Beyond the Garage: Mechanic Schools

by Robyn Tellefsen
If you want to be a run-of-the-mill automotive technician, you can probably pick up some vocational tips at your uncle's garage. But if you want to be a top-notch automotive tech, you'll also need formal training from mechanic schools.

After all, mechanic schools are the perfect place to go for job-skill training, since these schools were created in direct response to employer needs. Mechanic schools have to keep up with the latest technology, offering a variety of programs that provide in-demand career training opportunities.

Mechanic schools offer a wide range of hands-on automotive training programs to help you advance directly into the automotive service industry. Automotive training programs may include advanced auto/diesel; advanced diagnostics; aeronautical maintenance technology; aircraft mechanics; automotive technology; chassis fabrication and high-performance engines; collision/refinishing technology; diesel technology; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning; motorcycle technology; street rod and custom fabrication; trim and upholstery; and more.

Some mechanic schools also provide opportunities for manufacturer-specific advanced automotive training--think Audi, BMW, Ford, International Truck, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota, Volvo, and VW, to name a few. Manufacturer-specific training allows you to specialize and increases your marketability as an automotive tech.

Mechanic schools may be accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology, which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency. It's also important that the automotive service program you're considering be a National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Certified provider of technical career training. ASE improves the quality of vehicle repair and service through the testing and certification of repair and service professionals. More than 40 ASE certification exams are available, with specialties for automobile, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus, and collision repair technicians, as well as engine machinists, alternate fuels technicians, parts specialists, auto service consultants, and collision damage estimators.

Ultimately, mechanic schools can guide you on a quicker path to career success. Offering specialized, career-focused training, they can help you hone the technical skills you need to achieve career success. Plus, mechanic schools are committed to helping you reach your goals. Support services such as course tutoring, academic counseling, and job-placement assistance are benefits you just won't get at your uncle's garage. Formal training from mechanic schools provides the support you need to succeed in your automotive service career.

If you're ready to get started in the automotive service industry, choose from one of the top-of-the-line mechanic schools near you.



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