Central Texas College

Diesel   

The Diesel program at Central Texas College is designed for individuals who are planning to pursue a career in the diesel repair field. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, giving students an in-depth understanding of the various systems that work together to create the entire diesel engine system, including engines, brakes, hydraulics, suspension, electrical, electronics, power trains, and more.

Using the latest technologies and industry techniques, instructors with a combined 32 years of industry experience, train students for employment in the three main sectors of the diesel repair industry, including the truck/transportation, construction, and agricultural sectors. By the end of the program, students will be prepared to take the Medium/Heavy Truck certification exams administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

In the classroom, students develop skills in reading, written communication, computation, and critical thinking. Through in-depth lectures, class participation, and written assignment, students gain a basic understanding of diesel engine theory, including the design, functions, and the principles of operation of the diesel engine system. Topics of study include gear ratios, cubic inch displacement, U.S. standard and metric measuring systems, shop operations, tools and equipment, engine fundamentals, and more. Interactive computer-aided training is also used to enhance certain courses.

In the state-of-the-art lab, students obtain job-specific hands-on experience, as they learn how to properly diagnose, repair, and service diesel engines, auxiliary systems, air and ABS brake systems, electrical systems, electronic systems, automatic and standard power trains, mechanical and electronic fuel systems, cylinder heads, hydraulic systems, steering and suspension systems, and air conditioning systems. Preventative maintenance and applications in welding for diesel mechanics are also taught.

By disassembling, inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and reassembling various diesel engines and their intricate system components, using computerized diagnostic equipment, technical manuals, wiring schematics, electronic multi-meters, precision measuring tools, power tools, machine tools, and hand tools, students gain a basic hands-on understanding of diesel engine and heavy equipment repair procedures.

Working both independently, and in teams, students learn the importance of interpersonal communication and effective time management, completing each assignment given to them by their instructors with accuracy, thoroughness, and precision. By the end of the training program, students will be highly knowledgeable about OSHA safety standards, be able to complete the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification tests, and be able to correctly complete a job application and write an effective resume.

College and Beyond 

Graduates of the Diesel program at Central Texas 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 medium and heavy-duty truck and equipment service and repair industry. Occupational opportunities include, but are not limited to, the truck transportation industry, automotive repair and maintenance facilities, the construction industry, the agricultural industry, the manufacturing industry, automotive leasing, and retail and wholesale trade.

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.

The Associate in Applied Science Degree and Certificate of Completion

Central Texas College offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree in Diesel with a Diesel Engine Mechanic & Repairer concentration. Central Texas College offers a one-year Diesel Technician Certificate of Completion. Finally, Central Texas College also offers a 9-month Diesel System Specialist Certificate of Completion, as well as a 9-month Diesel Engine Specialist Certificate of Completion. All four programs are Pell Grant eligible.