Hi,

I've often wondered: How does one go about getting a job as a bike mechanic if one isn't already a bike mechanic; or how does one get one's foot in the door to learn to be a bike mechanic?

At the moment, I work a mind-numbing office gig, and it has occurred to me that I am not getting any younger (I'm 39) and I don't want to spend the remainder of my days miserable, bored, and loathing my job. I really would like to pursue something I'm interested in (dare I say, "passionate" about) irrespective of the pay. Having said that, I do enjoy building and working on my bikes and my friends bikes. I like troubleshooting, working with people, and tinkering with things (I used to be a carpenter in my 20's). And, it goes without saying, I really LOVE bikes...at times I have more fun taking them apart and putting them back together than actually riding them. Obviously I have ton, and TONS, more to learn to be a competent/fast mechanic, but I would love to have the opportunity to learn more...

Any suggestions on how to convince a bike shop owner that a pencil/paper-pusher has what it takes to work in a bike shop, even starting out as a cashier/clerk or salesperson?

Thanks.