In a world dominated by AI and computer technology, it may be hard to fathom a career as a locksmith. No matter how advanced the world becomes, someone who can simply open locks will still be imperative.
Being a locksmith isn’t just about being someone who can duplicate keys.
After all, anyone can do that at a local hardware store nowadays. Locksmiths need old-school, traditional lock-opening skills alongside new-age biometrics and smart security to solve customers’ lockout problems.
Not only do you become a master craftsman who can fix mechanical issues, but you can also become a hero who saves the day when people are locked out at 3 am in the morning. If that type of career path invigorates you, here are some simple steps to becoming a locksmith.
Pros and Cons of Being a Locksmith
Before discovering the simple path to becoming a locksmith, it is a good idea to understand the pros and cons. One important factor, which may be a pro or a con, is that upon becoming a locksmith in Michigan, you can make, on average, $34K up to $80K per year, depending on your level of skill. Self-employed locksmiths may earn over $100K per year. Here are some other pros and cons.
Pros
● High job security.
● Variety in daily work.
● Low barrier to entry, often becoming a locksmith within months.
● Potential for self-employment.
Cons
● Irregular hours, often having to be on call for customers.
● Physically and mentally demanding, often exposed to extreme weather, cramped spaces, and upset customers.
● Exposure to liability claims.
● Constant need to stay up to date and knowledgeable in the trade.
Discover Licensing Requirements
One of the first steps you’ll want to take to become a locksmith in Michigan is to find out the requirements. You can start by going to the Locksmith Security Association of Michigan website.
Obtain Formal Education
While some locksmiths are self-taught, another pathway into the profession is to acquire formal education. There are online courses and in-person courses available to help you learn more about the profession.
Get an Apprenticeship
Another great way to start a career as a locksmith is to train with a master locksmith. Real-world experience can go much further than simple textbook training. It will help you learn “tricks of the trade” you won’t learn in a classroom.
Obtain Professional-Grade Tools
Once you become a locksmith, you’ll need to use the most state-of-the-art equipment available to help customers. This will require upgrading your basic toolkit with items such as pick sets, key-cutting machines, re-keying machines, and diagnostic tools.
Specialize
If you want to improve your chances of getting better clients and making more money, you’ll have to specialize. New locksmiths may want to specialize in these 4 high-demand areas: automotive, commercial, safe-cracking, and electronic access.
Get Certification
Whether you want to work for a firm or start your own business, one way to distinguish yourself is by getting certification. Nationally or locally recognized organizations can help validate your expertise. Getting a certification from the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) can ensure that you remain competitive in the locksmith profession. Having this certification can help you earn more, stand out from the competition, and gain instant credibility.
Join a Firm or Start a Business
After getting formal training and potentially getting certifications, it is time to decide whether you want to work for a well-established company or start a business of your own. Starting a business will allow you the flexibility that a job won’t. However, you’ll be responsible for wearing all the hats, which include marketing, customer service, filing your own taxes, and a myriad of other things associated with being a business owner.
Locksmith Services Throughout Southeast Michigan
If you need dependable locksmith services for your home, business, or vehicle, Action Locksmith Inc. is here to help. As a family-owned company serving Southeast Michigan for more than 35 years, we are proud to provide trusted locksmith solutions backed by experience, responsive service, and attention to detail.