Vehicles nowadays do more than move people from one place to another. With complex components and incredible software, these pieces of machinery have become an integral part of our lives.
And while most of us love and depend greatly on our cars, it is only possible to become familiar with some aspects of their functionality and deal with all issues on our own. Thankfully, an auto mechanic must help fix, replace, upgrade, and maintain automotive systems.
As an auto mechanic in Ohio, you will also carry out all of these functions. Of course, before you can start, you will have to become familiar with these components and acquire the skills necessary to carry out your job to a high level.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Ohio
The following are the considerations involved in becoming an automotive mechanic in Ohio.
Automotive Mechanic Training
Interested individuals in Ohio may consider enrolling in a two-year academic program for their automotive mechanic training. By completing this program, they will graduate with an associate degree in automotive technology and give themselves an edge when it’s time to apply for job positions.
Those who wish for a faster route may choose a certificate program that can be completed in a year and sometimes less. An automotive technology program will mostly deal with topics such as automatic transmissions, fuel systems, brakes and vehicles, and computer systems.
Additionally, when choosing an automotive technician training program, it is always best to go with one approved by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF).
ASE certification
After graduating from a training program, an aspiring automotive mechanic in Ohio may consider earning a handful of certifications, including the Automotive Service Excellence certification (ASE). This is not compulsory, but it does help candidates in their efforts to secure high-paying employment.
Qualifying for ASE certification requires an examination and proof of two years of work experience, which can be obtained from a training program. Candidates must also renew their certification every five years by passing another examination in testing areas such as auto maintenance and light repair, damage analysis, and collision repair.
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Licensing & Certification Requirements
Automotive mechanics in Ohio are not expected to be licensed or certified. However, certification is usually crucial to secure employment. Generally, the Automotive Service Excellence certification highlighted above is the most popular for professionals in the field.
Along with the ASE certification, candidates working on air conditioning systems must also pursue the EPA 609 refrigerant certification. To do so, they will need to enroll in a specific training program, after which they will qualify for an examination and attain an 84% passing score.
Lastly, automotive mechanics in Ohio who wish to work for a specific manufacturer may apply for the manufacturer’s certification. These certifications are available from companies such as Ford, BMW, Chrysler, and Honda.
Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Ohio
The following are the top auto mechanic schools in Ohio.
Columbus State Community College
Columbus State Community College remains one of Ohio’s top destinations for trade training. The school has a comprehensive program for auto mechanics covering important topics, from brakes and steering to electrical systems.
Students may also apply for the Ford asset program for additional hands-on training in Ford dealerships.
Auburn Career Center
Auto mechanic students at Auburn Career Center will learn crucial auto mechanic topics. Still, they will also be able to earn their Automotive Service Excellence certification, OSHA safety certification, and more.
Those who complete the program may contribute up to 12 college degrees for further studies at the University of Northwestern Ohio.
Cuyahoga Community College
According to the auto mechanic program website at the Cuyahoga Community College, students will learn in the classroom and participate in laboratory and field training sessions. Graduates will also be able to qualify for the Automotive Service Excellence certification test.
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Salary & Career Outlook
Auto mechanics in Ohio earn an annual average salary of $61,419. This is the same as the national average but can be influenced by factors including but not limited to experience and location.
For instance, Ohio’s highest-paid automotive mechanics earn an annual average salary of $109,761, while the lowest earners still manage an annual average salary of $34,368.
In Ohio, automotive mechanics may choose to work in the most favorable cities to increase their salary potential. Currently, these are Streetsboro, with an annual average salary of $76,326; Toledo, with an annual average salary of $72,634; Cleveland, with an annual average salary of $71,463; and Akron, with an annual average salary of $64,599.
Automotive mechanics in Dayton and Columbus earn an annual average salary of $63,241 and $62,256, respectively.
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