Diesel Equipment Technology

The Diesel Equipment Mechanic technical diploma is a one-year program designed to prepare an entry-level diesel technician. The 32-credit program covers over the road, off road and stationary applications emphasizing the fundamentals and repair of diesel engines and basic diesel vehicle systems. These systems include brakes, steering & suspension, heating, cooling and electrical systems. Diesel equipment mechanic courses make up the first year of the Diesel Equipment Technology associate degree. Those wishing to further their education can continue on for another year to obtain an associate degree in Diesel Equipment Technology.

Gainful Employment Information

The Diesel Equipment Technology associate degree is a 70-credit program that focuses on the operational fundamentals and repair of diesel engines and diesel vehicle systems. The program covers over the road, off road and stationary applications. Technical skills will be developed in diagnostics and repair of advanced engine and system controls. Students will have an advanced understanding of electrical operations, computer controls, advanced engine controls, preventative maintenance and diesel fuel systems.

Diesel service technicians and mechanics inspect and repair any vehicle with a diesel engine including buses, trucks, agricultural, construction and marine equipment. They perform routine maintenance such as oil changes as well as, diagnosing and repairing failed components. Diesel repairs can include the vehicle’s electrical system, major engine repairs and retrofit engines with emission control systems. Diesel service technicians can work for trucking companies, local government, agricultural and construction equipment dealers, marinas and motor vehicle and parts wholesalers. Diesel Equipment Mechanic technical diploma program graduates can obtain entry-level service technician positions. Graduates of the Diesel Equipment Technology associate degree can find higher paying careers that are focused on diagnostics of diesel systems and preventative maintenance.

The Horizon Center is a state-of-the-art facility that jointly serves college and career professionals. The new 12,800-foot Advanced Propulsion lab provides solid and nationally recognized diesel equipment training that focuses on over the road trucks, agricultural, construction and marine type equipment. Through a partnership with Snap-on Incorporated, the Horizon Center houses the most up to date Snap-on equipment. Students will learn how to use the newest Snap-on diagnostic devices and obtain Snap-on certifications as well.

Throughout the program, students visit local industry and performance shops to gain further insight in to the diesel repair industry.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow by 15 percent through 2020. Annual salary ranges and are dependent on experience and level of education completed. The median annual salary of diesel service technicians and mechanics was $44,520 in 2015. Many technicians employed by truck fleet dealers and independent repair shops also receive commission related to labor costs charged to customers.

Students will learn how to use the newest Snap-on diagnostic devices and obtain Snap-on certifications as part of the program including Snap-on diagnostic NEXIQ certification. These certifications will make students more marketable to potential employers.