What Education is Needed to Become a Motorcycle Mechanic?

<p>Prospective motorcycle mechanics could at one time find training as apprentices in a repair shop. While motorcycle mechanic apprenticeships are still an option, education at a community college or technical school is becoming more popular. Currently, there are certificate programs as well as 2-year associate's degree programs available in motorcycle repair. It should be noted that more complete programs could increase your chances of landing that all-important first job. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutMotorcycleAndSmallEngineMechanics">Important Facts about Motorcycle and Small Engine Mechanics</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td>Prerequisites</td><td> High school diploma or equivalent</td></tr> <tr><td>Online Availability</td><td> Available online, not common due to hands-on component</td></tr> <tr><td>Continuing Education</td><td> Training courses hosted by motorcycle manufacturers to keep up-to-date with newest technology and techniques</td></tr> <tr><td>Degree Fields</td><td> Motorcycle repair, small engine repair, small engine technology</td></tr> <tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $38,170 (<i>for all motorcycle mechanics</i>)</td></tr> <tr><td> Job Growth (2021-2031) </td><td> 4% (<i>for all motorcycle mechanics</i>)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---CertificateInMotorcycleRepair">Certificate in Motorcycle Repair</h3> <p>A certificate in motorcycle repair is typically a short program that introduces students to the fundamentals of motorcycle maintenance and repair. Students in these kinds of programs have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience as well as classroom instruction in theory. However, students enrolled in a certificate program will not be required to complete a general education curriculum in addition to their technical courses. This is the major difference between a certificate program and an Associate of Applied Science program. </p> <h3 id="section---AssociateOfAppliedScienceA.A.S.InMotorcycleRepair">Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Motorcycle Repair</h3> <p>The A.A.S. in Motorcycle Repair is a 2-year program that offers students in-depth preparation for becoming a motorcycle repair mechanic. Students enrolled in an A.A.S. degree program will gain extensive hands-on experience with motorcycles in addition to completing coursework in a traditional classroom setting. One or more general education courses are also required in topics such as English and mathematics. The A.A.S. may be more suited to students who wish to begin their own motorcycle repair business. Some of the courses taught in an A.A.S. motorcycle repair program include troubleshooting, motorcycle technology safety procedures and electrical systems.</p>