With commerce in the United States reliant on the trucking industry, diesel mechanics are essential to keeping diesel-powered trucks functioning at optimal performance levels.
The trucking industry works with companies across the country, delivering supplies and raw materials where needed. Choosing a career in diesel technology can be a rewarding job opportunity, especially for those who enjoy working with their hands.
Diesel mechanics repair, rebuild, and maintain diesel-powered engines on buses, trains, ships, trucks, and other vehicles, ensuring the vehicles can be driven millions of miles every year. To properly repair an engine, diesel mechanics need to utilize diagnostic tests to troubleshoot problems and sources as well as replace any malfunctioning parts.
Mechanics need to be able to not only check the water-cooling systems but also clean the air and oil filters in order to prevent engine break downs. Regular engine rebuilds after 100,000 miles is required to make sure the truck is in maximum working condition, which entails the proper knowledge and skills.
Earning a degree in diesel technology at an accredited school is vital to finding a diesel mechanic position in Nevada.
Educational Prerequisites
Individuals who wish to major in diesel technology need to first obtain the required prerequisites. Accredited colleges and universities require potential students to have a high school diploma or GED, and some schools prefer students to have prior coursework before enrollment, including four years of English as well as two years of high school math and science.
Educational Requirements
Most employers prefer individuals who have earned their high school diplomas and have gained previous mechanical training. Diesel technology schools in Nevada offer an Associate of Science in Diesel Technology and Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology.
Whether students attend school at a technical, community, or vocational college, they should prepare to spend a minimum of two years in school for an associate’s degree and four years in school for a bachelor’s degree.
Associate degree programs in Nevada offer both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in a lab or garage. Diesel technology programs teach students the necessary mechanical technology techniques for developing their practical skills in auto machinery, helping them to successfully diagnose and repair vehicles with diesel engines.
Aspiring diesel mechanics will learn how to troubleshoot mechanical issues, implementing plans for diesel engine repair, and controlling engine services. Students will need to pass various courses in diesel technology, including subjects on:
- Electrical Systems
- Diesel Engine Systems
- Preventative Maintenance
- Braking Systems
- Hydraulics
- Power transmissions
- Air conditioning systems
Diesel mechanics who wish to further their career and enter into a management position can earn a Bachelors of Science in Diesel Technology. Bachelor degree programs teach students a core understanding in diesel technology techniques and methodologies, training them in mathematics, humanities, and natural sciences. Many courses are oriented towards management training, and coursework can include:
- Welding theory and lab
- Diesel electrical systems
- Heavy duty automatics
- Air conditioning and heating systems
- Diesel engines lab
- Diesel shop management
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
- Diesel fuel systems
Diesel Mechanic Certification
Nevada does not require diesel technicians to earn special certification in order to practice legally in the state; however, most employers prefer employees who have obtained national certification to show the mechanics have successfully met the diesel technology industry’s standards.
Graduates of a diesel technology program will need to pass an examination through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) to gain national certification, which may cover topics like the preventative maintenance, braking systems, and electrical systems of diesel-powered vehicles.
Earning national certification in this industry will increase one’s chance of landing a job at an upstanding mechanic or manufacturing company.
Career Opportunities
From depot services or local garages to marine vessels or fixed diesel vehicles, individuals have many employment opportunities in Nevada’s mechanical industry, especially in large cities like Reno or Las Vegas, after they have graduated from an accredited college.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a 2010 report showed that approximately 242,200 diesel mechanics were employed in the United States.
Employment is predicted to increase by 15 percent between 2010 and 2020, which is an estimated 35,200 more jobs. The BLS reports that diesel mechanics can earn a median annual salary of $40,850, which is approximately $19.64 per hour.
Career options for diesel mechanics vary greatly, according to the mechanic’s educational training, company location, and previous work experience. Most diesel mechanics who have earned a degree in diesel technology have potential employment opportunities as a:
- Diesel engine mechanic
- Heavy duty technician
- Manufacturer technician
- Diesel parts and service manager
- Fuel system specialist
Whether you are choosing a new career path or wish to further your career as a diesel mechanic manager, attending an accredited diesel technology school in Nevada provide the necessary training and hands-on experience you need to succeed in the mechanic industry.
If you are searching for a highly accredited diesel technology program, take a few minutes and review potential diesel technology schools near your home.