If the idea of working with heavy-duty trucks and keeping them moving safely on the road appeals to you, a career as a diesel mechanic could allow you to take on essential duties such as inspecting, maintaining, and repairing a wide range of diesel-powered vehicles — including buses, trucks, and more. Read on to explore the various degrees and certifications within this field.
Why a Career in Diesel Mechanics Is a Smart Choice
With a growing global reliance on diesel engines in transportation, construction, and agriculture, a variety of exciting career opportunities are available to professionals with the right education and training. Whether you’re interested in working as a general diesel technician, a fleet mechanic, or a diesel engine specialist, there are plenty of occupations and specializations to consider.
Additionally, diesel mechanics can explore careers across a vast range of industries. In agriculture, they help maintain and repair large equipment that keeps operations running smoothly. In construction and transportation, diesel professionals are responsible for maintaining trucks, buses, bulldozers, and other equipment. No matter where your specific interests may lie, there’s a solid chance you can pursue a suitable career with the necessary training and education.
Types of Diesel Mechanic Degrees Available
What education is required for diesel mechanics? This can vary greatly from one role or employer to the next. While there may not be a diesel mechanic degree required for some entry-level positions, moving up in this competitive field often requires some formal education.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Diesel Service Technology
For many looking to break into the field, an AAS in Diesel Service Technology or a related program is ideal. These programs typically take around two years to complete and are offered at institutions like Baker College’s hands-on Auto/Diesel Institute of Michigan.
In this type of program, you can expect to learn about core industry topics like:
- Engine systems
- Electrical systems
- Drivetrain systems
- Heavy Duty Brake Systems
- Heavy Duty Steering and Suspension
- Hydraulic Systems
- Heavy Duty Heating and Air Conditioning (Refrigerated Trucks)
Meanwhile, you’ll gain direct, practical experience that allows you to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios. After completing this type of degree program, you may be able to pursue entry-level diesel mechanic roles in transportation, agriculture, and beyond.
Diesel Mechanic Diploma or Certificate Programs
For those who aren’t ready to commit a couple of years to a formal degree program, a diploma or certificate program could be an option. These types of programs tend to be shorter (usually around six to 12 months) and focused on more practical skills and specific systems.
A diploma or certificate program can be a viable education option for individuals looking for quick entry into the workplace, particularly in entry-level roles.
Bachelor’s Degree in Diesel Technology
A bachelor’s degree in diesel technology is a more advanced credential that combines foundations of diesel mechanics with business and/or management skills. This type of program usually takes at least four years to complete, so it may be better suited for professionals looking to advance into leadership or supervisory roles within their industry.
In this type of degree program, students can expect to advance their technical knowledge while building upon leadership skills and exploring industry-specific management practices.
Diesel Mechanic Certifications: Enhancing Your Career
In addition to pursuing a formal diploma or degree in the field, earning a specific diesel mechanic certification to validate specialized skills sets you apart from other professionals.
Categories of Certifications for Diesel Mechanics
Though this is by no means a comprehensive list of every type of diesel mechanic certification available, it is a solid starting point for learning more about some of the most popular certifications in the field.
ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certifications
Considered to be the gold standard within the industry, ASE offers a range of certifications that appeal to different interests. Students at The Auto Diesel Institute of Michigan in the diesel service technology degree take the following tests to be recognized as ASE Certified Master Medium-Heavy Truck Technicians:
- T1 – Gasoline Engines
- T2 – Diesel Engines
- T3 – Drive Train
- T4 – Brakes
- T5 – Suspension & Steering
- T6 – Electrical/ Electronic Systems
- T7 – Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
- T8 – Preventive Maintenance Inspection
CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)
A common job requirement for diesel mechanics is to test drive vehicles, especially when they are in need of diagnosis/repair or have been recently repaired. In these cases, having a commercial driver’s license (CDL) can be highly valuable. By earning your CDL, you can expand your job roles and responsibilities to include test-driving vehicles — which can elevate your value as an employee.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Certifications
Getting certified to work with specific brands or parts manufacturers can also enhance your expertise with a certain brand while boosting your potential employability with dealerships and service centers. Brands such as Caterpillar, Cummins, and Detroit Diesel all offer their own certification programs — though the requirements vary for each.
EPA Section 609 Certification
In addition, many diesel mechanics will go on to pursue their EPA Section 609 certification, which is required in order to work on air conditioning systems in diesel trucks. Specifically, earning this certification demonstrates that you know how to follow the EPA’s requirements for handling refrigerants, crucial for diesel mechanics specializing in HVAC systems.
How Certifications Complement Degrees
In many ways, certifications can complement degrees by building upon the foundational skills and technical knowledge covered in a degree or diploma program. Certifications also give diesel mechanics an excellent opportunity to specialize their skills while building out their resumes, which could help them compete in the job market.
Career Opportunities with a Diesel Mechanic Degree and Certifications
So, what can you do with a degree or certification as a diesel mechanic? Ultimately, this will depend on the level of education you’ve achieved as well as your specific certification(s) and amount of relevant experience. However, plenty of entry-level, specialized, and advanced roles are available in this growing field.
Entry-Level Positions
For recent graduates who may be just breaking into the field, entry-level roles can be a good place to start. Some examples of entry-level diesel mechanic positions include:
- Diesel technician
- Fleet maintenance mechanic
- Heavy equipment mechanic
Specialized Roles
As you gain more experience or pursue additional certifications, you may be able to qualify for more specialized roles in the field, such as:
- Mobile service technician
- Diagnostic specialist
- OEM-certified technician
Advanced Careers
With more experience, education, and training under your belt, you could explore advanced roles in leadership and management positions. Examples of these types of job titles include:
- Shop foreman
- Service manager
- Diesel technology instructor
How to Choose the Right Diesel Mechanic School or Program
If you’re leaning toward enrolling in a diesel mechanic degree or diploma program, a quick online search will yield an overwhelming number of results. How can you narrow down your options and determine which program is right for you?
There are a few key factors to account for when choosing a diesel mechanic program. First, make sure that the program and/or school itself is accredited by a reputable entity. The Auto Diesel Institute of Michigan’s diesel technology program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.
Accreditation ensures that the program curriculum meets or exceeds certain quality standards. You’ll also want to review the specific programs offered to make sure they align with your long-term career goals and aspirations.
When assessing a diesel mechanic program, it’s also important to consider the amount of practical training you’ll have access to. Preferably, the school you select has its own facility for hands-on training with modern tools and equipment that today’s professionals actually use on the job. Be sure to inquire as to how much time will be spent in the classroom versus working directly with real tools and equipment.
Consider, too, classroom sizes and who will be teaching the classes you attend. The smaller the classes, the more one-on-one instruction you can expect to receive. Likewise, you’ll want to find a program where your instructors have had plenty of experience working directly in the field (not just teaching in a classroom). Ideally, your instructors will be ASE-certified professionals themselves.
Baker College’s Diesel Technology Degree
A career as a diesel mechanic can be an excellent fit for those who enjoy working with their hands, solving complex problems, and staying on top of the latest industry innovations. And while a degree or certification alone won’t guarantee a job in the field, the reality is that completing a quality diesel mechanic training and education program can be a great way to build the foundational skills needed to thrive in this line of work.Baker College’s Auto/Diesel Institute of Michigan is proud to offer an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Service Technology program that prepares students to take seven different Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams while training in a state-of-the-art, 43,000-square-foot facility. Learn more about this 60-credit degree program by getting in touch today, or get started with your application.