Bridging Communities
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Diesel Equipment Technology
The Diesel Equipment Technology program at Bridging Communities is designed to prepare students who are interested in employment in the automotive diesel repair industry as well as students who are planning to further their education by pursuing an Associates Degree or Undergraduate Certificate in the diesel program of a community college. The two-year program is a dual enrollment program that allows students to earn six high school credits and 28 college credits from Reynolds Community College.
Students observe live demonstrations and are guided by their instructors, as they learn, hands-on, how to properly inspect, diagnose, and repair diesel engines, diesel truck electrical systems, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, diesel power trains, chassis, suspension systems, diesel fuel systems, air brake systems, and air conditioning systems. Shop safety procedures are also discussed and practiced throughout the program.
By disassembling, inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and reassembling various diesel engines and their integrated auxiliary systems, using sophisticated diagnostic equipment, wiring diagrams, service manuals, hand tools, and power tools, students develop the mechanical aptitude and specialized skills necessary to inspect, test, service, and maintain today’s medium and heavy duty trucks and heavy equipment.
Students also learn about the value of teamwork and effective time management, as they work alone and in groups to complete every task assigned to them by their instructors in a proficient and timely manner. Ethics, integrity, and professionalism are also stressed throughout the program.
The Diesel Equipment Technology Program
The Diesel Equipment Technology program focuses on the following areas of study:
- Fundamental Shop Procedures
- Diesel Truck Electrical Systems
- Mobile Hydraulics & Pneumatics
- Diesel Power Trains, Chassis, & Suspension
- Diesel Engine Reconditioning
- Diesel Fuel Systems & Tune-Up
- Air Brake Systems
- Transportation Air Conditioning
Students are required to finish each class and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, the equivalent of a “C” grade, in order to graduate.
From Education to Occupation
Students who successfully complete the Diesel Equipment Technology program at Bridging Communities will be equipped with the skills, education, and training needed to gain employment as a qualified diesel mechanic in the medium and heavy duty diesel truck and heavy equipment repair industry. Graduates can expect to secure an entry-level position at diesel truck dealerships, heavy equipment dealerships, fleet shops, and independent service garages.
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 Virginia was $43,200 yearly and $20.77 hourly, just 4% lower than the national average.
The Undergraduate Certificate
Bridging Communities offers two Undergraduate Certificates in Diesel Equipment Technology. Each Undergraduate Certificate program is eligible for 15 transferable college credits. This program is available to high school students only.