Automotive & Trade Schools in Illinois

Attending Trade School in Illinois

There are a number of automotive mechanic schools in Illinois that will help you reach your career goals, regardless of the type of degree or certificate that you are pursuing. First of all, this is a result of the vast amount of trade schools in Illinois. Most noteworthy, there are some of the best trade schools in the nation like UTI and Lincoln Tech. Furthermore, there are a number of automotive schools in Illinois that are local community colleges and trade schools. Consequently, no matter what you are looking for, you are likely to find an option in Illinois. Above all, Illinois has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle and economy.

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Working as an Auto Mechanic in Illinois

To work as a mechanic in Illinois, you don’t have to have any particular certifications or degrees. Although, it will be far easier to find a job if you graduate from a program. As a result, many of the better mechanic jobs will go to ASE certified mechanics. Therefore, if you want the best mechanic job available, you will need to gain training and experience then pass the ASE certification test. While there is obviously a cost to become ASE certified, having this credential under your belt will likely be well worth it in the long run.

When you graduate from a trade school in Illinois with a degree or certificate, Illinois is a good place to find a job. This is the result of Illinois having the 5th most mechanic and technician jobs in the United States. On the other hand, job growth is not expected to be as high in Illinois as the rest of the nation as a whole. Regardless, the high amount of jobs in Illinois makes it a great place to start a career. Chicago is the third largest city in the US and Illinois is home to 36 Fortune 500 companies, which is the fourth most in the nation.

Not only are there many companies to work for, but also a lot of cars to service. Therefore, all signs point to a healthy job market for you as an auto mechanic. Pay will vary by location and the type of mechanic you become. For example, a diesel engine specialist will make about $15,000 more per year than a glass installer and repairer in Illinois. Auto body and general mechanics will fall somewhere in between, as seen in the chart below.

  • Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
    • Total in Illinois: 27,980
    • Average Hourly Wage: $21.66
    • Average Annual Wage: $45,060
  • Automotive Body and Related Repairers
    • Total in Illinois: 6,770
    • Average Hourly Wage: $22.99
    • Average Annual Wage: $47,810
  • Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
    • Total in Illinois: 400
    • Average Hourly Wage: $18.09
    • Average Annual Wage: $37,630
  • Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
    • Total in Illinois: 9,010
    • Average Hourly Wage: $25.30
    • Average Annual Wage: $52,630