Move On Up With Automotive Training?

Answer 1

Automotive mechanic training is available from several educational institutions. Both large and small communities have automotive mechanic training programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for mechanics is not as good as it is for some other occupations. Job growth is expected to increase by only 5 percent through 2018, which is slower than average for all occupations. Those with postsecondary education in automotive mechanics stand the best chance of getting a job and earning good wages.

Start in High School

Many high schools offer introductory auto mechanic courses to their students. Although these classes are typically not enough to get a student a job after high school graduation, they do provide at least some basic courses and knowledge needed to succeed in an automotive training program at the postsecondary level. Some high school training programs, however, are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence through the Automotive Youth Education Service. Students graduating from these programs can get entry-level technician jobs after graduation.

Get Training in College

You can also get postsecondary automotive mechanic training from vocational, community and technical colleges. These programs offer hands-on experience that high schools usually cannot offer. Students in these programs earn certificates, and some earn two-year associate degrees. If they earn associate degrees, they also take courses that may be seemingly unrelated to auto mechanics like English and history. However, the math and science courses are helpful courses to have as a mechanic, and the English courses can provide training on writing reports for customers and employers.

Student who would like to own their own shops or who just want extra auto mechanic training might opt for a four-year automotive maintenance degree. This degree offers business and marketing courses in addition to mechanics courses.

Professional development is another way to get automotive mechanic training. Mechanics receive training on the job for working with specific vehicle systems, makes and models of vehicles, and on certain types of engines. They can, for example, earn Automotive Service Excellence certifications in different vehicle systems, which are some of the most prestigious in field of auto mechanics.