Kentucky is one of the states in the U.S. with an auspicious future for the automotive sector; hence, many auto mechanic schools in the state can train you as long as you have the requirements to apply.Â
The state is involved in manufacturing more than 1.3 million vehicles per year, making it one of the fastest-growing states for auto mechanics.
There is an estimated job growth of about 12% in the automotive industry by 2024. Experienced and qualified automotive mechanics will remain in high demand.
Therefore, if you’re looking to begin a career in automotive technology, now is the best time to start up.
Kentucky has also provided plenty of training opportunities for those interested in becoming auto mechanics.
In this article, you’ll discover information on the best auto mechanic schools in Kentucky, how to become an auto mechanic in KY, and salary expectations for auto mechanics in KY.
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Automechanic Career in Kentucky: What Is It Like?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the automotive industry in the United States has grown by 6%. This ultimately implies that thousands of available jobs for trained auto mechanics will be available over the next few years.
Kentucky also promises to have many opportunities for qualified professionals in automotive technology.
The areas of utmost employment are in Louisville, Jefferson County, Lexington, near Cincinnati, and Fayette. Although it’s not limited to just these areas, there are also a lot of opportunities in other rural areas within the State.
In Kentucky, there are no specific state requirements to become a mechanic. Still, most employers would want to hire entry-level mechanics who have been trained and have completed some educational program level.
Most of the training programs the automotive schools in Kentucky handle are usually for two years, and then you can move ahead for certification as an auto mechanic.
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How Do I Become a Mechanic in Kentucky?
The following steps explain how to become a mechanic in Kentucky;
#1. Obtain a High school diploma
The first step to becoming an auto mechanic is earning a high school diploma or an equivalent state-issued GED.
Enrolling in any auto mechanic school in Kentucky would require completing a secondary program as part of the basic requirements for application.
A high school diploma would train you to have a general math background and the scientific skills essential for a mechanic career.
Some high schools in Kentucky offer introductory courses on becoming an auto mechanic, including core classes focused on automotive technology.
The advanced technology in today’s automobiles necessitates knowledge of computer systems. An auto mechanic education program incorporates the teaching of this, but background computer training would be pretty helpful.
#2. Enrolling in a training program
Enrolling in a training program is essential to becoming an auto mechanic. Attending any automotive training school ensures that the student receives quality educational training that combines classroom instruction with a practical approach as an auto mechanic.
During the practical sessions, students can work on vehicles and learn different repair methods and techniques.
The educational path to becoming an auto mechanic usually starts at a post-secondary school. It continues with a series of certification processes that can continue throughout the career life of an auto mechanic.
In Kentucky, numerous training programs are offered at technical colleges, community colleges, career learning centers, and junior colleges.
Students learning at a community college can earn an associate’s degree in automotive technology, while there are also options for a technical certificate or a diploma. These would usually take a time frame of about two years to complete.
After completing the training program, students can apply for an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification, which the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence issues. This certification is what employers look out for when hiring auto mechanics.
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#3. Gain relevant work experience
To obtain an ASE certification in Kentucky, work experience is a criterion.
Work experience allows auto mechanics to put their training into practice to enhance their overall job performance.
There are many auto repair centers in Kentucky where one can gain valuable work experience for some time.
#4. Earn an ASE Certification
Earning a certification is the next step for an auto mechanic after attending a training school and gaining relevant work experience.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the body in charge of certifying auto mechanics in Kentucky. They usually compile an extensive test series to measure the auto mechanic’s technical knowledge.
To qualify for an ASE certification exam, the auto mechanic must have either two years of work experience or one year of experience after having completed a certificate or degree program at an accredited school.
Most mechanics work towards achieving multiple certifications in a bid to showcase an advanced skill level and experience to employers, which can lead to a high salary range for the mechanic.
An ASE certification must be renewed every 5 years by taking a recertification test.
ASE certification exams are written at various test centers located throughout the state of Kentucky. You can consider visiting one to obtain adequate information about the certification.
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#5. Obtain Manufacturer Certification training
Obtaining manufacturer certification training is optional but is highly recommended.
A manufacturer certification program trains auto mechanics to become experts in working on vehicles made by a particular manufacturer. Every auto mechanic who undergoes this training can work with Automotive dealerships.
This type of certification is a special training program handled at specific centers.
What Are The Requirements to become an Auto Mechanic in Kentucky?
The following are the basic requirements to become a Mechanic in Kentucky;
- High school diploma or equivalent GED
- Passion for working on vehicles
- Pursue an educational program in either a technical school, community college, or vocational school.
- Work experience of at least 2 years in the automotive repair industry.
- Earn an ASE Certification.
What Are The Requirements to apply to Mechanic Schools in Kentucky?
