Auto Mechanic Schools in Iowa

Auto mechanics in Iowa enjoy great flexibility in their career paths, including choosing to specialize and a specific work environment. The state also maintains a straightforward process for candidates looking to enter the field, as we will explore below.

Here, readers will discover all the considerations they need to make to become successful auto mechanics in Iowa and other complementary steps to facilitate career growth. What’s more, we also reveal the top programs in the state to gain comprehensive education before outlining some important figures concerning possible annual earnings and career outlook.

How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Iowa

Iowa requires the following considerations for individuals looking to become auto mechanics in the state.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for becoming an auto mechanic in Iowa are quite simple. Candidates are expected to have a high school diploma, and those who don’t are expected to have a GED equivalent.

Some training programs also require candidates to be at least 16 years old and have a basic understanding of mathematics, physics, and general science.

Training Options

In Iowa, you can become an auto mechanic by attending an academic or on-the-job training program.

Academic Program

Academic training as an aspiring auto mechanic in Iowa can be obtained by attending a vocational school, community college, or institute offering such programs. Many programs can be completed in around 6 months, while some take 2 years.

Ultimately, an academic auto mechanic program aims to introduce students to fundamental concepts and ensure that they are sound for real-world training.

Real-World Training

Even after acquiring comprehensive training in an academic program, candidates are expected to improve themselves as auto mechanics by participating in real-world training. This will help them become familiar with how an actual auto mechanic shop works while also helping them build confidence in performing their duties in a high-pressure environment.

Prospective auto mechanics in Iowa can attend apprenticeship programs or academic programs. In the former, they must complete an internship before they graduate for hands-on training.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a CNC machinist in Iowa

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Aspiring auto mechanics in Iowa will be glad to know they do not need to receive a license before they can start working professionally. They do not need to become certified, but this step is highly advisable because of its potential benefits.

For instance, certified auto mechanics enjoy many career opportunities while standing out to potential employers. Certification is also perfect for candidates who want to specialize and receive a specialty credential.

Most auto mechanics in Iowa looking to become certified choose the credentials the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers. To acquire these credentials, applicants must pass certification examinations in their specific focus area.

The institute offers credentials in light repair, suspension and steering, damage analysis and estimation, collision repair, and more.

Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Iowa

The programs below are among the best for prospective auto mechanics in Iowa.

Explore auto mechanic schools in Iowa by city:

• Auto mechanic schools in Des Moines

Salary & Career Outlook

A mechanic in Iowa who has successfully improved several aspects of their career may ultimately manage an annual average salary of $92,468 or even more. This will push them to be among the top 10% in the entire state.

Those in the median bracket earn an annual average salary of $62,505, while the lowest-paid make an average of $42,251. Along with experience, employer, and specialty, location is one factor that can greatly influence how much an auto mechanic takes home in Iowa.

Ames currently has the most favorable employment conditions for these professionals in the state. They make an annual average salary of around $74,876.

Other notable destinations in Iowa to practice as an auto mechanic include Sioux City, with an annual average salary of $73,087, and Iowa City, where auto mechanics earn an annual average salary of $66,504.