Learning mechanics from a trade school opens up multiple career options. However, mechanic programs can take varying amounts of time to finish depending on the courses and schedules, often between six months and two years. Pennco Tech offers career training programs, including Automotive Technology, at campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ. Here, we discuss how long our mechanic school is and the benefits of completing it.

How Long Is Mechanic School at Pennco Tech?

Our Automotive Technology program is offered during the day and evening. This flexibility allows students to adapt their classes according to their lifestyles and needs. However, the schedule you choose will impact your completion time. Automotive Technology is 40 weeks long (10 months) for day classes and 100 weeks long (25 months) for night classes.

The Automotive Technology program offers aspiring mechanics the chance to learn from highly experienced instructors in a supportive environment. Lessons cover a variety of topics, including using computerized diagnostic equipment, troubleshooting issues, and working on electrical systems. Upon graduation, students are encouraged to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) test to become certified.

Skills Taught in Our Automotive Technology Program

The Automotive Technology program instructs students in many core skills needed to become a mechanic and compete in the automotive field. They include:

Core Mechanical Skills

Many skills are required for a mechanic career, such as:

• Repair and maintenance on gasoline, diesel, and hybrid engines
• Working on and maintaining brake systems
• Running diagnostics and repairing electrical systems
• Handling maintenance requests
• Performing tire alignments

Students will also need to become familiar with electric vehicle (EV) systems, as the shift toward more sustainable technologies makes them more common.

Soft Skills

Auto mechanics often encounter complex situations that require analytical and communication skills, such as creative solutions for repairing vehicles and ensuring smooth communication with clients and customers. Therefore, aspiring mechanics need to know how to identify the problem and find the best solution. Our program teaches essential soft skills, such as:

• Attention to detail: This is essential for running an accurate diagnostic test on vehicles and identifying the right solution.
• Time management: This is crucial for efficiently completing repairs and maintenance and meeting project deadlines.
• Strong communication: This is vital for discussing vehicle repairs and costs with clients, building trust, and gaining repeat business.

Advantages of a Career as a Mechanic

There are many benefits to pursuing a career as a mechanic. They include:

Consistent Job Security and Demand

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of mechanics and automotive technicians is expected to grow by 4% every year until 2033. This high demand for automotive mechanics is driven by the need for skilled mechanics to repair modern vehicles, including electric and hybrid models

Competitive Pay

The average salary for an entry-level technician and mechanic was $49,670 as of May 2024, according to BLS. Certified mechanics and specialists have higher earning potential, as do those who update their skills with continuing education. The average salary for a mechanic in Pennsylvania is $52,690 per year and $59,270 in New Jersey.

Advancement Opportunities

Mechanics may be able to advance their careers by specializing in different areas, such as:

• General mechanics, focusing on repairing and maintaining cars and light trucks.
• Motorcycle mechanics, which specializes in mopeds, dirt bikes, and motorcycles.
• Big rig mechanics that primarily works with diesel vehicles, such as semis, tractor-trailers, buses, and large work trucks. Pennco Tech offers a Diesel Technology program at the Blackwood, NJ, campus that can be completed in 40 weeks.
• Recreational vehicle (RV) mechanics, which concentrate on fixing RVs and their interior components.

Obtaining further certification through the ASE Master Technician exam can enhance credentials and employment opportunities. Experienced mechanics can also run shops as supervisors, service managers, or even open their own shops. Other possible positions include:

• Maintenance technician
• Estimator
• Operations supervisor
• Parts manager
• Body shop manager

Learn More About Mechanic School at Pennco Tech

Becoming an automotive mechanic is a worthwhile career. If you’re looking for a quality training program, turn to Pennco Tech. We offer financial aid to qualified students and help with future employment opportunities via our career services. To learn more about how long it takes to complete mechanic school or about other career training programs offered at our campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ, please contact us today.