Forklift Mechanic Schools and Training Programs
Get information about schools for aspiring forklift mechanics, and learn about certificate, diploma and degree programs. Find out what factors you should consider when selecting a school. Schools offering Industrial Automation Engineering Technology degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
What You Need to Know
While postsecondary training is often not required for you to find a job as a forklift mechanic, it may improve your odds of employment. You can find training through diploma, certificate and associate's degree programs. Much of the training is hands-on, but some programs offer a few course you may complete online.
| Online | A few courses may be offered online |
| Programs | Certificates, diplomas and associate's degrees |
| Classes | Repairs for electronics, brake systems, fluid systems, engine repair, fuel systems, preventative maintenance, welding techniques, advanced electronics, hydraulics, mechanical systems, heating, cooling and ventilation, customer relations and management techniques |
What Forklift Mechanic Training Programs Are Available?
Postsecondary education might not be necessary for you if you're aspiring to become a forklift mechanic. High school training, apprenticeships and on-the-job training opportunities could all prepare you for employment without the need for completing a postsecondary educational program. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities will be better for you in the coming years if you have some formal education (www.bls.gov).
Certificate, diploma and associate's degree programs in heavy equipment repair can qualify you for positions in the industry. You can complete certificate programs in as little as one year, while diploma and associate's degree programs may take longer to complete, allowing you to specialize in particular areas of repair and possibly engage in internship opportunities.
What Courses Will I Take?
Through certificate programs, you can take courses in repairs for electronics, brake systems, fluid systems, engine repair, fuel systems, preventative maintenance and welding techniques. You can also learn to inspect, troubleshoot and diagnose problems with forklifts. Certificate, diploma and associate's degree programs in heavy equipment operation typically focus on repair techniques for a wide variety of vehicles, including backhoes, bulldozers, cranes, dump trucks and forklifts.
Diploma and associate's degree programs commonly expand on the topics covered in typical certificate programs, offering courses in advanced electronics, hydraulics and mechanical systems. These programs also include courses in heating, cooling and ventilation. Associate's degree programs may allow you to take courses in customer relations or management techniques, and typically include general education courses that could help you advance to a bachelor's degree program.
How Can I Select a School?
As an aspiring forklift mechanic, you might want to look for a program that offers onsite access to forklifts for hands-on training experiences. Internship opportunities could be useful, too, since they allow you to network professionally and gain experience in real-world repair situations.
Learning to repair forklifts is a largely hands-on experience, and you may find it difficult to find distance education programs that will prepare you for this work. However, through select schools, you could find programs that offer courses in the academic study of engines and hydraulics that can be completed through online lectures and exams.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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