Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Richmond
If you like working with your hands and working on cars, you may have considered becoming a mechanic. There are a variety of areas that you could apply your skills in the automotive industry, including service technicians, collision repairers, auto body workers, diesel mechanics and auto glass repairers and installers. Each of these areas has different requirements for entry-level positions; however, if you have the passion for this industry, the requirements are fairly easy to complete.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Richmond
General auto mechanics do not need to maintain a professional license in Richmond. However, the state of Virginia requires all mechanics working in the repair or maintenance of motor vehicles to have a valid driver’s license. Additionally, depending on the type of vehicles you will be servicing and repairing, you may need additional certifications and/or training.
An automotive service technology program offers aspiring students an opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of topics such as:
- Automotive analysis
- Electrical systems
- Brake systems
- Engine repair and maintenance
- Ignition system repair and diagnostics
- Carburetion and fuel injection systems
- Computer control systems
Auto Mechanic Schools in Richmond
While Richmond does not have any specific automotive technology schools or community colleges, there are many community college programs throughout the state that offer training in automotive technology. These programs may include both a classroom and hands-on component. Additionally, some employers also provide on-the-job training to entry-level mechanics.
ASE Certification
Achieving an ASE certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is a surefire way to boost automotive repair technicians’ value and esteem within their industry. This single test ensures that these professionals are well-versed in their field, making them extremely attractive to employers looking for quality hires. Passing this exam can be a major advantage when seeking employment opportunities or promotions within the auto repair sector!
The ASE offers more than 40 certification exams. Listed below are a few of the most popular ones.
- School bus certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Richmond is expected to increase by 2% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Richmond earned an average annual wage of $47,040 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $48,330. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $36,720 and $48,400 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Richmond
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond, VA | 3,000 | $24,01 | $49,950 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Richmond
Working as an auto mechanic in Richmond can be a satisfying career choice for those who have a passion for cars and the automotive industry. With the right certifications, education and professional skills, you can find a job that is both rewarding and financially beneficial. The key to success is having the drive to stay up-to-date on the latest technological advances in the industry and be willing to take on any challenge!
Sources:
- 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
- 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
ASE-accredited automotive programs near Richmond
The 18 schools below hold current accreditation from the ASE Education Foundation, the body that sets the standard for automotive training in the United States. Accredited means the programme has been checked against what shops actually need and is re-checked on a schedule. Distances are measured from Richmond.
| School | City | Distance | Programs accredited |
|---|---|---|---|
| J. Sargeant Reynolds Comm College | Richmond, VA | 0 mi | Automobile (post-secondary) |
| Advanced Career Education Center at Hermitage | Henrico, VA | 2 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| The ACE Center at Virginia Randolph | Glen Allen, VA | 2 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| The ACE Center at Virginia Randolph | Glen Allen, VA | 2 mi | Medium/Heavy Duty Truck (high school) |
| Hanover Center for Trades and Technology | Mechanicsville, VA | 6 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| Advanced Career Education Center at Highland Springs | Highland Springs, VA | 11 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| Chesterfield Career & Technical Center | Chesterfield, VA | 17 mi | Automobile, Collision Repair and Refinishing (high school) |
| Colonial Heights High School | Colonial Heights, VA | 26 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| Hopewell High School | Hopewell, VA | 26 mi | Collision Repair and Refinishing (high school) |
| Bridging Communities Regional Career & Technical Center | New Kent, VA | 28 mi | Medium/Heavy Duty Truck (high school) |
| Petersburg High School | Petersburg, VA | 31 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| Louisa County High School | Mineral, VA | 36 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| Spotsylvania Career & Technical Center | Spotsylvania, VA | 41 mi | Automobile, Collision Repair and Refinishing (high school) |
| Rowanty Technical Center | Carson, VA | 42 mi | Automobile, Collision Repair and Refinishing (high school) |
| Northern Neck Technical Center | Warsaw, VA | 45 mi | Automobile, Collision Repair and Refinishing (high school) |
| Brooke Point High School | Stafford, VA | 53 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| Gloucester High School | Gloucester, VA | 55 mi | Automobile (high school) |
| North Stafford High School | Stafford, VA | 57 mi | Automobile, Collision Repair and Refinishing (high school) |
Accreditation status is taken from the ASE Education Foundation. Programmes whose accreditation has expired are excluded. Check current status with the school before you apply.