Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Oklahoma City
If you are interested in becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Oklahoma City, there are a number of steps that you need to take. The first step is to complete the proper educational requirements. An Associate degree or certificate program from an accredited institution will provide you with the necessary training and certifications needed to work as an automotive technician.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Oklahoma City
In Oklahoma City, you have the opportunity to work as an auto mechanic without needing a professional license. However, if you want to become an Automotive Service Technician, such as a master technician or service advisor, there are specific requirements and certifications that you must meet.
The first step is to enroll in a post-secondary program at one of the many accredited automotive programs offered in Oklahoma City. These programs provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the automotive field and become successful.
You can expect to learn about some of the following topics in an automotive service technology program:
- Electrical fundamentals
- Engine performance
- Brake systems
- Air conditioning systems
- Automatic transmissions
- Fuel injection systems
- Oil changes
- Engine repair
- Light duty automotive systems
- Manual transmissions
- Suspension systems
Auto Mechanic Schools in Oklahoma City
There are several post-secondary schools and community colleges in Oklahoma City that offer automotive service technology programs. If you’re looking to advance your skills in automotive technology, there are a number of options available that can help you reach your goals.
- Oklahoma Technical College. Offers a comprehensive program for Automotive Service Technology. This program prepares students to work as automotive service technicians and master technicians in the automotive field. Furthermore, OTC offers distinct diesel technology and industrial maintenance programs to provide specialized education.
- Metro Technology Centers. Located in downtown Oklahoma City, MTC offers a program for Automotive Service Technology. This program prepares students to work in the automotive industry as technicians and service advisors. The curriculum emphasizes technical skills including engine repair, electrical systems, manual transmissions, suspension systems and fuel injection systems.
ASE Certification
Achieving National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification gives automotive professionals a clear edge when it comes to job prospects and promotions. After passing various exams that test their knowledge of vehicle systems, certified individuals stand out from the pack as experts in the field.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Oklahoma City is expected to grow by 4% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Oklahoma City earned an average annual wage of $47,120 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $47,850. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $25,100 and $46,770 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Oklahoma City
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City, OK | 3,070 | $22,67 | $47,120 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Oklahoma City
Auto mechanics in Oklahoma City can find plenty of employment opportunities, from independent shops and dealerships to national repair chains. Service technicians who have achieved ASE certification are in high demand due to their expertise and specialized knowledge of the automotive field. With experience and education, you can look forward to a rewarding career as an auto mechanic in Oklahoma City.
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