How Long Does It Take to Become a Mechanic in Norfolk, Virginia?

“Accelerated education” is a program that is flexible enough to include all age groups. An Associate in Occupational Science with a concentration in Automotive Technology Service Management (AOS) degree traditionally takes over 2 years to complete. With accelerated education program and a choice of scheduling options, you could earn your AOS degree in just 21 months. This type of learning and degree-earning can put you on the fast track to a good job – and a better career – as a professional mechanic in Norfolk, Virginia.

Benefits of Accelerated Education

When considering the financing and scheduling of classes, most believe accelerated programs offer several benefits. Some accelerated programs actually cost less than traditional programs, and many of these programs are designed with convenient and flexible scheduling options to accommodate for non-traditional students, typically adult learners with full-time jobs and families. –Best Degree Programs

The biggest advantage of an accelerated learning program is this: You enter the workforce ahead of students enrolled in traditional programs. That means you’re earning while they’re still learning. Flexible scheduling allows students with families and even part-time jobs to attend required classes.

You Don’t ‘Learn Less’

The focus is on quality, not quantity. Kevin Ezzell is on the board of the Council for Accelerated Programs. He says accelerated programs are the future of higher education. “You accelerate the classroom experience, but you’re making sure that the outcomes at the end of the course are parallel to those at the end of a longer course.”

Mechanics in High Demand

Advanced mechanic skills are increasingly in-demand. Even the name, “mechanic” is becoming obsolete as companies need professionals familiar with computerized programs and mechanisms. Auto technicians are likely to find more good-paying jobs are available now than ever before.

“Technology is transforming blue-collar workplaces,” says CNBC. Thanks to needs for educated people familiar with the latest diagnostic tools, becoming a mechanic means you’ll have a profession that is ever-changing and challenging. As our economic growth continues (and Baby Boomers continue retiring), a skills-gap and worker-shortage is becoming very real. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates approximately 46,000 automotive service technicians will be needed through 2026.

What is an AOS?

An Associate in Occupational Science with a concentration in Automotive Technology Service Management degree includes classroom and hands-on training. Students will gain the knowledge and proficiency needed in an automotive diagnostics and repair service center.

Some of the classes include:

• Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles
• Basic Engine Repair
• Brakes
• Computer Applications
• Engine Performance
• Ethics in Accounting
• Industrial Psychology
• Light Duty Diesels
• Manual Drivetrain and Axles
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Principles of Speech
• Service Management
• Steering and Alignment
• Technical Writing
• Vehicle Electrical and Electronics
• Vehicle Heating, Cooling, and Environmental Control
• Vehicle Systems

In order to be successful, a professional mechanic needs the ability to manage customers and work with diverse cultures. You will develop a strong business foundation (financial and inventory management) and may be on the fast track for career advancement within your company as an Automotive Master Mechanic. With your AOS degree, you may even put the wheels in motion to someday own your own business.

Why wait?

Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) offers an Associate of Occupational Science in Automotive Technology with Service Management. For more information about this exciting program, connect with a helpful admissions counselor today.