Diesel Technology

Program available at/via: [Walla Walla] [Corrections Education - WSP]

Department Overview: Diesel Technology provides a hands-on, work-based training experience and the classroom curriculum required for careers in diagnosing and repairing heavy-duty trucks, heavy equipment, medium-duty vehicles, agricultural equipment, logging equipment, forklifts, and mining equipment. Diesel Technology integrates the many components necessary to prepare students with the technical knowledge and mechanical skills required to service, repair, and test various types of machinery. An extensive curriculum prepares students to apply knowledge and skills to a wide range of diesel powered equipment applications. Diesel Technology curriculum is reviewed by an advisory board composed of local and regional industry members.

Program Level Outcomes:

Understand the construction, function, and general service of all major equipment components.
Diagnose mechanical malfunctions and performance problems.
Make decisions as to disposition of worn parts (i.e. usable as is; should be reconditioned or replaced).
Operate precision diagnostic and repair equipment.
Read and interpret repair manuals.
Understand the importance of good public relations with customers, employer, and fellow employees.
Understand basic shop operation.
Be cognizant of overhead and labor cost in relationship to profit.
Understand apprenticeship and how it functions.
Be informed on methods of seeking employment.

Degrees:

Students may earn an Associate in Applied Sciences Degree in Diesel Technology upon completion of a two-year program of study. A Diesel Technology Certificate is available upon completion of the first year of study in the program.

Students who earn their AAS in Diesel Technology may also earn a dual degree in Automotive Repair Technology. Please speak with your instructor about the required and specific classes needed.

Industry Description: Diesel service technicians and mechanics, also known as bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, repair and maintain the diesel engines that power transportation equipment such as heavy trucks, buses, bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors, and combines. Diesel maintenance is becoming increasingly complex, as more electronic components are used to control the operation of an engine. Technicians who work for organizations that maintain their own vehicles spend most of their time doing preventive maintenance to ensure that equipment will operate safely.

Entrance Requirements: It is recommended that the student contact the lead instructor regarding appropriate program placement. Students may enter the program in fall quarter. In order to start this program, the placement process, including a mechanical reasoning test, must be completed through the Testing Center. Visit wwcc.edu/placement for more information.

Other Information: Students under the age of 18 and/or without a high school diploma or GED® require instructor permission to enroll in Diesel Technology courses. A high school diploma or GED® is required to receive a degree in Diesel Technology.

For additional information including regional employment data, completion rates, student characteristics, and employment see http://www.careerbridge.wa.gov.

Courses

Diesel Technology