Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Indianapolis
Are you looking to begin an exhilarating new career working with vehicles? Look no further than Indianapolis! The city is home to a variety of automotive dealerships, repair shops and training facilities, all offering excellent opportunities for aspiring automotive technicians or mechanics.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Indianapolis
Indianapolis does not maintain any mechanic licensing requirements. However, employers may require prospective technicians to supply evidence of educational attainment and technical experience.
An automotive technology program might cover some of the following topics:
- Engine repair
- Electronic systems
- Engine performance
- Truck chassis systems
- Auto maintenance
- Brakes
- Transmission/Transaxle
- Heating and air conditioning
- Fuel systems
- Electrical systems
- suspension systems
- Diesel electronics controls
Auto Mechanic Schools in Indianapolis
Individuals looking for an automotive technology program in Indianapolis should consider the following accredited institutions:
- Ivy Tech Community College. For a complete educational experience, students can select an associate degree in automotive technology that requires five semesters. There are also shorter certificates offered in specialized areas such as truck chassis systems, alternative fuels, collision repair and motorsports technology. Ivy offers the Toyota T-TEN program to train mechanics with certification for both Toyota and Lexus technicians – upon completion of their studies they have opportunities to be placed at these dealerships.
- Lincoln Tech. With only 29.5 credit hours of coursework necessary, the Indianapolis campus of Lincoln Tech’s certificate program offers a comprehensive introduction to engine repair and performance tuning, air conditioning systems, electrical components, brake systems and steering/suspension maintenance. Ultimately designed to arm our students with entry-level competencies in a service or repairs setting while allowing them continued education through on the job training opportunities.
ASE Certification
If you’re looking to prove your ability and mastery in auto repair, earning certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a great way to do it. To become certified by ASE, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge by taking one of their examinations. To maintain certification status, every five years individuals have the option to take additional exams or participate in recertification programs. With an ASE certification, you prove to employers that not only are your knowledge and skills in automotive servicing superior, but also your expertise within the field is highly regarded.
There are more than 40 ASE certification exams, some of which include:
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- School bus certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Indianapolis is expected to grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Indianapolis earned an average annual wage of $46,970 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $48,200. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $37,780 and $48,170 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Indianapolis
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN | 4,210 | $22,69 | $47,200 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Indianapolis
Auto mechanics in Indianapolis have an exciting opportunity to work for some of the top shops, dealerships and automotive companies in the area. With a wide range of employers from which to choose, auto mechanics can find a career that is both fulfilling and rewarding. From family-owned garages to big name car manufacturers, there are plenty of job opportunities available in Indianapolis.
In addition to employers, auto mechanics have the chance to further their careers through professional development and networking opportunities. From attending seminars and conferences to joining organizations like the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), learning more about automotive technology can help mechanics stay up to date with industry trends and techniques.
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