Are you interested in machinery and how things work? Do you enjoy understanding technical concepts and working with your hands? If so, you may be considering a career as a mechanic and attending a mechanic school.
But you may be thinking beyond automotive mechanic school. While understanding the machinery that makes cars work can be a great entry-point into a mechanical career, there’s much more than meets the eye once you start training.
A mechanic’s skills are far-reaching. They perform vital services in communities as individuals, businesses, and schools all rely on different types of machines to meet daily and emergency needs. Consider a broader manufacturing and machining school training to provide these skills in your community.
There are multiple ways to learn all the complex mechanical concepts of fixing complicated machines, such as a manufacturing degree or certificate in areas like CNC machining, metrology, and manufacturing technology.
Let’s discuss what a mechanic school is and the various pathways candidates can take to become a mechanic.
What is Mechanic School?
Mechanic schools can be found in trade schools, the military, or career-focused colleges and universities. They offer the techniques, technology, and training to prepare students for a future in the mechanical and machining industry.
An automotive mechanic school, which you’re no doubt familiar with, is a career-focused institution that educates students on all things automotive, including vehicle inspection, repair, and maintenance. These schools offer courses in:
- Diesel service techniques
- Diagnostic software
- Electrical fundamentals
- Emissions systems
- Transmission diagnostics
- Alternative-fueled and hybrid vehicles
Some mechanic schools also include courses in business management, customer service, and billing, as well as areas of specialization in automotive repairs, including:
- Motorcycle
- Commercial/recreational vehicles
- Farm equipment
But for those who wish to expand their knowledge beyond the basic skills of automotive mechanics and develop a versatile skillset in machining and manufacturing, it’s important to find a program that also offers courses such as:
- Principles in Manufacturing Mathematics
- Technology in Advanced Manufacturing
- Warehouse and Distribution Management
- Transportation Traffic and Contract Management
These courses will offer opportunities beyond the automotive world into the broader world of machinery maintenance and manufacturing.
Do I Need a Degree to Work as a Mechanic?
While you do not need to earn a degree to find a job as a mechanic, it can help prove your qualifications to potential employers, set you apart from other applicants, and improve your chances at a higher salary.
Additionally, the more educated you are on the fundamentals of mechanics and manufacturing, the better you’ll be able to master new concepts when working on automobiles and other machinery.
Additional benefits from pursuing a degree or certificate include:
- Establishing career fundamentals. A mechanics or machinery program teaches the skills to support your career growth.
- Increased responsibility. Earning a postsecondary education will show you can take on more responsibilities at work and be capable of working on various mechanical tasks.
- Finding professional opportunities. A mechanic certificate or degree can also help you qualify for management positions or specialize in new areas of mechanical repair.
Remember that while most states do not require professionals to hold licensure to perform car repairs, many employers require their employees to have certifications or degrees. Thus, attending a postsecondary mechanic school or related program will improve your chances of securing a job post-graduation.
Interested in pursuing a more comprehensive education in manufacturing? Explore your options at Goodwin University!
What Mechanic Program Options Can I Take?
Aspiring mechanics can either earn a certificate or associate degree at a machining or mechanic school. In addition, they may be eligible to complete their mandatory apprenticeship for licensing depending on the program and the state where they live.
1. Certificate and Diploma Programs
These programs typically take the least amount of time to earn, with most programs lasting between six months to a year.
They focus on helping students gain the core expertise they need to quickly enter the job market and acquire the work experience needed to pursue professional credentials in the field.
2. Associate Degree Programs
Associate degree programs can take up to two years to complete as coursework goes more in-depth and further prepares mechanical students for the workforce.
In addition to mechanical courses, students usually take classes in general subjects like math, English, and introductory physics. Those attending a reputable manufacturing and machining school will also cover advanced topics in machining and gain experience with state-of-the-art equipment during their program.
As we mentioned, an associate degree will typically increase a candidate’s earning potential and make it easier to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the future.
3. Apprenticeships
Lastly, mechanic schools may require several apprenticeship hours before students can work independently. An apprenticeship is a supervised training experience that prepares students for a certain trade.
Some mechanic schools even assist students in finding appropriate apprenticeships that will provide them with hands-on training to hone their mechanical abilities and blend their education with real-world experience.
Candidates should discuss apprenticeship opportunities with their school and explore opportunities through the U.S. Department of Labor website.
A Mechanic School Alternative: The Certificate in CNC Machining, Metrology, and Manufacturing Technology at Goodwin University
While Goodwin University does not offer a specialized mechanic program, we provide many advanced manufacturing training programs for certificate, associate, and bachelor’s degrees. These programs prepare students for outstanding careers using their hands and mind.
As the field of manufacturing and mechanics evolves, industry leaders are looking for qualified professionals willing to rise and adapt to new technologies.
Our CNC machining, metrology, and manufacturing technology program, for example, will give you the hands-on experience you need for success in the field of manufacturing in Connecticut – which has been a leader in manufacturing for decades.
Students can earn this certificate through our full-time day program, which allows them to earn a collegiate certificate in as few as five months. This option is best for students looking into machining and manufacturing technology. It’s also a great option for those looking to get into work fast and save money on their education. Classes are offered Monday through Friday in an intensive, accelerated format.
If you need more flexibility, we also offer a part-time evening program that allows you to take evening classes Monday through Wednesday and earn your certificate in as few as four semesters.
Our manufacturing and machining school prides itself on flexible, affordable, and career-focused programs that will help you get through our certification and degree programs and into a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Learn more about our Manufacturing Technology certificate program and apply today. We’re ready when you are!