Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Kentucky

With an abundance of job and educational offerings, Kentucky is the ideal location for aspiring automotive technicians or truck mechanics. Automotive technicians in Kentucky have the opportunity to work on a variety of vehicles, ranging from cars and trucks to recreational vehicles and motorcycles. In addition, they can specialize in preventative maintenance services such as oil changes, battery testing and brake inspections. Certifications may also be attained for areas such as electrical systems, engine repair and emissions control.

Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Kentucky

If you want to work as an auto mechanic in Kentucky, you don’t need a professional license. However, you will need to possess a valid driver’s license and must be 18 years of age or older. You may also need to complete an occupational safety training program that is approved by the Kentucky Occupational Safety and Health Administration (KOSHA).

Some employers may prefer that you have graduated from a post-secondary educational program in automotive technology or a related field. Additionally, you may need to pass an examination to become certified as an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) technician and/or master technician.

Auto mechanic training programs may cover the following topics:

  • Computer control systems
  • Ignition systems
  • Manual transmissions
  • Air conditioning
  • Climate control
  • Emission systems
  • Brake systems and brake repair
  • Steering
  • Manual drive train
  • Industrial safety

Auto Mechanic Schools in Kentucky

Gaining a post-secondary diploma in automotive technology is not compulsory to become an auto mechanic in Kentucky, yet the majority of employers prefer hiring those mechanics with some formal education. Fortunately, there are several training options available across the state. Those interested in enrolling in an automotive program, should consider one of the following options:

  • Jefferson Community and Technical College. Jefferson, located in Louisville, provides students with a wide selection of education opportunities. With the associate degree program in automotive technology and diploma programs like an automotive technician certificate, you can gain specialized knowledge that will make you more employable after graduation. Furthermore, Jefferson also offers certificates for air conditioning, electronics repair work such as brakes or engine repairs and tune-ups mechanics to expand your understanding even further! By maintaining full-time status during school life at Jefferson, it is possible to acquire an Associate Degree of Applied Science within two years or a Diploma Program which can be completed in as little as 4 months.
  • Gateway Community and Technical College. Gateway is located in Florence, Kentucky, and has several options for automotive programs for students. The school offers two-year associate degree programs With a specialty in automotive, diesel and collision repair technology, Gateway provides students with the opportunity to hone their skills towards becoming certified professionals.
  • Bluegrass community and technical college. The Bluegrass Technical Community College, in Lexington, Kentucky, offers a vast array of automotive programs for students to choose from. BCTC’s Automotive Program has earned the esteemed Accreditation from the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation and is continuously supervised by a Master Certified Program Coordinator with an ASE certification.

ASE Certification

ASE certification is a highly sought-after and respected credential in the automotive industry. To acquire this esteemed status, one ASE exam pertaining to your expertise must be passed and then maintained every five years through recertification or reexamination. Upon meeting these criteria, you can demonstrate to employers that you possess authoritative knowledge in auto repair services.

With over 40 ASE certification exams, you have numerous options to choose from. Some of the available tests include:

  • Truck equipment certification tests
  • Auto maintenance and light repair certification test
  • Engine machinist certification tests
  • Light truck certification tests
  • School bus certification tests
  • Transit bus certification tests
  • Alternate fuels certification test
  • Parts specialist certification tests
  • Damage analysis and estimating certification test
  • Collision repair and refinish certification tests

Job Opportunities and Salary Expectations

Over the next decade, Kentucky is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 0% increase in this field from 2020-2030, indicating stability in the field.

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Kentucky earned an average salary of $36,870 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists earned $47,120 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $44,470 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual salary of $36,460.

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Kentucky by Region

RegionTotal EmployedMean Hourly WageMean Annual Salary
Bowling Green, KY340$18,77$39,040
Elizabethtown-Fort Knox, KY310$18,62$38,730
Lexington-Fayette, KY1,230$20,31$42,250
Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN3,010$21,01$43,700
Owensboro, KY220$20,14$41,900

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Kentucky

Working as an auto mechanic in Kentucky can be a rewarding and lucrative endeavor. With the right level of education, you can be on your way to a successful career in automotive repair services. The educational options outlined here will provide you with the knowledge and certifications necessary to become an expert in this field. So if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career, consider becoming an auto mechanic in Kentucky!

Sources:

  1. http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ky.htm
  2. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
  3. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm