Locksmith Lock-Out Specialist Training
People who enjoy performing home maintenance or working with intricate tools and equipment can choose to become locksmiths. One of the primary duties of locksmiths is to help people who have been locked out of their homes, businesses or automobiles. These lock-out specialists train to pick, break and troubleshoot different locks, as well as create and duplicate keys. Training for locksmith lock-out specialists is available in the form of certificate programs, apprenticeships, self-paced training or professional certification.
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Certificate Programs
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Aspiring locksmith lock-out specialists can opt to enroll in formal training at local community and junior colleges. These programs typically last between one and two years, depending on students' schedules and academic goals. For example, the locksmithing program offered at Prince George's Community College in Maryland consists of five courses covering classroom instruction and lab work. Students receive a certificate of completion after the program and can pursue careers in lock shops or organizations, or can even start their own companies. Program curricula for certificate programs cover topics including repair methods for locks, machine and computer technologies used in the industry, commercial and institutional locksmithing, and key duplication and impressioning.
Apprenticeships
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Similar to other trades, locksmith lock-out specialists also receive training as apprentices. Trainees must possess a high school or GED diploma to participate. The length of locksmithing apprenticeships vary depending on state licensing and employer requirements. All apprentices observe senior-level workers and perform basic lock-picking and key-making duties. Trainees function as assistants and learn how to work with master key systems, as well as how to operate locksmithing tools such as cutting machines.
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Professional Certification
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Locksmiths looking to distinguish themselves from competition can seek professional certification with associations such as the Associated Locksmiths of America. The association offers various education and training courses on changing trends and developments in the locksmithing industry. Professionals can also enroll in classroom and online courses that cover topics such including security technology, basic electricity and electronics, alternative entry techniques, and combination lock manipulation. Locksmiths can also choose from over 100 classes offered at the annual Associated Locksmiths of America convention, as well as seminars hosted in local locations throughout the year.
Self-Paced Training
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Professionals who already possess locksmithing experience or wish to pick up additional skills before enrolling in formal training can purchase training software or participate in online training. Some companies specialize in selling DVD programs that include self-paced instruction and demonstrations on lock picking, and on using locksmithing tools and equipment. Other companies sell training on common procedures used in the locksmithing industry, as well as advice on business start-up and advertising strategies for lockout specialists businesses. For example, participants who purchase the Professional Lockout Training Program receive a professional lock-pick set, exercises, and practice materials with their training courses.
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