Auto Mechanic Schools in Arkansas

Automotive mechanics carry out several duties that help us get the most out of our automotive systems. These include diagnosing issues, coming up with suitable repair plans, upgrading parts for better functionalities, and carrying out maintenance activities to help prolong the lifespan of our vehicles.

Anyone interested in becoming an automotive mechanic in Arkansas is expected to start their career by meeting a few requirements. Once these requirements have been met, candidates will be able to secure employment and start working in a professional capacity.

Any interested candidate must become familiar with these requirements. Luckily, the upcoming sections explore exactly this.

We discuss the steps necessary to launch an auto mechanic career in Arkansas, the licensure/certification requirements, and the top training programs in the area.

How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Arkansas

Below are the major considerations expected of all aspiring auto mechanics in Arkansas.

Step 1: Get a High School Diploma or GED

Most automotive technology training programs in Arkansas admit only candidates with a high school diploma or a GED. To maximize their chances of success, candidates are also expected to be technically sound, with strong math skills, a desire to learn, and a high level of adaptability.

Step 2A: Academic Training Sessions

Candidates in Arkansas often choose to receive their automotive mechanic training from an academic program such as the ones offered by technical schools and community colleges across the state.

Here, they will be taught key topics in the classroom. This knowledge usually proves invaluable when practicing in the real world.

Individuals who are interested in attending an academic program may choose between those offering a certificate that can be completed in a few months and those offering associate degrees that can be completed in 18 to 24 months.

Step 2B: Practical Training

Candidates may obtain practical training as aspiring automotive mechanics by securing an “on-the-job” training arrangement. This can be sought through licensed mechanics, dealerships, and manufacturers in the area.

Most high-quality academic programs will also provide hands-on training opportunities for their students. This can occur either in the school laboratories/workshops or through partnerships with body shops and repair factories.

Step 3: Getting Specialized Training

Automotive mechanics often specialize in a subdiscipline to maximize their professional opportunities. There are several areas of specialties to consider, including those relating to specific parts of vehicles, such as exterior and interior systems.

Mechanics may specify a specific brand or manufacturer, such as Ford, Toyota, or Mercedes.

Explore other trades with similar paths

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

After completing all the above steps, aspiring auto mechanics in Arkansas may secure employment without worrying about local licenses and registration. However, they may also consider receiving professional certification for better career opportunities.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the most relevant professional organization offering nationally recognized credentials for automotive mechanics in Arkansas.

Candidates attending institutions with programs certified by the ASE may enjoy a straightforward route to becoming certified. They will also receive adequate preparation for the ASE exams, which all candidates must pass before they receive their professional credentials.

Certified auto mechanics must also be prepared to renew their credentials every five years by participating in continuing education programs.

Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Arkansas

The list below showcases some of Arkansas’s best destinations to receive training as an aspiring auto mechanic.

Explore auto mechanic schools in Arkansas by city:

• Auto mechanic schools in Little Rock

Salary & Career Outlook

In Arkansas, automotive mechanics take home a salary of around $58,355 on average every year if they find themselves among the midpoint earners. They take home an annual average salary of $87,754 if they are among the highest-paid and an average salary of $38,806 if they are among the lowest-paid.

To move from the lower end of the salary range to the higher end, candidates may consider factors such as experience, specialty, and establishment of employment. As one would expect, location also plays a role.

Currently, the most notable places to work as an auto mechanic in Arkansas for the highest annual average salary include Jonesboro, with an annual average salary of $65,802; Fayetteville, with an annual average salary of $63,678; and Bentonville, with an annual average salary of $61,914.

Springdale and North Little Rock, with annual average salaries of $61,849 and $60,875, are also worth mentioning.