3 answers
jarred
Student
North Branch, Michigan
2
Questions
Asked
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How many years does a mechanic need for college?
(preferably diesel mechanic) #engineering #job #college #college-advice #student #university #college-selection
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3 answers
Sheila Jordan
Lead Network Proj/Prog Manager
712
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hello Jarred:
Thank you for your question. Although most diesel technicians learn on the job after a high school education, employers are increasingly preferring applicants who have completed post-secondary training programs in diesel engine repair. In addition, obtaining industry certification may be helpful because certification demonstrates a diesel technician’s competence and experience.
Education
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. High school or post-secondary courses in automotive repair, electronics, and mathematics provide a strong educational background for a career as a diesel technician.
Some employers prefer to hire workers with post-secondary education in diesel engine repair. Many community colleges and trade and vocational schools offer certificate or degree programs in diesel engine repair.
These degree programs mix classroom instruction with hands-on training and include learning the basics of diesel technology, repair techniques and equipment, and practical exercises. Students also learn how to interpret technical manuals and electronic diagnostic reports.
Training
Diesel technicians who begin working without any post-secondary education are trained extensively on the job. Trainees are assigned basic tasks, such as cleaning parts, checking fuel and oil levels, and driving vehicles in and out of the shop.
After they learn routine maintenance and repair tasks and demonstrate competence, trainees move on to more complicated subjects, such as vehicle diagnostics. This process can take from 3 to 4 years, at which point a trainee is usually considered a journey-level diesel technician.
Over the course of their careers, diesel technicians must learn to use new techniques and equipment. Employers often send experienced technicians to special training classes conducted by manufacturers and vendors to learn about the latest diesel technology.
I wish you much success in your endeavor. Best of luck to you!
~ Sheila
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics: - - -> https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/diesel-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm#tab-4
Thank you for your question. Although most diesel technicians learn on the job after a high school education, employers are increasingly preferring applicants who have completed post-secondary training programs in diesel engine repair. In addition, obtaining industry certification may be helpful because certification demonstrates a diesel technician’s competence and experience.
Education
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. High school or post-secondary courses in automotive repair, electronics, and mathematics provide a strong educational background for a career as a diesel technician.
Some employers prefer to hire workers with post-secondary education in diesel engine repair. Many community colleges and trade and vocational schools offer certificate or degree programs in diesel engine repair.
These degree programs mix classroom instruction with hands-on training and include learning the basics of diesel technology, repair techniques and equipment, and practical exercises. Students also learn how to interpret technical manuals and electronic diagnostic reports.
Training
Diesel technicians who begin working without any post-secondary education are trained extensively on the job. Trainees are assigned basic tasks, such as cleaning parts, checking fuel and oil levels, and driving vehicles in and out of the shop.
After they learn routine maintenance and repair tasks and demonstrate competence, trainees move on to more complicated subjects, such as vehicle diagnostics. This process can take from 3 to 4 years, at which point a trainee is usually considered a journey-level diesel technician.
Over the course of their careers, diesel technicians must learn to use new techniques and equipment. Employers often send experienced technicians to special training classes conducted by manufacturers and vendors to learn about the latest diesel technology.
I wish you much success in your endeavor. Best of luck to you!
~ Sheila
Sheila recommends the following next steps:
Linda Donart Young
Teacher - Advisor - Consultant
2
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Linda’s Answer
As a diesel mechanic you need to search for colleges or training schools which offer these type of courses. They should be hands on and training involved. There is a huge need for mechanics in our world and it is a wise choice for a career. Get your certifications (Community Colleges are the best place to begin), work hard for an individual or company, watch what the owner does, save money and eventually open your own diesel mechanic service. It will make you a lot of money!
Valerie Jackson, MSW, LMSW
Counseling Center Social Worker
2
Answers
Flint, Michigan
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
For a mechanic's degree maybe two years. Do you plan to be a special type of mechanic,,,like working on cars, larger trucks like 14, 16 wheelers, foreign cars?????