Diesel Technology

What is Diesel Technology?

The Diesel Technology program is a sequence of courses designed to prepare students for careers in medium/heavy truck, farm equipment service, or construction equipment repair. Instruction, delivered by lecture and hands-on training, is provided by a National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) Master Certified Truck Technician. The program is NATEF certified as a division of the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) national institution for certifying medium/heavy duty truck technicians.

A basic mechanical ability, as well as previous mechanical experience, is helpful in the diesel mechanics study, but is not required. Students will be trained in a modern, clean training facility with an emphasis on quality of work as well as good work ethics. Graduates of the program can find work in new truck, farm and construction equipment dealerships, independent repair shops, specialty shops, fleet repair facilities, and a number of other diesel related facilities.

Program Standing: A student must receive a grade of C or better to receive credit for successful completion of courses in the diesel technology curriculum. 

What are my career choices?

Diesel service technicians and mechanics are employed in almost every industry, particularly those that use trucks, buses, and equipment to haul, deliver, and transport materials, goods, and people. The largest employer is the truck transportation industry. Nearly every area of the country employs diesel service technicians and mechanics, although most work is found in towns and cities where trucking companies, bus lines, and other fleet owners have large operations.

What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?

Students can earn the Associate in Applied Science in General Occupational/Technical Studies. This degree provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. Credit earned through certificate and diploma program completion is applicable toward the Associate in Applied Science in General Occupational/Technical Studies degree when consistent with the objectives of the students individual plan of study.

Diplomas

Diploma in Diesel Technology with the following options:

• Agricultural Equipment Technician
• Construction Equipment Technician
• Medium and Heavy Truck Technician

Certificates - Diesel Technology

• Agricultural Equipment Mechanic Helper
• Construction Equipment Mechanic Helper
• Diesel Engine Mechanic
• Diesel Mechanics Assistant
• Diesel Steering and Suspension Mechanic
• Electrical / Electronic Systems Mechanic
• Fluid Power Mechanic
• Heavy Duty Brake Mechanic
• Heavy Duty Drive Train Mechanic
• Medium and Heavy Truck Mechanic Helper
• Mobile Air Conditioning Mechanic
• Preventive Maintenance Mechanic
• Undercarriage Mechanic

Certificates - Heavy Equipment Operation

• Backhoe Operator
• Bulldozer Operator
• Front-End Loader Operator
• Hydraulic Excavator Operator
• Motor-Grader Operator

Length of Program

Students seeking a diploma can complete their plan of study in four semesters by completing a total of 55-68 credit hours of technical and general education courses. Certificates embedded within the diploma may be awarded as credential requirements are met. An Associate in Applied Science in General Occupational/Technical Studies (AAS-GOTS) degree can be completed by meeting the diploma requirements and completing additional general education requirements for a total of 60-76 credit hours. Day classes are offered during two 16week semesters (August-December and January- May) each academic year at the Purchase Training Center, located at 234 Pioneer Industrial Drive, Mayfield, KY 42066. Dual credit courses are accepted from local high school districts and allow the student to enter in their second semester of the program.

Admission Requirements

There are no special admission requirements for this program. Please consult WKCTC's general admission requirements.

More Information

• The WHAYNETECH Scholarship is available to high school seniors enrolling in the program.

• Industry related associations:
  National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
  National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)

Field Licensure Requirements

Some employers in the industry require ASE certification. ASE certification is not required to complete the program at the college, but students are encouraged to become ASE certified to improve their job prospects.

This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.

Financial Resources

How to Apply for Scholarships

How to Pay for College