A career as an auto mechanic involves being called upon to repair and upgrade several automotive systems. With the way these modern systems work, all auto mechanics must be able to adapt to a series of advanced requirements involving both mechanical and electronic components.
As an aspiring auto mechanic in Wisconsin, the most pressing issue on your journey should be to acquire high-level training at a worthwhile institution. However, there are other considerations to make.
There are also certification issues, prerequisites, possible licensure, and more. We have provided detailed explanations below to help candidates become familiar with these considerations before starting their journeys.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Wisconsin
The following are the key steps needed to become an automotive mechanic in Wisconsin.
Have a High School Diploma or GED
Aspiring auto mechanics in Wisconsin are expected to have a high school diploma or GED. This is needed to secure admission into a training program and employment after acquiring the necessary technical skills.
Additionally, candidates must be at least 18 and have a valid driver’s license.
Complete a Training Program
For their technical training, candidates looking to become auto mechanics in Wisconsin may choose to attend a trade school program or an apprenticeship program.
These programs typically provide enough theoretical and hands-on experience to allow candidates to start their careers on the right path.
Trade schools provide classroom instructions on campuses and hands-on training through internships, externships, and partnerships with popular auto manufacturers. Apprenticeship programs typically focus more on hands-on training and real-world experience.
Certification & Employment
After receiving technical training, candidates may obtain certification to stand out and specialize. Some training programs, including academic and apprenticeship, provide job placement assistance to help graduates find the right placement.
Below, we discuss the possible licensure and certification requirements for aspiring auto mechanics in Wisconsin.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
As an automotive mechanic in Wisconsin, you are not expected to obtain a license from any state body to begin your career. Even though local governments and certain municipalities can have their own licensing rules, this is also quite uncommon in the state.
However, one area that is still important, despite not being mandatory, is the question of certification. Currently, candidates looking to become certified as auto mechanics in Wisconsin tend to consider any of the credentials offered by the ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence).
The institute offers 7 specialty certifications, including Engine Repair, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle, Manual Drivetrain & Axles, Suspension & Steering, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Brakes, Heating & Air Conditioning, and Engine Performance.
Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Wisconsin
The programs below are considered some of Wisconsin’s most prominent automotive technology training programs.
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WI Online + Campus
Milwaukee Area Technical College is one of Wisconsin's most prominent training programs for aspiring automotive technology mechanics. One of the most popular programs offered here is the Express Lube Technician program, which leads to a certificate.
Tuition
$170 - $303 per CreditContact
(414) 297-6282
info@matc.edu
Waukesha County Technical College
Pewaukee, WI Online + Campus
Waukesha County Technical College offers specialist training in General Motors through the GM ASEP program.
Tuition
$146 - $224 per CreditContact
(262) 691-5129
enroll@wctc.edu
Fox Valley Technical College
Appleton, WI Online + Campus
Fox Valley Technical College is located in Appleton and has been responsible for producing competent automotive mechanics in Wisconsin for a long time. This is thanks to the school's Maintenance and Light Repair Technology program, which offers an associate degree.
Tuition
$146 - $219 per CreditContact
(920) 735-4740
admissionsspecialist@fvtc.edu
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Salary & Career Outlook
As one would expect, the exact yearly salary that an automotive mechanic in Wisconsin gets to take home depends on several factors. However, those with the most effect include experience, location, and the type of organization/industry where the auto mechanic works.
A survey of auto mechanics in the state revealed that those in the 50th percentile earn an annual salary of $64,817. Those who fall into the top 10% take home an annual average salary of $102,371, while those among the bottom 10% take home $41,039 annually.
Auto mechanics in West Allis are the highest paid in the state, earning an annual average salary of $80,650. Waukesha and Madison follow with annual averages of $73,790 and $72,845 respectively. Those in Kenosha and Lodi are also among the top five, with annual average salaries of $72,041 and $69,701.
Auto mechanics in Milwaukee earn an annual average salary of $69,367.