

Just been there, read that, starting out doesn't pay.

LOL - The Marines are always looking for a few good men.

You can see the world on the governments dime, be a mechanic, and stay in shape to boot.

most companies contract out for technical positions and when they no longer have a high demand they just cut your job and your the one that gets screwed.

Eric,

Unfortunately, many companies are resorting to this type of staffing. I work in the aerospace industry and the writing is on the wall that our jobs aren't as "specialized" as we believe they are. I am fortunate because I have been here for a while, but I could not live on an entry level job and I don't have any kids...
If I were starting out, and I may have to resort to this sometime in the future, I would find a niche and start my own business. That is where the money is. I think if you are good working with bikes, check out the demand for onsite service and repair. I think this would be something I would pursue because I don't see anyone doing it yet. Just think about how long the shop takes to do a scheduled service, that is time without the bike.

Good luck...

Ask some dealers in your area what they pay entry level mechanics. Unless you're willing to relocate, that's all that matters, what the jobs pay in your area.

--Chris