Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Diesel and Truck Service Management
Majors Overview December 4, 2013Students interested in diesel-fueled vehicles such as trucks, solving mechanical problems on these vehicles, should undergo diesel and truck service management degree programs. Considering that continued education isn’t always necessary for diesel and truck service management positions, aspiring mechanics may earn lots of work experience and training by finishing an associate’s degree program in this field.
A.A. Programs in Diesel and Truck Service Management
Students enrolled in Associate’s Degree Programs in Diesel and Truck Service Management are provided with the knowledge and skills they would need in repairing and replacing engine parts and gas tanks, conducting safety inspections, performing tune-ups and managing others in a team setting. While they learn about diesel parts and these parts work together, students also gain knowledge on adherence to safety standards in work settings. Technical schools and community colleges typically offer these two-year degree programs. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
Coursework is devised to augment classroom lectures with practical training with vehicles. Students can also gain additional knowledge through participation in an internship. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Service shop operations
•Preventative maintenance
•Diesel technology, tools and safety
•Auto paint lab
•Welding
•Automated and hybrid drive systems
•Truck and trailer refrigeration systems
•Engine performance
•Financial accounting
•Diagnostic procedures
Career Choices
Graduates of the program may choose from various entry-level careers in automotive leasing, manufacturing, construction, automotive repair and maintenance facilities and the truck transportation industry. They may choose from various career titles such as:
•Automotive service manager
•Bus/truck mechanic
•Diesel engine specialist
•Diesel service mechanic
•Diesel technician
Continuing Education Choices
Apart from knowledge gained in an associate’s degree program, graduates also benefit from practical training in work settings where they seek employment. Their advancement prospects work experience is boosted with sufficient work experience and additional training on certain components including electrical systems, brakes and transmissions. Advancements and promotions often come after employees have obtained work experience and training on particular components, such as transmissions, brakes and electrical systems. These professionals can aspire to be journey-level diesel technicians once they have had about two years of work experience in the field.
They are often sent by employers to manufacturer and vendor training classes to update their skills and knowledge relating to the latest technology. Training and experience augmented with professional certification can help technicians and mechanics to rise to supervisor or manager positions. Certifications in various aspects of truck and automotive service and repair are offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).