Automotive Schools

Automotive schools are usually divided into two groups: those that offer driving certificates and those that train technicians. The automotive schools that offer driving certificates train those who want to be truck drivers, bus drivers, and chauffeurs. For prospective students who want to be technicians, automotive schools offer courses in diesel mechanics, marine and watercraft repair, motorcycle repair, and aviation mechanics. Students at automotive schools typically earn their degrees in a year or less and are often placed in a position after graduation.

At automotive schools, would-be technicians become familiar with various models, since repair varies according to the make of vehicle. It is essential that a student gain full practical knowledge on how to repair engines, fuel and ignition systems, brakes and transmissions. The use of diagnostic equipment is essential in troubleshooting, skill with these tools is also essential.

Many automotive schools offer a few courses on how to run your own business if you want to go it alone. Since starting your own repair business requires substantial overhead costs, it is often wiser to work as an employee until you can save enough money and gain enough experience to risk going into business for yourself. Many technicians are quite satisfied to work as a technician for a specific company, such as an airline, to guarantee steady work without having to wait for the phone to ring, like the famous Maytag repairman.

Most automotive schools are two year trade schools which give certificates to graduates upon completing the course. It is also possible at many automotive schools to take a few refresher courses and to obtain individual certificates for these. Many public high schools give students the option of spending afternoons at automotive schools where they can work towards a technical degree along with their high school degree. This program has enabled many high school graduates to have a lucrative career by the time they turn eighteen or nineteen years old.