Trucking supplies across the nation is a vital component to keeping the economy functioning properly, especially when it comes providing the necessities that Americans need to live normal lives.
Because diesel-powered vehicles are the main form of transportation of goods in America, individuals who earn a certificate or degree in diesel technology have numerous job opportunities in this stable career.
Diesel mechanics ensure diesel-powered vehicles are running at optimal performance levels, requiring them to have a core understanding of mechanical repair and diagnostic techniques for diesel-powered vehicles.
Those who wish to get hired on at a mechanic company in Utah need to complete the required diesel mechanic courses through an accredited college or program.
Educational Prerequisites
Accredited vocational, technical, and community colleges in Utah require students to first complete the required prerequisites in order to be enrolled in the diesel technology program.
Potential students need to earn their high school diploma or GED before applying to any college, and some colleges even require students to have already completed four years of English as well as two years of math and science in order to be considered eligible.
Educational Requirements
Once students have met the educational prerequisites needed to enroll in a diesel technology program, they can choose between a variety of degree options to become a successful diesel mechanic in Utah.
Before enrolling in any program, individuals need to make sure the college is accredited through a national organization, such as the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), which will prepare them for further certification in this industry. Degree and graduation requirements include a:
- Certificate in Diesel Mechanic Technology – 31 credits
- Associate of Science in Diesel Technology – 64 credits
- Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology Management – 124 credits
Many corporations in the mechanic industry offer diesel technology training programs to teach new hires the techniques needed to successfully repair and maintain diesel-powered vehicles.
Aspiring diesel mechanics who wish to obtain a professional status through hands-on experience need to complete three years of on-the-job training.
Those who wish to start off with a higher salary or ascertain a higher position in a company should pursue a degree in diesel technology.
Associate of Science in Diesel Technology
Individuals who wish to start off their career with a higher paying position in Utah’s mechanic industry need to earn an Associate of Science in Diesel Technology, which requires two years of educational training and hands-on experience.
Certified instructors train students in diesel technology repair and diagnostic procedures, teaching them how to properly maintain and repair diesel-powered vehicles.
Even though most training is completed in a garage environment, students need to complete the required classroom instruction as well, which will cover subjects in:
- Heavy duty brakes
- Fuel systems
- Hydraulics
- Power transmissions
- Electrical systems
- Diesel engine technology
- AC systems
Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology Management
Diesel mechanics who wish to further their career by entering into a managerial role at a mechanic company in Utah should earn a Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology Management, which will take approximately four years to complete.
Earning a bachelor’s degree requires students to prove they have a core understanding of the diagnostic repair and maintenance of diesel-powered engines as well as the management of diesel mechanic teams.
In order to complete a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited college in Utah, students need to learn about the fundamentals behind the methodologies and repair techniques, requiring them to complete the following coursework:
- Diesel garage management
- Heavy duty automatics
- Diesel electrical systems
- AC systems
- Heating systems
- Diesel fuel systems
- Pneumatics and hydraulics
- Diesel engine labs
- Welding theory
Certification in Utah
Individuals who have earned a degree in diesel technology do not have to worry about getting specially certificated to work legally in Utah; however, more and more employers only hire those who have earned their certification in this field.
Certification proves that the diesel mechanics have a thorough knowledge of diesel technology procedures and methodologies.
Diesel mechanics can complete their certification testing through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). From preventative maintenance to electrical and steering systems, certification opens up several more opportunities in the mechanic industry for those who wish to specialize in a specific sector of diesel technology.
Career Outlook
Providing diesel mechanics with a stable work environment, earning a degree in diesel technology opens many new career opportunities in Utah. A 2012 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that Utah currently has 3,230 diesel mechanics employed in the state, and statistics report that employment opportunities in this industry are expected to increase by 15 percent between 2010 and 2020, which is around the national employment average.
With work conditions varying greatly in this industry, diesel mechanics need to be prepared to work in a variety of work environments, including:
- Local garages
- Railways
- Commercial fleets
- On-site mechanic companies
Whether individuals are just starting out as diesel mechanics or wish to increase their standing at a mechanic company, furthering one’s education and obtaining proper certification is key to ascertaining a higher paid position in a specialized sector of this field.
With an additional 35,200 diesel mechanic jobs opening up by 2020 and an ever-increasing need for diesel-powered vehicles to transport supplies to retailers and manufacturers across the nation, those who live in Utah can find new career opportunities and work stability as diesel mechanics.