Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Wisconsin
For those seeking a career as an auto mechanic or diesel and truck specialist, countless opportunities await in Wisconsin and across the nation. While no formal education is necessary to become a mechanic in this state, most pursue at least some degree of diploma program or certification class prior to gaining employment, allowing for further hands-on training from other skilled professionals.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Wisconsin
Wisconsin auto mechanics do not need to have a professional license. However, the Wisconsin Automotive Service Technician Certification Board does offer certification programs which certify auto mechanics as professional technicians.
Certification is voluntary and requires the applicant to have at least two years of work experience in an automotive service facility, pass an ASE-approved test, and submit a valid driver’s license.
Those looking to become an auto mechanic in Wisconsin should research programs offered at local technical schools or community colleges prior to entering the job market.
Auto Mechanic Schools in Wisconsin
A degree or diploma isn’t required for success in the auto service industry, but it’s a smart move to gain expertise and be more attractive to potential employers. To ensure you are getting quality education, search out training programs certified by NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation). For those still in high school looking for secondary educational opportunities related to automotive technology should look into AYES programs (Automotive Youth Educational Systems) that offer Course material tailored specifically towards them. Those interested in an automotive technician program should consider one of the following options:
- Fox Valley Technical College. In Appleton, students at Fox Valley can choose from a large number of automotive programs, including those that confer associate degrees, technical diplomas and certificates. Some examples of the programs are collision repair and refinishing, maintenance and light repair, diesel engine service, and diesel equipment technology and automotive service management.
- Milwaukee area Technical College. This educational institution provides a variety of automotive programs that are accessible to students across the country. From its express lube technician certificate program to its comprehensive associate degree in automotive technology. Not only does it offer diploma and technical diploma programs like the one in Automotive Maintenance Technician and Automotive Technology Maintenance & Light Repair, but also degrees from Ford ASSET and Mopar CAP at their Mequon campus.
- Waukesha County Technical College. If you are a student in the Waukesha area, there is no shortage of automotive training options to choose from. From earning your certificate in car basics or leadership to pursuing technical diplomas and degree programs like General Automotive Technology, Maintenance and Light Repair Technician, Diesel Equipment Mechanic or Diesel Equipment Technology – all these courses are available at Waukesha! On top of that, students can also select the GM ASEP program for furthering their knowledge base.
ASE Certification Exams
Possessing the ASE Certification is an esteemed accomplishment in the automotive industry. To acquire it, individuals must pass a difficult exam related to their area of expertise and maintain their certification every 5 years either by taking the test again or renewing it.
With over 40 Automotive service excellence certification exams, you have numerous options to choose from. Certification examinations 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 Outlook and Salary Expectations
Over the next decade, Wisconsin is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 1% decrease in this field from 2020-2030.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Wisconsin earned an average salary of $45,9700 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists earned $49,380 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $45,920 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual salary of $35,030.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Wisconsin by Region
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appleton, Wi | 680 | $21,39 | $44,480 |
| Eau Claire, WI | 490 | $21,87 | $45,490 |
| Fond du Lac, WI | 290 | $21,39 | $44,480 |
| 0Green Bay, WI | 800 | $21,94 | $45,630 |
| Janesville-Beloit, WI | 370 | $22,00 | $45,760 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN | 370 | $21,95 | $45,660 |
| Madison, WI | 1,510 | $22,03 | $45,820 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI | 3,610 | $22,19 | $46,150 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah, WI | 340 | $21,36 | $44,430 |
| Racine, WI | 450 | $22,87 | $47,560 |
| Sheboygan, WI | 290 | $21,95 | $45,660 |
| Wausau, WI | 400 | $21,88 | $45,500 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers numerous job opportunities in the automotive industry. Automotive service technicians can find employment in large cities such as Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay. Wisconsin also has a number of smaller towns that specialize in auto repair services.
Whether you are a novice to the industry or a seasoned veteran, Wisconsin has many options for automotive professionals. With numerous technical schools, certification programs and job opportunities available in the state, it is easy to find an ideal career path that fits your interest and goals. If you have a passion for working on cars and trucks, then becoming an automotive service technician in Wisconsin might be the perfect fit for you.
Source:
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm