There is a program down here in Miami where the offer NATEF certification classes over a 20 month period, with the possibility of college credit towards an A.S. in science. The classes cost $625 each trimester, so I figure about 7 classes in total = $4375 for the certification. Perhaps $4375 and 20 months time is a bargain for a trade that could provide a living but how marketable is a NATEF certification? I've seen plenty businesses that have ASE certified mechs? But I don't recall any Businesses that advertise NATEF. My goal is not change oil at the local dealership, its to be able to make an ordinary car perform better than it was designed to. But I figure having a respected certification will help me get my foot in the door with a shop where I can do something creative. I'm not looking for help guiding my life decisions, so don't misunderstand, in my current line of work my future is secure, but I thought I might like to look into automotive mechanics which is becoming a passion for me. Any thoughts?