How Do I Become an Agricultural Mechanic?

To become an agricultural mechanic, you will need to study the repair and maintenance of large machinery that is typically used in the field of agriculture. Generally, attending a traditional automotive repair vocational school is not sufficient. You will likely need to obtain a degree from an accredited four year college or university that features an agricultural science program. In some instances, you can become an agricultural mechanic with the proper experience working on a farm or in some type of agricultural facility. This experience should be extensive, and it should demonstrate your familiarity with the large, complex machinery that an agricultural mechanic is expected to repair and maintain on a daily basis.

Typically, regardless of work experience, you need to have formal education with machinery, especially the type of machinery found in agricultural facilities. Aside from light vehicles, the agricultural mechanic is expected to have advanced understanding of how harvesters, tractors, grainers, threshers, and various types of mills work. Depending on the type of agricultural facility, you may need to have an advanced familiarity with one type of machinery — dairy equipment for the extraction and pasteurization of milk, for example. Generally, one of the first steps to becoming an agricultural mechanic is to invest in a comprehensive set of tools suited to large industrial equipment.

Though some vocational schools offer coursework and, perhaps, even an associate's degree in agricultural science, the courses tend to be too limited and may not offer hands on experience. You need to find a program that offers a comprehensive education in agricultural science with a focus on the repair and maintenance of agricultural machinery. For example, in 2011, Fresno State University in California offers a four year degree in agricultural science, with several emphases, that culminates in a bachelor's degree.

To become an agricultural mechanic you must be educated in the basics of operating several types of agricultural facilities. You will then have specialized coursework that will train you to repair and maintain various equipment and that will prepare you for the licensing examinations that some states require to work as a mechanic. Often, larger universities that are located in areas with large numbers of agricultural facilities and farms have placement programs that can help you to find a position as a mechanic.

It is possible to become an agricultural mechanic without a formal education if you already possess extensive experience working on a farm or similar type of facility. Generally, the rule of thumb is that for every one year of college education that you lack, you should have one year of work experience to compensate. If you have four or more years of experience on a farm of any type, either corporate or family owned, and related experience with machinery repair, you may be able to apply for and receive a position as a mechanic.