In today’s commerce and services industries, diesel mechanics and repair technicians play a crucial role in maintaining America’s energy and transportation infrastructure.
Without diesel-powered vehicles, the economy would quickly crumble due to an inability to supply stores with the necessary raw materials and merchandise to keep commerce functioning.
Because of the growing desire for diesel mechanics across the nation, earning a degree in diesel technology can be a rewarding career move, opening many doors in the mechanic industry.
Diesel mechanics are vital to commerce-driven corporations, especially when it comes to the repair and maintenance of diesel-powered trucks that drive thousands of miles per year. Mechanics focus on the repair of truck engine parts and vital systems, such as the brakes, suspension, and electrical components.
Communication is key to this industry, requiring diesel mechanic to speak with drivers about potential break downs.
For those who wish to find a position as a diesel mechanic in Indiana, earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in diesel technology is essential to getting hired in this industry.
DM Educational Prerequisites
Aspiring diesel technicians who wish to attend a diesel mechanic school in Indiana need to meet the college’s educational prerequisites before enrollment is approved.
Educational prerequisites include a high school diploma or similar certification, such as a GED. Certain accredited programs require students to meet certain coursework prerequisites, including four years of English as well as two years of high school math and science.
Educational Requirements
To give yourself a more competitive edge as a diesel mechanic, you should earn an associate or bachelor’s degree at an accredited school in Indiana.
Accredited colleges and universities will ensure aspiring diesel mechanics and technicians are properly prepared to work in this field, taking a minimum of two years to complete at a technical, vocational, or community college.
An Associate of Science in Diesel Technology focuses on teaching students the proper techniques of diesel technology, helping them develop the practical skills needed to troubleshoot and fix mechanical issues on diesel-powered vehicles.
Educational training takes place in a garage or lab, and subjects can cover:
- Power transmissions
- Commercial truck power train
- Electrical systems
- Fuel systems
- Diesel air conditioning systems
- Heavy duty brakes
- Hydraulics
- Diesel engine technology
Diesel mechanics who wish to further their career opportunities in the mechanical industry can earn a Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology at an accredited school in Indiana, requiring four years of training.
Accredited colleges teach students the necessary methodologies and repair techniques in diesel technology, providing them with knowledge in natural sciences, mathematics, and humanities. Diesel mechanics who wish to find a position as a manager need to first earn a bachelor’s degree in this field.
Courses can cover topics like:
- Welding theory and lab
- Diesel electrical systems
- Heavy duty automatics
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
- Diesel shop management
- Diesel fuel systems
- Air conditioning and heating systems
Diesel Mechanic Certification
Although the law does not require diesel mechanics to get a license to practice in Indiana, most employers prefer mechanics who have earned their national certification, which shows the diesel mechanic successfully met the national standards in diesel technology.
Diesel mechanics need to pass an examination through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), which can cover topics like:
- Preventative maintenance
- Diesel-powered systems
- Brakes
- Electrical systems
Career Opportunities
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a 2010 report showed that approximately 242,200 diesel mechanics worked in the United States, and employment opportunities in this industry are predicted to grow by 15 percent between 2010 and 2020, which provides an estimated 35,200 more jobs to potential candidates.
The BLS explains that newly graduated diesel mechanics can earn a median annual wage of $40,850, which is approximately $19.64 per hour.
From local garages and shipping yards to diesel manufacturers and fixed diesel organizations, diesel mechanics have several career opportunities they can choose from once they have graduated from an accredited college and have earned their certification.
Depending on their educational training, company location, and previous experience, individuals who have a degree in diesel technology can seek employment as a:
- Manufacturer technician
- Heavy truck technician
- Diesel mechanic
- Fuel system specialist
- Diesel service and parts manager
Earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in diesel technology can go a long way in preparing aspiring diesel technicians with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field.
Opening new opportunities in the commerce and services industries, diesel mechanic training is a requirement if one wants to obtain a high-paying position at an upstanding mechanic company.
If your desire is to enroll in an accredited college or university in Indiana, take a few minutes to research potential diesel mechanic programs near your home.