The COVID-19 pandemic impacted industries in different ways. In the automotive industry, enrollment in mechanic schools and other skilled trade programs has increased. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology is a school in Jamaica, NY, offering academic programs and career services to help students prepare for automotive careers. Here, we’ll explain some of the reasons mechanic schools have seen increased enrollment post-pandemic.

Affordable School Option Without Huge Debt

One of the main reasons many students are turning to trade school programs over four-year college degrees is the affordability factor. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, enrollment in mechanic and repair trade programs increased 11.5% from 2021 to 2022, whereas before the pandemic, these areas were plagued by labor shortages.

Enrollment in four-year college programs has decreased while trade programs have increased because of the vast difference in the cost and amount of debt. Attending public or private universities can cost tens of thousands of dollars over a few years and can leave students with mounds of debt, while trade school programs typically cost less and leave you with less debt because they’re much shorter in length. Check out our Net Price Calculator to get an idea of what tuition at NYADI will cost you.

Promising Career Opportunities

Enrolling in a trade school program like a mechanic school or collision repair program can provide you with a range of promising career options and opportunities for advancement. You can start getting your ASE certification and later complete an associate degree if you want to expand your skill set. You will also benefit from a direct career path, meaning you don’t have to complete years of schooling to start working.

Becoming a mechanic also offers job security, as vehicles are necessary to many people’s lives and people will be needed to repair and maintain them. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is projected to show little or no change from 2021 to 2031. However, on average each year, 73,300 openings are projected over the decade, as older workers retire or switch industries. The demand for skilled workers like mechanics has also increased since the pandemic, which may lead to a change in job outlook. 

Favorable Salary

Many young people are drawn to trade jobs because of the salary potential. Skilled trade programs have seen increased enrollment since graduates can make good money while doing something they enjoy. ZipRecruiter reports that the average salary for a mechanic in the U.S. is $48,497 per year as of September 2023, but this will vary depending on factors such as location, skills, experience, and more. It’s possible to complete additional training and certifications to increase your salary as a mechanic. 

Why Study at NYADI?

If you think mechanic school is ideal for you, consider NYADI in Jamaica, NY. We are committed to helping students from all backgrounds prepare for careers in the auto industry, and we do that in a variety of ways, including:

• Accepting graduating high school students, adults, veterans, and students from non-traditional backgrounds
• A scholarship program for high school students
• Offering associate degrees and certificate programs
• Experienced instructors provide hands-on automotive training with a focus on practical skills
• Academic and career services to help you in and out of the classroom
• Financial aid is available to qualifying students
• Updated and well-maintained facilities, laboratories, and equipment
• One-on-one tutoring based on your specific needs
• Chances to earn industry certifications from leading manufacturers

NYADI is also the only college in NYC that offers an AOS degree in Diesel Technology, which is just another reason you should consider studying with us.

Request More Information About NYADI Today

Join the increased enrollment in trade school programs today and get started on your journey to a career as a mechanic. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology, based in Jamaica, NY, is an easily accessible mechanic school that is the place to prepare for your automotive industry career. Contact us today to request more information about our programs or read through our Frequently Asked Questions for further insight.