Auto Mechanic Schools in Tennessee

Becoming a successful auto mechanic in Texas involves several considerations. First, the basic prerequisites are needed to secure admission into a training program, followed by the educational pathways and certification options.

Candidates will then have to consider the specific training program(s) they would like to enroll in, understand possible licensure requirements, and gain a clear idea of potential annual average salary figures to anticipate.

Thankfully, for residents of Tennessee who would like to start an auto mechanic career, we explore all of these and more in the upcoming sections. We also examine the career outlook and projections for this field in this state in the upcoming decades.

How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Tennessee

Below are the steps involved in launching an auto mechanic career in Tennessee.

Basic Prerequisites

A high school diploma or GED is the basic prerequisite for admission into a training program for an aspiring auto mechanic in Tennessee.

Educational Pathways

Classroom training and work experience are educational pathways to consider for becoming a thriving auto mechanic in Tennessee.

Classroom Training

Candidates are advised to start their automotive mechanic education through classroom training to understand basic principles before working with actual automotive systems.

Individuals who attend a trade school program may also set themselves apart from potential competition by acquiring a degree or certificate.

Those who are okay with spending a few years in training may choose degree programs such as an Associate in Applied Science or an Associate in Occupational Technology program. Those who would like to start gaining work experience as quickly as possible may opt for a certificate program that can be completed in as little as 6 months.

Work Experience

All auto mechanics need some work experience before being confident about the job. Even though some employers will welcome candidates without prior experience, it is usually important for candidates to set themselves apart by gaining ample experience immediately or even before they complete an academic program.

They may achieve this by participating in an internship or an apprenticeship program.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a truck driver in Tennessee

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Certification is an important part of becoming a successful automotive mechanic in Tennessee but is not a compulsory step. The state only asks for candidates to receive a license or become certified before they can start working professionally.

Certification is deemed important because it is an effective way for candidates to verify their skills and create an extra layer of appeal to employers and customers. Additionally, being certified also comes with a need to keep improving one’s skills through continuing education.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence currently offers the most highly rated credentials for auto mechanics nationwide. The institute offers credentials in various areas, so professionals have the luxury of choosing their specific certification.

Some common options include transit buses, alternate fuels, parts specialists, light trucks, and engine machinist certification.

Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Tennessee

The state of Tennessee offers the following top programs for prospective auto mechanics.

Explore auto mechanic schools in Tennessee by city:

• Auto mechanic schools in Nashville

Salary & Career Outlook

Sorting by annual average salary, auto mechanics in Tennessee are typically divided into three categories: top, median, and bottom. The factors responsible for separating professionals into these categories include experience, specific location within the state, credentials, specialty focus, and nature of the employer.

In the first category, the top earners manage an annual average salary of $108,202. The median earners in the second category take home an annual average salary of $63,425. In contrast, the bottom earners in the last category can still expect to end the year with an average salary of $37,178.

The projections for automotive technology in Tennessee are also extremely positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a sustained year-on-year increase in demand for these professionals over the next decade.

Regarding specific locations, Nashville and Chattanooga offer the highest annual average salary by location in Tennessee. Professionals here earn around $72,355 and $72,355 per year, respectively.

Other prominent locations include Hixson, Murfreesboro, and Memphis, with annual average salaries of $62,848, $61,377, and $60,272, respectively.