Online Diesel Technology Degrees and other Accredited Auto, Motorcycle, and Diesel Degrees

Online Degrees in Diesel Technology

Do you love to work on large trucks and other diesel vehicles? You should get your college training and become a diesel mechanic. Diesel mechanics are also sometimes called diesel service technicians, bus and truck mechanics, or diesel engine specialists. Diesel mechanics specialize in repairing and maintaining vehicles that use diesel fuel as their energy source. Diesel mechanics can maintain and repair a huge variety of motorized vehicles and also heavy equipment. For example, they can repair large trucks and buses, bulldozers, cranes, road graders, and even farm tractors. So, diesel mechanics do service normal automobiles light weight trucks, but they also service vehicles and equipment that are essential to many industries like farming and construction.

Diesel mechanics generally get their training through a college, trade school, or vocational training center. Most diesel repair programs take several months to two years to complete. Diesel mechanics can earn a national certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). They must be certified in specific areas of repair like drive trains, brakes, steering, electrical systems, and more. To become certified, a mechanic must pass an ASE administered exam in a specific area of diesel mechanics and present 2 years of relevant work experience.

diesel technology degrees

Career Outlook for Diesel Technology

The field of diesel technology is slated to have slow but steady job growth over the next several years. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, diesel technology is expected to see at least a six percent increase in job growth between now and 2018. This growth will be created by an increasing demand for smaller diesel fueled trucks in light weight hauling and shipping companies. Diesel fueled vehicles are known for their good mileage and durability, this will also create a need for more diesel mechanics as older vehicles age and need maintenance.

Wages Available in Diesel Technology

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, in 2008 bus and truck mechanics had average hourly wages of around $18.00 per hour. The middle 50 percent of diesel mechanics had wages from $15.00 to $23.00 per hour. About 23 percent of diesel mechanics are members of labor unions. The industries employing the most diesel mechanics were automotive equipment and rental companies, motor vehicles and vehicles part suppliers and wholesalers, and freight trucking companies.

Diesel Technology Programs Available Through Colleges

Colleges and trade schools are offering some excellent diesel technology programs right now. These programs include certification programs that takes anywhere from 6 months to longer to complete and an associate's degree (2 years of full-time study).