Del Mar College

Diesel Applied Technology  

By combining classroom instruction with practical hands-on training, the Diesel Applied Technology program at Del Mar College offers students a basic understanding of diesel theory and allows them to develop the skills needed to become qualified diesel technicians in today’s fast-paced diesel repair field. Students are trained and mentored by industry experienced, ASE Master Certified instructors who have been recognized by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

In the classroom, students receive in-depth lectures on diesel theory and learn the basics of the diesel engine system, including heavy duty truck systems, medium/heavy duty truck engines, and fuel and computerized management systems. Through lively class discussions, detailed study materials, and written assignments, students develop critical thinking and reasoning skills, sharpen their communication skills, and strengthen their comprehension in both mathematics and technical writing. Topics of discussion include gear ratios, U.S. Standard and Metric measuring systems, effective shop management, and more.

In the training shop, students observe live demonstrations and gain practical hands-on training, carefully guided by their instructors, as they learn how to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair diesel engines, fuel systems, brake systems, electrical systems, electronic control systems, suspension systems, steering systems, tracks and undercarriages, power trains, hydraulic systems, and automotive climate control systems. Students also acquire valuable hands-on experience in tractor trailer service and repair, as well as proper preventive maintenance and inspection procedures. 

Using shop manuals, hand tools, power tools, sophisticated diagnostic machines, gauges, wiring diagrams, lab scopes, and more, students disassemble, inspect, diagnose, repair, and reassemble diesel engines and their integrated system components, learning, hands-on, how to properly perform diesel engine rebuilds and tune-ups.

Each student will strengthen their mechanical aptitude and develop important analytical, technical, and problem solving skills. Students will also be expected to practice shop safety and effective time management as they complete each task assigned to them by their instructors with proficiency and speed. Work ethics, professionalism, and maintaining a positive workplace attitude will also be stressed throughout the Diesel Applied Technology program at Del Mar College. 

What to Expect After College 

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 Texas was $43,720 yearly and $21.02 hourly, just 3% lower than the national average.

Students who successfully graduate from the the Diesel Applied Technology program at Del Mar College can be confident that they possess the education and training necessary to secure an entry-level position as a qualified diesel mechanic in the diesel-powered truck and heavy equipment maintenance and repair industry. Occupational opportunities include, but are not limited to, the agricultural industry, commercial trucking industry, construction industry, oil and natural gas exploration and extraction industries, and the manufacturing industry, as well as working for independent repair shops.

The Associate in Applied Science Degree and Undergraduate Certificate

Del Mar College offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree in Diesel Applied Technology. Del Mar College also offers a one-year Diesel Systems Specialist Undergraduate Certificate, as well as a Diesel Engine Specialist Undergraduate Certificate. All three programs are Pell Grant eligible.