Anyone who has a penchant for breaking down complex mechanical parts and understanding how they work would do well to consider a career as an automotive mechanic. The profession includes numerous perks, such as a straightforward entry path, ample opportunity for growth, and freedom to choose your work schedule and environment.
If you’ve ever considered a career as an automotive mechanic in Wyoming, the guide below includes everything you need to know to begin your journey. We take a close look at the steps involved, the best training schools in the state, salary, job outlook, and, of course, the certification and licensing requirements.
How to Become an Automotive Mechanic in Wyoming
To become an auto mechanic in Wyoming, most candidates go through an official training program. While it is technically possible to do so through an apprenticeship, training programs offer a more formal approach with numerous experienced instructors guiding you.
Of course, some of these programs have their requirement period. For example, it is common for applicants to be expected to be high school graduates or possess a GED, be good at mathematics, be good with computers, and already have a solid foundation in physics.
Top Automotive Mechanic Schools in Wyoming
Below are some of the most notable auto mechanic schools in Wyoming, all of which offer a high education standard and, most importantly, are accredited by the appropriate accreditation bodies on an institutional and programmatic level.
WyoTech Laramie
Laramie, WY Online + Campus
A not-for-profit institution based in Venture Drive, WyoTech-Laramie allows students to learn the fundamentals of automotive technology while specializing in one or more areas, such as auto-diesel vehicle technology, advanced diesel technology, and applied service management, among others.
Tuition
$27,500 - $31,750Contact
1889 Venture Drive, Laramie, Wyoming 82070
(800) 521-7158
info@wyotech.edu
Laramie County Community College
Cheyenne, WY Online + Campus
Laramie County Community College has two major campuses in Wyoming. The first is located at Cheyenne, while the second is located on Boulder Drive, Laramie. As highlighted on the program website, the school's automotive technology program focuses on crucial areas of the field, such as ignition systems, engine construction, transmissions, and diagnostics.
Tuition
$4,613 - $10,913Contact
Cheyenne Campus, 1400 E. College Drive, Cheyenne, WY 82007
(307) 778-1265
StudentHub@lccc.wy.edu
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs, WY Online + Campus
Lastly, another notable higher institution in Wyoming where students can learn how to become successful auto mechanics is the Western Wyoming Community College. An established institution with several successful graduates, the school offers applicants a choice between a certificate program and an associate of applied science degree.
Tuition
$3,600 - $8,640Contact
2500 College Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901
(307) 382-1677
admissions@westernwyoming.edu
Explore Auto Mechanic Schools By City
Licensure and Certification Requirements
Just like most states, Wyoming does not have any strict licensing requirements for its automotive mechanics. The only group of people you will have to worry about when it comes to certification is the employers.
Employers tend to prefer auto mechanics who are certified. For this reason, many auto mechanics in the state choose to get certified by the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence).
To become certified, candidates must meet two key requirements: obtain two years of experience, either on the job or through a training program, and pass a specialized exam. Certification will last for 5 years, after which it must be renewed through continuing education.
Learn about auto mechanic licensing and certification in neighboring states:
Salary and Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a significant growth in demand for auto mechanics in Wyoming and nationwide. The average salary has also been on the increase over the years.
Currently, auto mechanics in the state earn an annual average salary of $70,089. This figure is about 9% higher than the national average. Of course, it is possible to earn above or below this figure.
Entry-level professionals, for example, may earn as low as $49,234, while the highest-paid auto mechanics in the state can earn as high as $99,778. The location also plays a huge role.
Auto mechanics in Jackson earn a higher average than anywhere else in the state, with an annual average salary of $84,206. Evanston and Gillette round up the top three highest-paying cities in the state with an annual average salary of $83,814 and $73,480, respectively.