Trade Schools
If you have a passion for cars and want to transform that passion into a rewarding high-tech career, this page is for you.
Here we have compiled information about the best auto mechanic schools in your state and the programs they offer.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage reported by auto service technicians and mechanics in Montana was $41,740.
Before being ready to apply for your first position as an auto mechanic, you have to learn a few skills, such as:
- Performing diagnostic tests to identify mechanical and electrical problems in vehicles
- Conducting routine maintenance tasks
- Replacing worn and damaged parts
- Explaining vehicle problems to customers
- Maintaining records of the work performed
- Ensuring safety procedures are followed
- And more
Auto mechanic classes are available in person and online at several colleges across the state.
The programs can lead to a Certificate, Diploma, or Associate Degree and take between a few months and two years to complete.
To help you choose the program that fits your needs, on this page, we have compiled information about the best auto mechanic schools in Montana and the programs they offer.
1Montana Technological University
Montana Technological University is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offers top education as a leading STEM university.
The university also offers programs in nursing, health, and professional fields.
Courses Offered
The university’s catalog includes an Automotive Technology, A.A.S. program that offers students the opportunity to learn from industry-recognized instructors and participate in real automotive industry work.
Students have access to a lot of one-on-one instruction in a modern campus lab environment.
The instructors are up to date with industry training to allow students to be ahead of most technicians currently in the field.
Students receive both one-on-one and practical experience in a small class environment.
The ASE entry-level exams are offered to all students.
They also receive the following training and certification opportunities:
- Industry-recognized Snap-On certification on the Modis Edge scan tool, battery charging, and Digital Multimeters
- The EPA 609 Certification for R12, R134A and the new 1234YF refrigerant handling
- Light Duty Diesel training
- Hybrid and Electric Vehicle training
Contact Information
- Address: 1300 West Park Street, Butte, MT 59701
- Phone: 800-445-8324
- Website: https://www.mtech.edu
2City College at Montana State University Billings
About the School
The Automotive Technology program available at City College at Montana State University, Billings, offers the following credentialing options:
- Associate of Applied Science
- Certificate of Applied Science
The program is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation and provides key foundational knowledge of engine performance, electrical systems, transmissions, and drive trains.
Students have the opportunity to apply this foundational knowledge in lab settings to enhance their diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
Courses Offered
Students take classes such as:
- Auto Manual Drive Train/Axles
- Engine Theory
- Technical Mathematics
- Automotive Brakes
- Engine Rebuild Lab
- Automotive Engine Diagnostics
- Auto Engine Diagnostics Lab
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 1500 University Drive, Billings, MT 59101
- Phone: 406.657.2011 | 800.565.6782
- Website: https://www.msubillings.edu
3Montana State University Northern
About the School
Montana State University Northern offers an Automotive Technology program with B.S., A.A.S., and Minor options.
Students learn how to work with gasoline, diesel, and hybrid systems using the latest industry-standard tools and technology.
The program is built for hands-on learners who want a direct path to a career.
The university has a state-of-the-art training facility that includes over 20,000 square feet of lab space, full-service bays, and cutting-edge diagnostic tools like transformation and chassis dynamometers.
MSU-Nothern’s Automotive Technology program is accredited by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation for both Master Automotive Service Technician training and Automotive Service Excellence certification.
Students learn how to:
- Diagnose and repair gasoline, diesel, and hybrid systems
- Work with electrical, mechanical, and engine performance systems
- Use advanced diagnostic tools and industry-standard technology
- Prepare for ASE certification testing
Gain real-world experience through co-op education with professional automotive employers.
Contact Information
- Address: Havre, Montana, 300 13th Street West
- Phone: 800.662.6132
- Website: https://www.msun.edu
4Helena College
About the School
The Automotive Technology program at Helena College provides students with the opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree.
The program equips them with the skills to become certified and work in any shop with professional skills that will set them apart from the rest.
Those who have aspirations of owning their own shop also have the option to build some business courses into their academic plan.
The program is two years long.
Many students also choose to graduate with a Master ASE Certification.
Courses Offered
The curriculum consists of eight areas as defined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
Students graduate as skilled professionals ready to go to work.
An Automotive Technology C.A.S. option is also available and can be completed in two semesters.
The college also offers a Hybrid Vehicle Service Technology Certificate that requires 27 credits and includes classes such as:
- Introduction to Automotive Electronics
- Automotive Engine Repair
- Electrical/Electronic Systems
- Engine Performance
- Introduction to Hybrid Vehicle Technology
Contact Information
- Address: 1115 N. Roberts Street
- Phone: (406) 447-6900
- Website: https://helenacollege.edu
5University of Montana
About the School
The University of Montana offers a Department of Transportation Studies.
The following programs are available:
- Commercial Driver’s License
- Diesel Technology
- Heavy Operation Equipment
Courses Offered
The Diesel Technology program is designed to provide the regional workforce with credentialed, skilled, and competent diesel technicians.
Students in this program train to be diesel mechanics who repair trucks and heavy equipment.
