Automotive mechanics school classes are usually offered at technical or trade colleges that specialize in teaching students working job skills. These programs are designed to train students to become automotive mechanics. These schools may be privately owned or part of the public school system. Students are typically able to receive federal student financial aid and grants in order to pay for the classes they attend.
As automobiles have become increasingly sophisticated, mechanics have been required to learn more and more skills in order to properly work on the new vehicles. Auto mechanics schools teach their students the information they will need to learn in order to work on modern vehicles. Upon completing programs, students will be prepared to work in the automotive industry and will have an edge over competitors or co-workers who have not received formal training.
The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence is the primary association that trains and certifies competent and properly educated automobile mechanics. ASE certification is available to students who pass all certification tests. Completing an automobile mechanics course does not make a mechanic ASE certified; however, he should be completely prepared to take and pass his certification tests upon completing the school program.
School curriculum may vary, but most schools offer short and long programs, depending on the amount of classes the student wants to take and the level of certification they wish to achieve. Basic courses include how to perform routine maintenance and repairs while higher level classes focus on building and repairing engines and transmissions. Some schools also offer an auto body repair class or elective. Selecting the right program depends on the needs of the student. Some programs can be worked into regular high school or college curriculum or a full work schedule while others require full time attendance. Some schools, such as the Universal Technical Institute, work in cooperation with potential employers to train students to go directly into a specific job position or market.