by our College Data Analytics TeamMechanics and repairers are responsible for troubleshooting and repairing vehicles, tools and other machines as required by the business they work for. They may also help maintain machines to ensure they don't fail unexpectedly. Parts can be replaced and the devices themselves can be cleaned to ensure continued smooth operation.
Mechanics and repairers need to have on the job training and this is best done through certificate programs in automotive repair and maintenance. Most trade schools will offer certificates based on the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) program. ASE certification requires you to have two years of on the job experience and passage of an exam. ASE certification is often required by automotive repair shops - especially those run by the main automotive manufacturers.
If you want to advance further and be a lead mechanic or start your own business, it is recommended you pursue an associate's degree. You may also want to pursue taking some business courses if you are especially interested in running your own business. You'll need to be able to provide accurate quotes to customers and will need to be able to track inventory and your finances.
In 2020-2021, mechanics and repairers was the 317th most popular major nationwide with 391 degrees awarded. This represents a 7.4% reduction in mechanical repair degrees awarded over the prior year's total of 420.
This year's Best Mechanics & Repairers Schools ranking compares 4 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom mechanical repair rankings further below.
Mechanics and repairers need to have a number of skills including the ability to troubleshoot and think creatively. Troubleshooting a symptom of a nonfunctioning machine is a critical skill mechanics must have. You may not always be able to see the source of the issue, so being able to come up with tests to determine the root cause of the issue is important.
You will also need to have good dexterity as you will often be working with small parts and tools in confined spaces. You must also have strength as you may be working with large or heavy components.
Mechanics and repairers must also be organized in order to properly disassemble and reassemble components.
New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. Once you obtain your degree, additional mechanical repair certifications required to pursue a career in this field.
There are various different levels of mechanical repair degrees. You can spend many years getting as high as a in mechanics and repairers to something that takes less time like a . Different mechanics and repairers degrees vary in how long they take.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
With advanced ASE training or associates degree, further advancement opportunities open up. Other repairer careers are highly specialized and typically require specialized training. You may focus on the repair of large machinery or elevators for example.
Recently graduated mechanics and repairers students earned an average of $44,179 in 2019-2020. Earnings can range from as low as $44,179 to as high as $44,179. As you might expect, salaries for mechanical repair graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Mechanics & Repairers is one of 7 different types of Mechanic & Repair Technologies programs to choose from.
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance & Repair | 56,539 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation & Refrigeration | 19,594 |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance | 8,717 |
| Electronics Maintenance & Repair | 7,770 |
| Precision Systems Maintenance | 1,932 |
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