Top Mechanic Schools Offering Small Engine Repair Programs
Small engines power motorcycles, motorboats, and outdoor power equipment; just like larger engines, they break down and require skilled technicians to service and repair them. Training programs are offered by community college and technical schools across the country. Read on for more information.
<h3 id="section---WhatIsASmallEngineRepairProgram">What Is a Small Engine Repair Program?</h3>
<p>Small engine repair programs teach students how to maintain and repair small engines, such as those used in lawn equipment, watercraft and motorcycles. Training programs are offered at community college and vocational schools, and completing a program generally awards a student a diploma or a certificate. Programs teach students the hands-on skills they need to become a small engine mechanic. Some programs may take only a few months to complete, while others can take up to a few years and may include an internship. Below are some schools that offer small engine repair programs.
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<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutSmallEngineRepairPrograms">Important Facts About Small Engine Repair Programs</h3>
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<table border="1"><tr><td> Prerequisites </td><td> High school courses in shop, math and mechanics helpful</td></tr>
<tr><td> Online Availability </td><td> No, most programs require hands-on time in the shop</td></tr>
<tr><td> Work Environment </td><td> Dealer service shops, independent service and repair shops</td></tr>
<tr><td> Key Skills </td><td> Manual dexterity, arm-hand steadiness, control precision</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $39,050 (<i>for small engine mechanics</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 5% (<i>for small engine mechanics</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---AlexandriaTechnicalCommunityCollege">Alexandria Technical & Community College</h3>
<p>Alexandria Technical & Community College (ATCC) was founded in 1961 and is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. ATCC's marine and small engine mechanic program balance classroom instruction with practical hands-on work. The ATCC curriculum develops mechanics who can work on lawn and garden equipment, snowmobiles, motorboats and motorcycles. The program blends mechanical courses with classes in mathematics, business and communications. Graduates earn a diploma, and the program takes two years to complete. Some classes included are:
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<ul><li>Snowmobile
</li><li>Four-cycle engine service and rebuild
</li><li>Marine fuel systems
</li><li>Two-cycle engine service and rebuild
</li><li>ATV
</li></ul><h3 id="section---DeltaCollege">Delta College</h3>
<p>Delta College in University Center, Michigan offers a small engine repair program focused mostly on garden and lawn equipment. The program awards a certificate after graduation. The curriculum includes how to repair and maintain gas-powered engines as well as fuel and electrical systems. The program also prepares students to pursue certification as a Certified 4 Stroke Engine Technician from the Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC).
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<h3 id="section---DelawareTechnicalCommunityCollege">Delaware Technical Community College</h3>
<p>Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) offers a small engine repair certificate. The program includes two classes, Small Engine Repair I and Small Engine Repair II. These courses cover operation, troubleshooting, maintenance procedures and safety. The program also covers different engine designs and how to diagnose, inspect and overhaul systems.</p>