Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Colorado Springs
Are you searching for a reliable job that offers exceptional financial stability? Then think about becoming an auto technician, body shop or collision repairer, and/or diesel or heavy truck mechanic. You’ll be content with the work opportunities available in these positions!
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs does not have a mechanic licensing requirement for auto service and repair technicians. However, most employers prefer to hire technicians who hold a certificate or degree in automotive technology. To pursue an education program in the field of auto repair, you’ll need to attend an accredited post-secondary institution and complete a two-year associate’s degree course.
An automotive program typically covers various topics on automotive systems, such as:
- Ignition systems
- Engine performance
- Automotive electronics
- Air conditioning
- Charging systems
- Engine repair
- Diesel engines
- Traction control
Auto Mechanic Schools in Colorado Springs
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an auto mechanic, there are several schools in Colorado Springs that offer automotive technology programs. Here are some of the more popular automotive schools available:
- Intellitec College. Located in Colorado Springs, Intellitec College has been offering a variety of career-oriented programs for over 40 years. The college offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology that is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to work as entry-level automotive technicians.
- Pikes Peak Community College. Located in Colorado Springs, this campus gives students the chance to obtain either a certificate or two-year degree in automotive technology.
ASE Certification
Automotive repair technicians can exponentially raise their worth and reputation within the industry by successfully passing an ASE certification exam from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. This single test confirms that these professionals are knowledgeable in their trade, which is highly beneficial to employers looking for experienced employees when hiring.
The ASE offers over 40 certification exams, a few of which are mentioned below:
- School bus certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- Light truck certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Colorado Springs is expected to increase by 7% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Colorado Springs earned an average annual wage of $47,450 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $49,000. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $45,510 and $47,130 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Colorado Springs
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs, CO | 1,430 | $24,49 | $50,950 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Colorado Springs
Auto mechanics in Colorado Springs have plenty of job opportunities to explore. The area is continually expanding, making it a great place to find employment as an auto technician or body shop/collision repair specialist. With the right education and experience, there’s no telling how far you can go in the automotive industry!
Sources:
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, accessed December 17, 2021, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, accessed December 2022, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm