Course Description
Diesel Technology is a two-year, highly technical program designed to prepare students to use critical thinking skills to explore basic diesel technology. Students will apply these skills in the service and maintenance of medium- and heavy-duty trucks and other diesel-powered equipment including farm and construction equipment. Students will learn how to operate various equipment including electronic diagnostic analyzers, precision measuring devices, hydraulic presses and cranes.

Personal Skills
Personal skills include making judgments and decisions as well as meeting strict standards, verbal and written communication skills, mechanical aptitude.

Physical Skills
Physical skills include lifting, carrying, reaching, using hands and fingers, seeing clearly up close, and judging depth and distance.

Suggested Related H.S. Coursework and Activities
Computer Applications, Keyboarding, Algebra, Language Arts, Speech, Psychology, Biology, Chemistry, Principles of Technology, Applied Physics, Electronics, Welding, SkillsUSA

Salary Range
The average salary for entry-level diesel engine specialists in Missouri is $25,790 ($12.40/hr.) while experienced workers average $43,210 ($20.78/hr.). The overall average salary for diesel technicians in Missouri is $37,410 ($17.98/hr.).

Related Post-Secondary Programs
Heavy Equipment Technology, Heavy Equipment Operations, Power Sports Technology, Medium-Heavy Truck Technology, Aviation Maintenance, Automotive Maintenance Technology.

Curriculum
Orientation and Safety, Engine Repair, Engine Tune-Up, Preventative Maintenance Inspections, Vehicle Electrical Systems, Fuel System, Computer Controls, Transmissions, Brakes, Air Conditioning Systems, Diesel Electrical Systems, Human Relations, Careers and Personal Development.
    
Related Occupations
Accessory Installer, Aircraft Service Tech, Auto Service Tech, Auto Parts Retailer, Boat Engine Service Tech, Brake Technician, Farm Equipment Service Tech, Heavy-Duty Diesel Service Tech, Fleet Manager, Motorcycle Service Tech, Small-Engine Specialist, Tune-Up Tech.

Missouri Job Outlook
Employment is projected to change from 5,940 in 2006 to 6,320 in 2016 for a 6% increase. It is estimated that 166 average annual job openings will be created by growth and persons leaving the labor force. Area employers indicate a shortage of trained diesel technicians.

Continuing Education
1-2 years college or trade/technical school. Most employers prefer to hire persons who have completed formal training programs on diesel-powered equipment. Generally, skills in all aspects of diesel technology requires 3-4 years of on-the-job training. Articulation with Linn State Technical College is planned. This will allow students the opportunity to earn up to 15 free credit hours toward an associates degree at Linn State for skills acquired at Pike-Lincoln Tech Center.