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Do you have a passion for repairing cars and trucks? Why not turn that passion into a career? Learn about the various auto mechanic schools or colleges in North Carolina as well as what to expect in terms of education requirements and career options.
Auto mechanics in North Carolina generally have some sort of education in automotive technology. It’s important to find training programs at accredited schools as this is typically a requirement for certification. Automotive repair programs are usually found at community colleges or vocational schools and can take from six months to two years to complete depending on the type of program or the various areas of specialization the student pursues. Students will take a series of automotive classes and will also complete some hands-on training that may be in the form of an internship.
How to Get Certified in North Carolina
Auto mechanics in North Carolina may not be required by law to have a license or be certified. However, employers typically prefer to hire individuals who are certified and may require it as a condition of employment. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the organization that offers certifications most commonly used and acknowledged by automotive service centers.
ASE offers various types of certifications such as engine repair, engine performance, brakes, heating, and air conditioning, automatic transmissions, and electrical systems, among others.
Additionally, auto mechanics who will be handling refrigerants must be licensed, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Individuals must have at least two years of work experience or equivalent education and work before they can take the certification tests.
Salaries for Auto Mechanics in North Carolina
Salaries for auto mechanics in North Carolina can vary from $30,000 to more than $40,000 depending on the location. According to Salary.com, automotive mechanics in Hickory and Asheville earned $32,624 and $32,381 as of January 2015 while those working in Greensboro and Fayetteville earned $34,756 and $32,750 respectively. Generally, automotive technicians who have multiple certifications experience better wage opportunities.
Featured Program: Nascar Technical Institute
The regular auto mechanic program at UTI lasts 51 weeks and provides instruction on repairing, diagnosing and servicing both foreign and domestic vehicles. However, they also offer an intensified 15-week program that specializes in racing engines, pit crew techniques, welding, and fabrication, as well as aerodynamics. Each instructor has a plethora of Nascar experience and the students are also afforded the opportunity to practice designing engines that are put to use in actual races sanctioned by Nascar. What a cool opportunity, enroll today!
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