Diesel Technology

CURRICULUM  APPLY  Faculty  Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid 

Our Diesel Technology Program is designed to prepare students to enter the diesel mechanic career field. This instruction gives an understanding of diesel equipment construction, theory of operation, and standard industry service, and repair procedures. This instruction not only provides knowledge to perform equipment repair and service but also develops skills necessary to diagnose malfunctions. Two of the most important skills that will be developed are problem solving and critical thinking.

A graduate of this program will be able to:

  • Diagnose and repair common malfunctions of the following systems:
    • Diesel engine principles and operation, shop operation and tool/equipment usage
    • Diesel engine – lubrication, cooling, fuel injection  systems, mechanical systems, intake, and exhaust including turbo chargers
    • Diesel engine troubleshooting, testing, repair, and rebuild
    • Medium and heavy-duty truck and equipment; electrical/electronic systems
    • Medium and heavy-duty vehicle braking systems, hydraulic and air brake systems
    • Steering and suspension systems
    • Drive train systems – including automatic, auto-shift, and manual transmissions; driveline and differentials
    • Preventive maintenance inspections
    • Basic hydraulics and hydraulic systems
    • Heavy-duty HVAC systems
    • Basic welding, oxy-acetylene, plasma, and metal fabrication
    • PA State Cat 3 Inspection and Federal DOT Safety Inspection procedures
  • Develop sound and safe diesel shop practice skills, including environmental protection.
  • Develop good shop habits, including demonstrating a good attendance record, punctuality, a willingness to
    work as a team, and a positive attitude toward lifelong learning.
  • Apply laws of physics/scientific principles to diesel equipment systems and components when performing in-shop testing exercises and diagnostic procedures.
  • Record diagnostic testing data and reports using necessary mathematics; solve basic problems using algebra.
  • Locate and interpret technical data represented in shop manuals, diagnostic charts, and wiring diagrams. This could be hard copy or electronically driven.
  • Demonstrate appropriate diesel shop management practices, including student management, customer relations, shop procedures, and writing repair orders.
  • Prepare to take and pass the ASE Medium and Heavy-Duty Truck test series after successful completion of this
    program and one year of on-the-job experience.
  • Prepare to become a lifelong learner. The diesel equipment industry is very fast paced with technology changing daily. Technicians will be constantly upgrading their knowledge and skills. A solid fundamental base is crucial for building these skills.
Job & Salary Outlook Essential Skills