Vermont Technical College
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Diesel Power Technology
The Diesel Power Technology program at Vermont Technical College is designed to prepare students for a successful career as a diesel mechanic in the agricultural, heavy-duty truck, and earth-moving equipment service industries. The program covers all aspects of the repair industry, including parts, record keeping, customer relations, and preventive maintenance.
Through in-depth lectures, class discussions, and learning materials, students gain a broad understanding of diesel theory and the fundamentals of the diesel engine system, learning about the design, function, and operating principles of the diesel engine and its sub-systems. Each student will strengthen their comprehension in Math and English, while developing critical thinking, reasoning, and communication skills though written assignments.
In the laboratory, students observe live demonstrations and acquire hands-on training as they learn how to inspect, service, and repair diesel engines, diesel power systems, steering systems, suspension systems, alignment systems, diesel electrical and electronic systems, chassis electrical and electronic systems, heavy duty brake systems, fuel systems, hydraulics, and power transmissions. Students will also learn how to perform proper preventive maintenance and vehicle inspections.
By disassembling, inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and reassembling diesel engines and their integrated sub-systems, using sophisticated diagnostic equipment, service manuals, wiring diagrams, multi-meters, gauges, power tools, and hand tools, students gain valuable hands-on experience in diesel engine rebuilds and tune-ups.
Students will also be expected to utilize teamwork, shop safety, and effective time management, as they complete each task assigned to by their instructors with speed and proficiency, developing strong analytical and technical skills while strengthening their mechanical aptitude. Work ethics, professionalism, and maintaining a positive workplace attitude will also be stressed throughout the Diesel Power Technology program at Vermont Technical College.
Students are also given the opportunity to complete a 400-hour summer internship, working part-time with local job-related service providers, and gaining practical job experience and valuable industry contacts.
The Diesel Power Technology Curriculum
The Diesel Power Technology program is made up of the following career-relevant classes:
- Steering, Suspension Systems, & Alignment
- Preventive Maintenance
- Diesel Power Systems
- Basic Diesel Electrical/Electronics Systems
- Heavy Duty Braking Systems
- Summer Internship
- Fuel Systems
- Hydraulics
- Internship Review
- Chassis Electrical & Electronic Systems
- Power Transmission
- Fabrication
Students are also required to take English, Mathematics for Technology, Introduction to Spreadsheets & Database Management, General Physics, Small Business Management, Technical Communication, two AH/SS Electives, and one Program/Technical Elective in order to fulfill the 63 credit hour requirements of the Associate of Applied Science Degree program. Students are required to finish each course and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, the equivalent of a “C” grade, in order to graduate.
What to Expect After College
Students who successfully complete the Diesel Power Technology program at Vermont Technical College will be well-equipped to secure entry-level employment as general repair technicians, parts professionals, and service advisers. With more experience, graduates can advance to the position of lead technician, parts manager, or service manager.
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 Vermont was $43,820 yearly and $21.07 hourly, just 3% lower than the national average.
The Two-Year Associate of Applied Science Degree
Vermont Technical College offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science Degree in Diesel Power Technology. This program is Pell Grant eligible.