Completing a mechanic trade school program is an excellent way to improve your earning potential and open new job opportunities. To make the most of your new career, it’s important to be careful when choosing a school. Pennco Tech is a trade school with campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ, that provides hands-on automotive training programs. Here, we discuss factors to consider when comparing mechanic trade schools, to help you make an informed choice.
How Long Is the Program?
The first feature to consider is program length. While you want to finish training and start earning as quickly as possible, you should also be wary of programs that seem extremely short. These may not be long enough to cover all the skills necessary to earn a certification, impress an employer, and work confidently in your first job placement.
Instead of simply enrolling in the shortest program you can find, look for one that you can complete relatively quickly while still learning everything you need. Pennco Tech’s automotive technology and diesel technology programs take as few as 40 weeks to complete. You’ll graduate and start applying to job placements within the year, after learning everything you need to know to get started.
Are Class Schedules Flexible?
Even short programs can be difficult to schedule around, especially with family responsibilities or a current job. You may not be able to justify dropping obligations or losing out on earnings, even if the result will lead to better opportunities. This is why Pennco Tech offers convenient class times at night or on weekends. This helps students pursue their studies within their busy schedules.
When Can I Enroll?
You’ve found a program that’s short and flexible enough for your schedule – but when can you enroll? Some programs have narrow enrollment windows that may be easy to miss while keeping track of other areas of life. If you miss the window, you may be unable to try again for up to a year.
Pennco Tech, on the other hand, has rolling admissions. Our enrollment is always open to students ready to learn. Once you’re accepted, you can start training when the next program starts.
Do Instructors Have Real-World Experience?
You also want to make sure that the education you receive will be high quality. When learning a hands-on trade like auto mechanics, you want instructors who teach from real-world experience. This experience gives them a personal understanding of the industry, its expectations, and its most recent developments. They pass this understanding on to their students for a stronger education than mere textbooks and theory could provide.
What Skills Are Included in the Program?
You also want to evaluate the curriculum. Mechanics need a wide range of skills in their day-to-day work. To complete your job efficiently and with confidence, you’ll need all of them. The program at Pennco Tech is designed to teach all essential skills, including:
- Detecting and diagnosing mechanical problems
- Using computerized and analog diagnostic scan tools
- Servicing transmissions, power steering, brakes, and electrical systems
- Working with specialized air conditioning equipment
- Hybrid and electric vehicle repair
- Using Mitchell OnDemand and ALLDATA shop manual programs
What Tools and Equipment Do Students Work With?
Pennco Tech teaches using current industry equipment. This is invaluable, as the automotive and repair industries are constantly evolving. New innovations transform not just the vehicles you will service, but also the means you use to service them. Without up-to-date training, it’s easy to get left behind. Pennco Tech stays on top of industry trends to let students practice with the tools they’ll use in the workplace.
What Certifications Do Students Earn?
Your ultimate goal with an auto mechanic class is a new job. While Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications are not required to work as a mechanic in most areas, they are a valuable way for committed technicians to demonstrate their competence. Employers and customers may also base their decisions on the certifications held by a prospective hire. This is why Pennco Tech encourages students to earn ASE certification and improve their professional credentials.
Does the School Help With Job Placement?
We also support students after graduation with career services. All students have access to the following assistance to help them secure their first job placement:
- Customized job search strategies
- Resume and cover letter writing assistance
- Interview technique coaching
- Connecting graduates with potential employers
- Professional development workshops
- Job fair advertisements
These services are available throughout an alumni’s lifetime. Whether you graduated last year or several years ago, you can trust Pennco Tech to help you find a job.
How Much Does It Cost and Is Financial Aid Available?
The final factor for consideration is cost. A mechanic training program can be considered an investment in your future, opening the door to better earning opportunities. However, some people need help paying for an education. That is why Pennco Tech offers financial aid to students who qualify. Loans, grants, and scholarships alleviate part of the financial burden, helping you focus on your studies.
Enroll in Mechanic Trade School Today
Start training for your new career by enrolling at Pennco Tech. Our rolling registration is always open to students in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ, helping them take the first step toward better opportunities. Contact us today to learn more about how our mechanic trade school stands out.