The field of automotive technology is quite broad, incorporating several disciplines from exterior and interior components to manufacturer-specific focus. Residents of New Hampshire who would like to start a career in any branch of automotive technology may use the guide below as a starting reference.
Here, readers will discover every major consideration they must make on their journey to secure job placement and even boost their careers until they reach the top of the profession. We examine the basic prerequisites for securing admission into a training program and the types of training arrangements candidates can consider.
Then, we examine the licensure and certification requirements before examining the career outlook and annual average salary potential for candidates in the state.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in New Hampshire
The considerations below are key to starting a successful automotive mechanic career in New Hampshire.
High School Diploma or GED
Aiming automotive mechanics are usually expected to have a high school diploma or GED to secure admission into a training program. Some schools also ask that candidates be at least 18 years old and proficient in basic mathematics and other science subjects.
Enrolling in a Training Program
Enrolling in a training program is next after meeting the basic requirements. Candidates are expected to be well-trained, and having an associate degree to this effect does not hurt at all.
During training, they must learn key topics such as transport maintenance, vehicle technology, etc.
Most training programs are structured as academic programs through community colleges and technical schools.
Work Experience
As important as it is to get a formal education and an associate degree, potential employers expect candidates looking to work as auto mechanics under them to be familiar with the profession’s real-world pace.
For this, most technical schools incorporate an internship into the curriculum.
Of course, some students further train themselves by participating in an apprenticeship program.
Technically, candidates can secure employment and become auto mechanics in New Hampshire after training. However, to increase their chance of success, they are usually advised to consider certification.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
As an aspiring automotive mechanic in New Hampshire, no law mandates candidates to receive a state or local license to start their careers. There are no laws mandating certification either, but doing this can be very beneficial to start a career and keep growing in the field.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is the authority regarding highly rated credentials valid anywhere in the United States of America. Candidates certified by the ASE will enjoy a solid reputation among their peers and maintain a high level of appeal to potential customers.
The institute allows certification in various specialty areas, from light repair and school buses to steering and suspension. Applicants should be prepared to pass a certification exam and maintain their credentials periodically.
Top Auto Mechanic Schools in New Hampshire
The programs on the following list are among the top-rated for individuals looking to become auto mechanics in New Hampshire.
Manchester Community College
Manchester, NH Campus Only
Manchester Community College offers an Automotive Technology program overseen by nationally recognized and master-certified instructors.
Tuition
$215 - $490 per CreditContact
(603) 206-8000
MCCAutomotive@ccsnh.edu
Lakes Region Community College
Laconia, NH Campus Only
Lakes Region Community College offers an Automotive—Toyota/Lexus T-Ten training program for candidates looking to specialize in this manufacturer category.
Tuition
$215 - $490 per CreditContact
(603) 524-3207
lrccinfo@ccsnh.edu
Great Bay Community College
Portsmouth, NH Campus Only
Lastly, candidates may consider Great Bay Community College, which offers strong Automotive Technology training and graduates with a certificate.
Tuition
$215 - $490 per CreditContact
(603) 427-7600 Ext: 7500
gbadmissions@ccsnh.edu
Explore auto mechanic schools in New Hampshire by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Depending on criteria like experience and location, automotive mechanics in New Hampshire may be among the lowest-salary, median, or top earners.
Generally, candidates who fall among the top earners often make as high as an annual average salary of $124,589. Those who fall among the median earners typically manage an annual average salary of $78,841, while the lowest-paid still take home an average of around $49,892 at the end of each year.
For location, auto mechanics in Rochester earn the highest in the state based on this criterion alone. They take home an annual average salary of $122,769.
In Concord, auto mechanics make an annual average salary of $101,424, while those in Hudson are the third-highest paid in the state with an annual average salary of $92,945.
Individuals pursuing auto mechanic careers in New Hampshire will be glad to know that the projections are positive. Up to a 6% growth in demand for professionals in this field is expected across the upcoming decade.