Top Schools with Diesel Mechanic Programs
Higher Education Articles June 20, 2013Students enrolled in the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) and diesel technology certificate programs offered at various schools (as discussed below) can become diesel mechanics. In these programs, students are taught about repairing and maintaining diesel engines and components found in light trucks, boats, automobiles, farm and construction equipment, buses and semi-trucks.
Leading Diesel Mechanic Schools
Tidewater Community College – Norfolk, Virginia
Among the largest two-year institutions in the United States, Tidewater Community College (TCC) enrolls about 46,000 students annually. Programs in areas such as computer-aided design, electromechanical controls technology, electronics technology and automotive technology are offered through the school’s Engineering and Industrial Technology division. Students can avail training in the maintenance of trucks and heavy equipment by enrolling in TCC’s career studies certificate program in industrial and diesel machine repair. Enrollment in a marine diesel technician program is suitable for individuals who want to work with boats.
San Jacinto College – Pasadena, Texas
This two-year public school enrolls more than 29,000 students every year. The school comprised of seven extension centers and three campuses in the Pasadena area that are used for personal enrichment programs, technical training, and workforce training. In 2011, San Jacinto College – Pasadena, Texas was rated 4th on the list of the best 50 associate degree programs in science technologies, as composed by Community College Week. Students in the diesel technology Associate of Applied Science program take courses in shop safety, electrical systems, rake systems, and diesel engine testing and repair. A 3-term Diesel Technology Certificate is also offered at the school.
Pennsylvania College of Technology – Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Applied technology certificate and degree programs are offered to over 6,400 students annually at Pennsylvania College of Technology, affiliated with Pennsylvania State University. In 2012, the college was ranked 36th on the list of best Northern regional colleges, by the U.S. News & World Report. Graduates from its A.A.S. in Diesel Technology program can pursue EPA technician certifications in motor vehicle air-conditioning and stationary refrigeration along with optional manufacturer certifications. Students can also seek a diesel technician certification and complete courses including topics such as engine overhaul, brake service, tune-ups and vehicle inspection.
Ten Leading Schools with Diesel Mechanic Programs
| School Names | Distinction | Location |
| American River College | Offers a certificate program in clean diesel technology concentrating on biodiesel fuel systems | Sacramento, California |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | This college offers the largest workforce development program in Florida | Jacksonville, Florida |
| Houston Community College | Community College Week ranked this school in the top 50 for their associate degree program in science technologies | Houston, Texas |
| Indian Hills Community College | This community college promise employers that graduates from their school will successfully perform the entry-level work in which they are hired | Ottumwa, Iowa |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Allow students to earn credits for work performed on the job | Milwaukee, Wisconsin |
| Pennsylvania College of Technology | The Associate of Applied Science program in diesel technology will prepare students for work in the natural gas industry | Williamsport, Pennsylvania |
| San Jacinto College | There is a 100% job placement rate for diesel technology program graduates | Pasadena, Texas |
| San Joaquin Delta College | There will be extra courses in auto mechanics in the diesel automotive equipment technician program | Stockton, California |
| SUNY College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill | Program in diesel technology offers a specialization in forestry equipment and John Deere construction | Cobleskill, New York |
| Tidewater Community College | Recognized by the American Council on Education for its efforts to make study abroad opportunities available to students enrolled in an undergraduate program | Norfolk, Virginia |
