Auto Mechanic Schools in Montana

Prominent certification organizations nationwide offer specialization credentials for automotive mechanics in Montana. Entry-level workers may leverage these credentials to improve their career prospects.

However, before considering career growth, candidates must meet a handful of requirements that allow them to start their careers legally. Thankfully, these requirements in Montana are quite straightforward for well-prepared individuals.

The guide below was created to facilitate this high level of preparation so that an interested candidate can confidently go about their journey. We explore the educational requirements and licensing possibilities and list a few highly rated programs for Montana residents to consider.

How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Montana

Auto mechanics in Montana typically follow the steps below to start their careers on a strong foundation.

Step 1: Preparing for Training

Candidates seeking a career as an automotive mechanic in Montana should first secure admission into a training program. To do so, they must have a high school diploma or take GED tests.

Some programs will also have a minimum age requirement, usually around 17.

Step 2: Academic Learning

Earning an associate degree from a community college or technical school is a perfect way to become very appealing to potential employers. During their training, future auto mechanics learn important topics such as automotive transmission, air conditioning systems, ignition systems, engine performance, and safety standards.

They may also go for a certificate program that can be completed in only a few months.

Step 3: Work Experience

After academic training, candidates are expected to continue to acquire real-world skills even before securing full-time employment. They may do this by participating in an apprenticeship or internship program.

Some schools also partner with manufacturers to produce specific training in actual dealerships.

Lastly, candidates may secure employment after completing both classroom and hands-on training.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn to become an electrician in Montana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Interested individuals won’t be expected to receive a state license to start an auto mechanic career in Montana. They will need the above steps to acquire relevant skills and secure job placement, but that is all.

However, regarding career growth, certification is a key issue to consider. Certification is not compulsory, just like licensing, but it can still be incredibly important.

Certification helps future auto mechanics stand out among competitors who need certification. It also helps them network with other professionals in the field while giving them access to continuing education, which is necessary to maintain certification.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offers the best certifications for candidates in Montana. The institute offers credentials in specialty areas such as steering and suspension, light repair, school buses, and more.

Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Montana

The following are among the most accomplished training programs for aspiring auto mechanics in Montana.

Explore auto mechanic schools in Montana by city:

• Auto mechanic schools in Billings

Salary & Career Outlook

A survey of auto mechanics in Montana showed that professionals in this field can earn an annual average salary of $105,841. This puts them in the highest-earning bracket, typically among the top 10%.

Candidates working as auto mechanics in Montana may also have an annual average salary of $44,787 (relevant for the bottom 10%) if they have not optimized the factors influencing these figures. These factors include experience level, credentials, specialty, and location.

Those in the midpoint earn an annual average salary of $68,850.

For a relatively higher annual average salary, candidates may consider the top locations in the state, which include Great Falls and Bozeman, with annual average salaries of $83,443 and $83,143, respectively. Havre and Billings are also noteworthy, with annual average salaries of $75,597 and $69,601, respectively.

Concerning the career outlook, top employment platforms across the country, including the BLS, project an increase in the employment rate for auto mechanics in Montana over the coming years.