Diesel Technology

At Midland College, earning an Associate of Applied Science for Diesel Technology prepares you for entry-level employment as a certified diesel mechanic who can diagnose, repair, and maintain diesel engines. From semi-trucks to shipping fleets, diesel mechanics need to have the necessary skill set to effectively perform their duties.

This program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). The curriculum is designed to prepare students for successful completion of the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) national certification.

Specific areas of training include electrical systems, electronic controls, brake systems, suspension and steering, heating and air conditioning, engine performance, engine repair, manual drive trains and axles, hydrostatic and automatic transmissions and diesel/automotive shop management.

Marketable Skills

Pursuing a degree in this field of study will provide marketable skills in these areas:

• Technical training – students will receive a core understanding of electrical systems, software programs, enterprise management, and word-processing
• Communication
• Operations analysis – Figuring out what a product or service needs to be able to do
• Reading Comprehension – reading work-related materials
• Critical thinking – Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
• Active Listening – Listening without interruption and asking good questions
• Speaking – Talking to others
• Service Orientation – Assisting people
• Judgment and Decision Making – Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
• Leadership
• Teamwork

Career Opportunities

Depending on the levels of education and experience achieved, possible career paths include:

• Shop Manager
• Diesel Parts Handler
• Machine Shop Professional
• Claims Adjuster
• Diesel Billing/Title Clerk
• Field Service Technician
• Rig Mechanic
• Truck Mechanic
• Locomotive Technician
• Ship Mechanic
• Marine Equipment
• Aviation Technician
• Natural Gas Compression Technician
• Fleet Manager

Demand

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects from 2014-2024, employment opportunities for diesel service technicians will increase by 12 %. This may be due to several factors, including the growing number of cars and trucks in operation, the improved longevity of vehicles and the increasing use of diesel engines in automobiles.

Did you know?

• Texas employs the most engine & other machine assemblers in the nation.
• Annual median wage in Texas: $37,000
• Hourly median wage in Texas: $17.71
• Engine assembler jobs increase by 2022: 19%

SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine
(wages will vary by location, employer, and experience)  

To be considered for a scholarship, please follow the link below:

General Scholarships