How Can I Study Online for a Hands-on Job in the Automotive Industry?
Are you interested in a career as a mechanic, or are you already a mechanic and are looking to increase your skills or obtain a certification? Believe it or not, you can learn the skills you need online! Learn how in this blog post!
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You may think gaining the skills to become an automotive technician, diesel mechanic or motorcycle repair technician is something you have to do in the garage, but this isn’t necessarily true. You may already have a job and a family and aren’t able to dedicate as much time as you’d like to in-person training.
Fortunately, you don’t have to. Online programs do exist for mechanics, automotive technicians and other hands-on careers, and they prepare adults like you to get real jobs in the automotive industry.
How online study works for hands-on jobs
Hands-on experience is certainly important, but you need a breadth of theoretical knowledge before you actually get your hands greasy. Online study is a convenient way to get that knowledge.
Penn Foster's online auto programs allow you to learn about how engines work, how to fix them, and how to stay safe on the job. Whether you’re using a laptop, phone, desktop computer or tablet, lessons are available 24 hours a day, wherever you are.
Building your theoretical knowledge will help prepare you for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Penn Foster’s Automotive programs can help you with this. Passing ASE exams for your area of interest helps you improve your career prospects. At the same time, it lets clients and employers know that you are qualified in your field, especially since more and more employers are looking for certified workers, according to Bob Schafer, skilled trades instructor at Penn Foster. He shares that “more and more in the trades industry, you're going to see some kind of certification being needed for employment, whether it's ASE-type certifications or electrical ones.”
If you want hands-on experience, there is a work-experience option that allows you to arrange for and gain real-world experience with a local employer. It’s not required, but it is a great way to capstone your online studies once you’ve completed the program.
Read more: Can I Get ASE Certified Online?
The advantages of studying online
Studying online has some clear advantages over a traditional brick and mortar school setting. These advantages are especially valuable for people who already have jobs or families that might prevent them from attending an in-person class.
Study on your schedule - Most people don’t have the luxury of putting their life on pause to pursue education. Studying online means you can study after work, before the kids get home from school, or even while you’re waiting for the bus.
Go at your own pace - Everybody learns differently. As an online student you can go as quickly or as slowly as you need, ensuring that you fully understand the material before you move on to the next topic.
Expand your skills - If you’re already a mechanic but want, you can learn the essentials without missing a day of work. Penn Foster’s programs help prepare you to take ACE exams in specialties to help set you apart.
Read more: 3 Reasons to Become a Diesel Mechanic
What online mechanic programs are available
If you know you want to get involved with automotive repair but aren’t sure exactly which program would be best for you, these are the programs Penn Foster offers:
Auto repair technician - In as little as four months,* you can complete online Auto Repair classes. You’ll gain the knowledge to work in repair shops and car dealerships. Learn about automotive systems, engine components, engine rebuilding, maintenance procedures and more. You’ll also get to know the steps to earning your certification in automotive repair. As a bonus, you’ll have access to a student discount from Snap-on tools.
Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance Career Diploma - From diesel engines to computerized truck management systems, you’ll learn how to operate and repair diesel engines and heavy trucks. This diploma will prepare you to take the ASE Certification Medium-Heavy Truck Test. You’ll also get a student discount from Snap-on tools to help set you up for your career.
Motorcycle Repair Technician Career Diploma - Work on motorcycles of all sizes and models after you build knowledge of two-stroke and four stroke engines, ignition systems, suspension, brakes and everything else that keeps a motorcycle running. Not to mention you’ll have a student discount from Snap-on Tools.
Small Engine Repair Career Diploma - Learn fundamental mechanical concepts including cooling, electrical, and fuel systems, servicing lawnmowers, tractors, and electric/cordless power equipment, and more with this online program. You’ll also prepare for the optional Outdoor Power Equipment Association (OPE) certification as well as receive a discount for Snap-on tools.
Read more: Is Becoming a Diesel Mechanic a Good Career?
Where online automotive programs can take you
When you’re done with your automotive program you’ll be academically prepared to take the ACE exam and pursue any required state or regional certifications. From there you can start looking for a job in automotive repair, diesel and heavy truck maintenance or motorcycle repair. To learn more about these Penn Foster programs, you can request information or call our admissions department at 1-800-275-4410.
* The estimated completion time for this program is based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from May 2021 - October 2022, excluding withdrawals.