Contact Information
- Address: 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812
- Phone: (406) 243-0211
- Website: https://www.umt.edu
6Great Falls College
About the School
Great Falls College offers workforce training programs that provide practical skills and knowledge for in-demand careers.
Students receive hands-on experience, industry-relevant coursework, and opportunities to earn credentials.
The programs help them enter the workforce and advance their careers.
More than 20 degrees and certificates are available at the college.
Courses Offered
The college’s catalog includes a Welding Technology and Fabrication program that offers the following degree options:
- Certificate of Applied Science – a one-year program
- Associate of Applied Science- a two-year program
Contact Information
- Address: 2100 16th Avenue South, Great Falls, MT 59405
- Phone: (406) 771-4300
- Website: https://www.gfcmsu.edu
7Montana State University
If you want to pursue a Mechanical Engineering degree, Montana State University offers you the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science.
Students in this program have many opportunities for hands-on experience, from studying in MSU’s computer-aided drafting, integrated manufacturing, and machining laboratories to their capstone senior projects that solve real-world design problems.
Courses Offered
Those who graduate from this program go into careers such as Aerospace, Automobile Manufacturing, Energy, National Laboratories, or Robotics.
The curriculum includes classes such as:
- Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
- Engineering Graphics Communications
- Physics I with Calculus
- Manufacturing Processes
- Circuits, Devices, and Motors
- Mechanical Engineering Materials
- Mechanical Component Design
- And more
Contact Information
- Phone: (888) MSU-CATS
- Website: https://www.montana.edu
8College of Western Idaho
Auto mechanic programs are also available at schools and colleges located in neighboring states:
College of Western Idaho offers an Automotive Technology program that provides students with high-quality, hands-on training that prepares them for a successful career.
Courses Offered
The comprehensive Automotive Technology program includes the following degree options:
- Basic Technical Certificate
- Advanced Technical Certificate
- Associate of Applied Science
The program focuses on hands-on experience and teaches students how to perform maintenance, light repairs, and parts installation on automobiles and light trucks.
The curriculum combines practical skills with advanced technical theory, preparing students for a high level of technical expertise.
Regardless of the degree options, students have the opportunity to tailor their education to meet career aspirations in the industry.
The programs take between one and two years to complete.
Costs vary depending on the chosen pathway.
The Basic Technical Certificate costs $10,659, while the Associate of Applied Science Degree costs $16,973.
Contact Information
- Address: P.O. Box 3010, Nampa, ID 83653
- Phone: 208.562.3000
- Website: https://cwi.edu
9Porter and Chester Institute
About the School
If you want to complete your training from the comfort of your home, you should also explore some online options.
Porter and Chester Institute offers an Automotive Technology Hybrid Electric Vehicle Program in Worcester.
Students are prepared to work in several automotive settings, such as an independent service center or a car dealership, in as few as 12 months.
The campus also offers hybrid and electric vehicle training.
There are two education delivery options currently offered:
- Blended Program- lectures take place online, labs take place on campus
- On-Ground Program- lectures and labs take place on campus
Students spend a lot of time in the school’s auto shops with scan tools, computer diagnostic oscilloscopes, emissions diagnostic equipment, computerized alignment machines, brake lathes, and more.
In addition to motor vehicle knowledge, students also learn auto technician soft skills that prepare them to interact with customers with professionalism.
Contact Information
- Address: 156 Boston Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06610
- Phone: (475) 273-2400
- Website: https://porterchester.edu
10Penn Foster
About the School
Penn Foster also offers an online Automotive Repair Technician program.
The program leads to a career diploma and can be completed in four months.
The online classes prepare students for auto repair jobs in a variety of settings, from repair shops to dealerships.
Students learn about engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, and electrical/electronic systems.
The program prepares students to sit for ASE Certification exams.
The online programs are flexible enough for students to finish them at a pace that works for them.
The online courses include:
- Automotive Repair Foundations
- Engine Repair
- Automotive Brakes
- Suspension and Steering
Contact Information
- Address: 200 Hickory Street, Scranton, PA 18505 USA
- Phone: 800-275-4410
- Website: https://www.pennfoster.edu
Schools Summary Table
Regional Salary in Montana
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billings, MT | 570 | $58,660 | $28.20 | $75,100 | $39,610 |
| Bozeman, MT | 330 | $61,060 | $29.36 | $78,500 | $44,270 |
| Great Falls, MT | 200 | $54,770 | $26.33 | $73,550 | $36,980 |
| Helena, MT | 200 | $56,650 | $27.24 | $75,230 | $37,840 |
| Missoula, MT | 290 | $58,300 | $28.03 | $75,590 | $37,360 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Final Thoughts
If you want to learn the skills needed for entry-level employment as an auto mechanic, the schools included in our list can get you ready for certification exams and entry-level employment in just a few months, through a combination of hands-on and classroom training.
Now that you have read our selection of the best auto mechanic schools in Montana, the next step is to continue the research and apply for the program that best fits your lifestyle.
