Automotive Technology Certificate: Diesel and Industrial Technician Program Overview

Students interested in studying automotive technology with a focus in diesel and industrial technology may consider completing a certificate program in diesel technology. This type of program focuses on the concepts and ideas that prepare students for work on heavy vehicles with diesel engines and other diesel vehicles used in industrial settings.

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Diesel Technology Certificate

A diesel technology certificate program takes 1-2 years to complete. Programs offer students theoretical knowledge of diesel engines and hands-on experience using computerized tools to keep large vehicles and industrial equipment running properly. It is common for programs to follow guidelines from - or to be certified by - a nationally recognized professional organization, such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Programs usually have no education prerequisites, except requiring students to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Course Topics

The goal of most diesel technology programs is to prepare students for entry-level positions as mechanics upon graduation. With this in mind, curriculum is focused on teaching students the skills needed to operate automotive repair equipment and tools in addition to providing them with the knowledge to identify vehicle parts, troubleshoot problems and perform corrective or preventative actions. Some topics covered in a program may include:

  • Preventative maintenance for diesel engines
  • Vehicle electrical systems
  • Diesel brake systems
  • Suspension and steering systems
  • Vehicle troubleshooting methods

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), about 222,940 jobs were held by diesel service technicians and mechanics in 2011, with a projected job growth for the period of 2008-2018 of six percent (www.bls.gov). This slow job growth was expected to be due to the increased durability and reliability of new diesel vehicles. In May 2011, the BLS reported a mean annual wage for the category including diesel engine specialists as $41,640.

Continuing Education and Certification Info

According to the BLS, experience is valued more than advanced education for diesel technicians. With experience, technicians may advance their careers and qualify for voluntary certification from an organization, such as the ASE. The ASE offers the option of master technician certification and a master medium-heavy technician certification, among other specialized certifications (www.ase.com). Both master certification options require work experience and passing multiple tests. Recertification takes place every five years.

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Career Information for a Degree in Industrial Technology

3 Popular Schools

Other Schools:

  • New England Institute of Technology

    School locations:
    • Rhode Island (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at New England Institute of Technology include:
      • Non-Degree: Coursework
      • Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Construction Management and Trades
      • Electrical Repair and Maintenance
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Autobody Repair
        • Automotive Mechanics
        • Marine Watercraft Repair and Maintenance
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  • University of Cincinnati

    School locations:
    • Ohio (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at University of Cincinnati include:
      • Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
      • Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
      • Undergraduate: Associate
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Automotive Mechanics
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  • Ferris State University

    School locations:
    • Michigan (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at Ferris State University include:
      • Graduate: First Professional Degree, Master
      • Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
      • Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
      • Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Construction Management and Trades
      • Electrical Repair and Maintenance
      • Heavy Equipment Maintenance
      • Precision Metal Working
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Autobody Repair
        • Automotive Mechanics
    » Research Ferris State University's Programs

  • Southern Illinois University

    School locations:
    • Illinois (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at Southern Illinois University include:
      • Graduate: Doctorate, First Professional Degree, Master
      • Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
      • Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
        • Automotive Mechanics
        • Avionics Repair and Maintenance
    » Research Southern Illinois University's Programs

  • Pearl River Community College

    School locations:
    • Mississippi (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at Pearl River Community College include:
      • Non-Degree: Coursework, Diploma
      • Undergraduate: Associate
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Construction Management and Trades
      • Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation, and Refrigeration Maintenance
      • Precision Metal Working
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Automotive Mechanics
        • Diesel Mechanics
    » Research Pearl River Community College's Programs

  • Valdosta State University

    School locations:
    • Georgia (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at Valdosta State University include:
      • Graduate: Doctorate, Master
      • Post Degree Certificate: Post Master's Certificate
      • Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Automotive Mechanics
    » Research Valdosta State University's Programs

  • Nashville State Technical Community College

    School locations:
    • Tennessee (1 campus)
    Areas of study you may find at Nashville State Technical Community College include:
      • Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
      • Undergraduate: Associate
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies
      • Construction Management and Trades
      • Precision Metal Working
      • Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
        • Automotive Mechanics
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Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics