Auto mechanics work with their hands, use logic to solve problems, and enjoy paying attention to detail. If this sounds like you, you may want to consider a career as a mechanic.

Workers in this industry repair a wide variety of vehicles, and typically have the skills and knowledge to work on any part of an automobile. In addition, some mechanics specialize in a particular vehicle type, such as motorcycles or heavy equipment, while others focus on a particular type of repair work, such as transmission systems.

Alaska Auto Mechanic Schools

Those who want to become an auto mechanic may consider getting formal training to prepare for the job. There are three schools in Alaska offering education and training for a career as an auto mechanic.

  • University of Alaska Fairbanks: This school offers students a Certificate in Automotive Technology. Students participate in hands-on training to prepare for an entry-level position performing preventive maintenance inspections, diagnostics, working with electronics, and more.

  • University of Alaska Southeast: This school has two programs in Automotive Technology: Certification and Occupational Endorsement. The certificate course takes approximately one year to complete and coves electrical systems, engine performance, brakes, and more. Students graduate from either program prepared for an entry-level position as a mechanic.

  • University of Alaska Anchorage: They offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology. Students choose between two program options: General Automotive or General Motors ASEP. The program last four semesters and includes training on domestic and imported cars, light trucks, and vans.

What to Expect from Alaska Auto Mechanic Programs

Automotive technician students learn how to work on modern vehicles. They graduate with a working knowledge of:

  • Brake systems
  • Electrical/electronic systems
  • Engine diagnosis and repair
  • Fuel and ignition systems
  • Heating and air conditioning systems
  • Steering and suspension
  • Transaxles
  • Transmissions

Courses are accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Alaska Auto Mechanic Certification and Licensing

The state of Alaska does not require licensing for auto mechanics. However, ASE certification helps boost your chances of finding a good position in this career, as most top garages and service centers only employ ASE-certified auto technicians.

The Automotive Technician programs listed above are designed not only to prepare you for a career as a mechanic, but also to take and pass the ASE certification tests.

To work with refrigerants, you may also need an EPA 608 Technician Certification.

Resources for Auto Mechanics in Alaska

  • The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence provides practice tests, study guides, testing tips, and more.
  • The EPA provides information on Section 608 Technician Certification.

Metro Areas Rated for Popularity for:
Automotive Mechanics

Listed below are metro areas ranked by the popularity of jobs for Automotive Mechanics relative to the population of the city. Salary data was obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov

Metro Area
Jobs
Annual Median Salary
Fairbanks330$65,030
Anchorage1090$48,020

Sources:

  1. College Navigator, IES, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=AK&p=15.0803+47.0604, accessed September 3, 2016
  2. Test Prep & Training, National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, http://www.ase.com/Test-Prep-Training.aspx, accessed September 3, 2016
  3. Types of Section 608 Technician Certification, EPA US Environmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/section608/types-section-608-technician-certification, accessed September 3, 2016

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