Nebraska has a lot to offer in terms of opportunities for trade and technical professions. The state’s Automotive mechanics are thriving, and the positive employment rate is set to be sustained even in the upcoming decades and beyond.
It is imperative for anybody who would like to launch an auto mechanic career in Nebraska to become familiar with the state requirements as soon as possible. This will give them the confidence to go through the process as smoothly as possible, help them make optimal decisions, and prevent them from being surprised.
Below, we have outlined the key steps to becoming a Nebraska auto mechanic. We touch upon important considerations, including prerequisites for training, specific training programs, and annual average salary projections.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Nebraska
Here are the requirements needed to become an auto mechanic in Nebraska.
Formal Academic Training
Aspiring automotive mechanics do not have to earn a bachelor’s degree to start their careers. They don’t even have to have formal academic training, but doing so can entice potential employers – which is why it is very advisable.
However, instead of pursuing a four-year bachelor’s degree program, candidates can choose a six-month or one-year certificate program or an associate degree program that can be completed in two years.
During training, they are expected to learn automotive safety standards and regulations while developing technical skills in electronics, ignition systems, fuel systems, steering, and suspension, among other areas.
Hands-On Training
Hands-on training is one of the most important educational aspects of becoming an automotive mechanic. Even though classroom training is great for familiarizing candidates with fundamental principles, candidates must still practice what they have been taught in the real world.
Work experience also appeals to potential employers and may open the door for career growth.
Improvement & Continuing Education
After receiving training and securing employment, auto mechanics must not relent and must continue to improve themselves through continuing education.
Joining a professional organization may help them achieve this, and we explore this topic further below.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is the most appealing organization for auto mechanics looking to be certified in Nebraska. However, automotive mechanics in Nebraska are not expected to be certified to work legally and professionally.
However, several candidates pursue certification simply because networking, continuing education, and skills verification can open the door to career opportunities. It is also common for certified auto mechanics to be favored in the employment market over those not certified.
Candidates should be prepared to participate in a specialized examination before being officially certified. Nebraska auto mechanics will also be glad to know that they are not expected to receive a license from the state before they can begin their careers.
Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Nebraska
Below are a few top schools where you can receive auto mechanic training as a resident of Nebraska.
Metropolitan Community College
Omaha, NE Campus Only
Metropolitan Community College offers a strong one-year program in automotive technology and an associate degree program that can be completed in two years.
Tuition
$70 - $105 per CreditContact
(531) 622-2400
maburright@mccneb.edu
Northeast Community College
Norfolk, NE Campus Only
Northeast Community College automotive technology incorporates much hands-on training. It offers various awards ranging from diplomas and certificates to an associate degree in applied science program.
Tuition
$108 - $151 per CreditContact
(402) 371-2020
dheikes@northeast.edu
Southeast Community College
Lincoln, NE Campus Only
Lastly, students may attend Southeast Community College to participate in a robust automotive technology program to start their career.
Tuition
$105 - $126 per CreditContact
(402) 437-2643
bsmith@southeast.edu
Explore auto mechanic schools in Nebraska by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
As mentioned earlier, obtaining specialty credentials from a nationally recognized destination can help auto mechanics in Nebraska improve their career prospects and even increase their earnings.
However, auto mechanics in the state generally earn an average annual salary of $65,691.
Those who have yet to work on key factors for career boost may start lower, earning an annual average salary of $44,055. Those on the favorable side of the factors can end up with an annual average salary of $97,953 or more.
The best places to work for a significant annual average salary in Nebraska include Blair, with an annual average salary of $77,818; Bellevue, with an annual average salary of $77,734; and Kearney, with an annual average salary of $70,535.
Candidates looking to start an auto mechanic career in the state will also be glad that the projections for the coming years are as positive as expected. The employment rate is set to keep increasing, and thousands of jobs will open every year.