Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Wichita
Ready to start a career as an auto or truck mechanic in Wichita? All you need is the enthusiasm and commitment to learn. While having educational qualifications isn’t necessary, it does give you a competitive edge when looking for employment. With that said, getting certified can open more doors for job opportunities with higher paychecks! And once employed, your training will be ongoing so don’t worry if you feel unprepared.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Wichita
Working as an auto mechanic in Wichita does not require you to obtain a professional license. However, having certification from a reputable organization like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) will certainly be an advantage when looking for employment.
Before applying for certification, you’ll need to have a basic knowledge of auto mechanics and systems. If necessary, enroll in an automotive training program through community colleges or technical schools. An automotive technology program might cover some of the following topics:
- Engine performance
- Engine repair
- Electronic systems
- Manual drive train
- Air conditioning
- Brakes
- Suspension and steering
Auto Mechanic Schools in Wichita
There are several schools in Wichita that offer various automotive programs to help you prepare for certification. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Butler Community College. Offers a certificate program in automotive technology. Our courses are available in a variety of delivery formats, including face-to-face, blended and online.
- Wichita State University. Formerly known as the Wichita Area Technical College, this school offers programs in automotive technology including: Automotive Service Technology and Alternative Fuel Maintenance & Advanced Electronics.
ASE Certification
Show off your automotive repair expertise by becoming ASE certified! Applicants must successfully pass a specialized ASE exam in order to achieve certification, and those who stay certified for five consecutive years can either take another test or apply for recertification via special programs.
If you are looking to receive an ASE Certification, there is a multitude of tests that can help you reach your goal. With more than 40 exams ranging from:
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- School bus certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Wichita is expected to decrease by 1% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Wichita earned an average annual wage of $40,070 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $47,860. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $39,620 and $45,210 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Wichita
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita, KS | 1,320 | $20,75 | $40,070 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Wichita
Wichita has a thriving and vibrant auto repair industry, so there is no shortage of job opportunities for qualified mechanics. With the right certification and work experience, you can expect to find employment quickly.
The auto repair industry also provides great opportunities for advancement. With more experience and training, you can move up in the ranks from technician to service adviser or shop manager. You might even become a business owner one day!
Sources:
- Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm