Where Can I Receive Auto Mechanic Training in Virginia?

Training and Career Information for Auto Mechanics in Virginia

An effective way to begin an auto mechanic career is to complete a training program and obtain a certificate or associate degree in automotive technology. There are a handful of schools throughout Virginia that offer these types of programs and can help train you to work on engines, brakes, transmissions and other parts of an automobile. You can also endeavor to obtain a certification credential from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This organization offers certification exams for several different types of technicians, including automobile, light truck and transit bus mechanics.

In May 2011, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) determined that approximately 19,010 auto mechanics were employed in Virginia. These mechanics were found to earn an average annual salary of around $42,000. The BLS also projects that jobs for auto mechanics will increase by 17% from 2010-2020.

Auto Mechanic Diploma Programs in Virginia

Blue Ridge Community College

• Program Name: Automotive Analysis and Repair Diploma
• Program Length: 2-years, full time
• Tuition: $141 per credit for residents; $332 per credit for nonresidents (as of summer 2012)
• School Type: 2-year, public; approximately 4,800 students (all undergraduate)
• Address: 1 College Lane, Weyers Cave, Virginia 24486-0080
• Phone: (540) 234-9261

Blue Ridge Community College offers a diploma program for prospective auto mechanics. This program includes opportunities to participate in cooperative education arrangements with local repair shops or dealerships that have been pre-approved by the school. Your coursework will include training in engine repair, vehicle inspection, climate control and automotive suspension.

Danville Community College

• Program Name: Automotive Analysis and Repair Diploma
• Program Length: 2-years, full time
• Tuition: $125 per credit for residents; $317 per credit for nonresidents (as of summer 2012)
• School Type: 2-year, public; approximately 4,400 students (all undergraduate)
• Address: 1008 S Main St, Danville, Virginia 24541-4004
• Phone: (434) 797-2222

Danville Community College will offer you both the theoretical and practical knowledge you will need to pursue a career as an auto mechanic. The school's automotive analysis and repair program will provide training in areas like emission control, engine overhaul, transmission servicing and fuel systems. In addition to your automotive technology coursework, you will also be required to take general education courses.

Auto Mechanic Degree Programs in Virginia

Northern Virginia Community College

• Program Name: Automotive Technology Associate Degree
• Program Length: 2-years, full time
• Tuition: $129 per credit for residents; $308 per credit for nonresidents (as of summer 2012)
• School Type: 2-year, public; approximately 50,000 students (all undergraduate)
• Address: 4001 Wakefield Chapel Rd, Annandale, Virginia 22003-3796
• Phone: (703) 323-3000

If you'd like to pursue an associate degree in automotive technology, you can find a program offered at Northern Virginia Community College. This program is designed to provide you with foundational training in all aspects of automotive technology and prepare you for a career as a technician. Your coursework is likely to cover transmission and engine service, brake service, suspension, electrical systems and power trains.

Tidewater Community College

• Program Name: Automotive Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree
• Program Length: 2-years, full time
• Tuition: $117 per credit for residents; $294 per credit for nonresidents (as of summer 2012)
• School Type: 2-year, public; approximately 32,000 students (all undergraduate)
• Address: 121 College Place, Norfolk, Virginia 23510
• Phone: (757) 822-1122

Norfolk's Tidewater Community College also offers an associate degree program designed for prospective automotive mechanics. This degree program will prepare you to begin a career as an auto mechanic and will also help prepare you to take the ASE certification exam. Additionally, Tidewater offers specialized training for mechanics interested in working with Hondas, Toyotas and Chryslers.