To apply to any of the best automotive schools in Kentucky, you need the following;
- High school diploma or an equivalent GED
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Pass the school’s placement test.
You can visit the school’s website for more information on the admission requirements.
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List Of The Best Mechanic Schools in Kentucky
In Kentucky, obtaining a secondary or postsecondary certificate or degree in automotive technology is not mandatory to become a mechanic.
Although, you would have to consider getting one because employers in the state are usually looking to hire entry-level mechanics with basic education.
We have compiled basic information on the top 10 Best Mechanic schools in Kentucky for you to consider in 2023.
#1. South Central Kentucky Community and Technical College
Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College are located in Bowling Green, KY.
The school is rated one of the best automotive schools in Kentucky. They offer several automotive programs at the certificate, diploma, and associate degree levels.
The training lasts 2 years, and the estimated annual tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state students are $4,248 and $14,400, respectively.
#2. Ashland Community and Technical College
Ashland Community and Technical College is a public college located in Ashland, Kentucky.
The school offers Automotive Technology programs at the certificate, diploma, and associate degree levels.
The training period is usually 2 years, and the estimated annual tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state students are about $4,248 and $14,400, respectively.
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#3. West Kentucky Community and Technical College
West Kentucky Community and Technical College is a public college located in Paducah, Kentucky, and one of the best mechanic schools.
The school offers various Certificate, Diploma, and Associate Degree programs in Automotive technology.
The training period is usually 2 years, and the estimated annual tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state students are about $4,248 and $14,400, respectively.
#4. Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College
Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College are based in Cumberland, Kentucky.
The school offers nine certificate programs, a diploma program, and an associate degree program in automotive technology.
The annual tuition fee at Southeast Kentucky University is about $4,248 for in-state students and $14,400 for out-of-state students.
The programs are usually for about 2 years.
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#5. Hazard Community and Technical college
Hazard Community and Technical College is a public school located in Hazard, Kentucky, and one of its pride automotive schools.
The school offers certificate and associate degree programs in automotive technology.
The programs are usually run for about 2 years and the estimated tuition fee per year at HCTC is $4,459.
#6. Jefferson Community and Technical College
Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC) is located in Louisville, Kentucky.
The school offers diploma and associate degree programs in automotive technology. Training at JCTC includes classroom instruction and on-site work experience.
There are also several specialized certificate training programs for students to choose from hence why it is one of Kentucky’s auto mechanic schools.
Jefferson’s tuition fee per year is $4,328 for in-state students and $14,480 for out-of-state students. The program lasts for about two years.
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#7. Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Bluegrass Community and Technical College are located in the large city of Lexington, Kentucky.
The school offers associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs in automotive technology for about two years.
Bluegrass produces many of the brightest minds in automotive technology in Kentucky.
The annual tuition fee at Bluegrass is $4,328 for in-state students and $14,480 for out-of-state students.
#8. Elizabethtown Community and Technical college
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is a public school in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.
The school is rated as one of the best automotive schools in Kentucky.
They offer certificate, diploma, and associate degree programs in automotive technology for about 2 years. The school ensures that the students receive the best education by including intensive practical sessions as a part of the academic training on campus.
The annual tuition fee at Elizabethtown is $4,248 for in-state students and $14,400 for out-of-state students.
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#9. Gateway Community and Technical CollegeÂ
Gateway Community and Technical College are located in Florence, Kentucky.
The school has offered associate degree programs in automotive technology, diesel technology, and collision repair technology for two years.Â
Gateway also has a training program for students to learn to work on Ford vehicles specifically. This program is called the Ford ASSET program. With this program, students can work with Ford dealerships after completion.
The annual tuition fee is about $7,873.
#10. Owensboro Community and Technical CollegeÂ
Owensboro Community and Technical College are based in Owensboro, Kentucky.
The school offers various automotive training programs at a diploma and certificate level.
The programs usually last for about two years, with tuition fees of $4,248 for in-state students and $14,400 for out-of-state students per year.
What Is The Salary expectations for Mechanics in Kentucky?
Auto mechanics in Kentucky are subject to a wide range of salaries, primarily based on the level of work experience acquired. The location and certifications also affect the income range of the mechanic.
However, The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the annual salary for an auto mechanic in Kentucky is about $33,850.
Some earn higher than that in the state. The top 10% of mechanics in the state earn an annual salary of about $58,850.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanic Schools And Colleges In KY
How Do I Get ASE Certified In KY?
To qualify for an ASE certification exam, the auto mechanic must have either two years of work experience or one year of experience after having completed a certificate or degree program at an accredited school.
Once qualified and can sit for the exam and pass, you’ll be issued an ASE certification.
This ASE certification would have to be renewed every five years by taking a recertification test.
References
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