Missoula College
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Diesel Technology*
The Diesel Technology program at Missoula College is an instructional program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to service and repair diesel-powered trucks and heavy equipment.
Students study diesel engine theory in the classroom and acquire hands-on training in the shop as they work through specially assigned tasks, inspecting, troubleshooting, and servicing diesel engines, fuel systems, brakes, suspension and undercarriage, air conditioning, hydraulics, electrical systems, power trains and diesel-related auxiliary systems using a variety of hand tools, specialized instruments, and wiring diagrams, and computerized diagnostic equipment. Students also learn welding maintenance and repair.
As students work independently and in groups to complete each assigned task, they develop the communication, leadership, and analytical skills that are vital to succeed in today’s rapidly changing diesel technology field. Prospective students are encouraged to apply one year ahead of their planned time of attendance as this program often has a waiting list.
The Diesel Technology Curriculum
The Diesel Technology program at Missoula College is made up of the following classes:
- Electrical Systems
- Engine Service I
- Power Trains (UMCOT)
- Technical Mathematics
- Related Metals Processes III
- Welding Fundamentals
- Brakes, Suspension, and Undercarriage
- Hydraulics (UMCOT)
- Engine Service II
- Air Conditioning
- Fuel Systems
- Advanced Power Trains
- Welding Maintenance & Repair
Students are also required to take Introduction to Computers, Technical Mathematics, Interpersonal Skills in Workplace, and Intro to Technical Writing in order to meet the minimum 66 credit requirements of the Associate of Applied Science Degree program. Students may also take CDL Training as an elective credit and obtain their Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL). Students must finish each class and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, the equivalent of a “C” grade, in order to graduate.
Job Outlook
As the diesel industry continues to grow rapidly, job opportunities for qualified diesel mechanics is expected to increase 11% by the year 2020, as fast as average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists working in the United States in 2014 was $45,160, while the mean salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists employed in the state of Montana was $38,770 yearly and $18.64 hourly, 14% lower than the national average.
Graduates of the Diesel Technology program at Missoula College will have the skills, education, and training needed to succeed in this fast growing industry, servicing and repairing the diesel engine systems found in a variety of diesel-powered trucks and heavy equipment, including commercial trucks, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, and even diesel locomotives. Graduates can expect to secure entry-level employment at independent truck repair shops, heavy-duty construction companies, oil exploration companies, farms, ranches, train yards, mining companies, and logging companies.
The Two-Year Associate of Applied Science Degree
Missoula College offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science Degree in Diesel Technology. This program is Pell Grant eligible.
*The Diesel Technology Program has a one year waiting list.