Automotive Mechanic Schools and Programs in Kentucky

Graduates of automotive technology programs can be found working as auto service technicians in a variety of environments, including commercial repair shops, corporate fleet maintenance, or the service departments of car dealerships. These programs teach students to use tools and diagnostic equipment to identify and repair problems with cars and light trucks, as well as to administer preventive maintenance to keep vehicles running smoothly. In commercial contexts, auto technicians may also be required to interact with customers, or complete paperwork and other administrative tasks.

Kentucky Auto Mechanic Schools

There are several options for Kansas students interested in pursuing a formal education in automotive technology. Here are three schools that offer training in the field:

• GateWay Community College: The automotive technology program at GateWay Community College offers two different tracks for students. The Certificate of Completion in Automotive Technology is a 51-credit-hour program that gives students basic instruction in all major automotive systems. The Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology program provides the same automotive instruction but also includes general education courses.
  
  
• Jefferson Community and Technical College: The automotive technology program at JCTC offers three different program tracks. The Technical Certificate track provides certificates in one of eight different automotive specialties. The Diploma track combines automotive instruction with basic general education requirements, and the AAS degree track requires more extensive general education coursework.
  
  
• Bluegrass Community and Technical College: BCTC also offers Certificate, Diploma, and Associate degree tracks. Certificate options include manual transmission technician, automatic transmission technician, brake repairer, engine repairer, suspension and steering, tune-up mechanic, automotive electrician, and automotive air conditioning mechanic.

What to Expect from Kentucky Auto Mechanic Programs

Students in automotive technology programs should expect to receive classroom-based and hands-on instruction in all major automotive systems, including:

• Engines and power train components
• Transmissions and transaxles
• Brakes, hydraulics and electronics
• Suspension
• Steering
• Electrical systems and automotive electronics
• Fuel and emissions control systems
• Heating and cooling systems
• Safety systems

In some cases, automotive tech programs give students the opportunity to gain on-the-job experience through internships with local employers or automotive manufacturers. This allows them to apply what they have learned in the program to real world service scenarios.

Kentucky Auto Mechanic Certification

Automotive technicians in Kentucky do not need a license to work in the field. However, some employers prefer to hire candidates who possess a formal certificate or degree.

The industry-standard ASE Certification is awarded by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence to experienced auto technicians who pass the ASE certification exam. In order to qualify for the test, techs must have at least two years of on-the-job experience, or a combination of one year of experience and a two-year degree from an accredited automotive tech program. Most automotive technology programs are designed to help prepare students for the ASE exam.

ASE also gives accreditation to qualified educational programs through its National Automotive Technician Education Foundation.

Resources for Auto Mechanics in Kentucky

• National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence -- ASE is a national organization that offers a certification exam for automotive technicians.