Because diesel engines offer increased durability and fuel economy when compared to gasoline-powered engines, companies are turning to diesel-powered vehicles to run their operations.
With the ever-growing need for diesel vehicles to transport goods across the nation and supplies over water, more and more companies are looking to hire certified diesel mechanics to keep their fleets running at optimal performance levels.
For those who are contemplating a new career path as a diesel mechanic in New Mexico, earning a degree or certificate in diesel technology not only opens many job opportunities in this industry but also increases job stability in today’s recovering economy.
Educational Prerequisites
Like most colleges across America, diesel mechanic schools in New Mexico require certain educational prerequisites to be fulfilled before students can enroll in the diesel technology program.
Most colleges in New Mexico require students to have at least a high school diploma or GED before they are considered eligible for enrollment, and the more stringent programs demand potential students to have a minimum of four years of English as well as two years of high school math and science.
Educational Requirements
Even though some companies offer special training courses for individuals who have no educational experience in diesel technology, the continuing technological advancements of this industry are making this path more difficult to follow nowadays.
Aspiring diesel mechanics who obtain a position through on-the-job training tend to start out with a lower salary and spend a minimum of three years working their way up to professional status.
For those who wish to increase their chances of ascertaining a higher paid position at a diesel corporation, earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in diesel technology offers the necessary tools and hands-on experience students need to succeed in the diesel mechanic industry.
Before enrolling into a diesel mechanic program in New Mexico, potential students should make sure the community, vocational, or technical school is accredited through a governing organization, such as the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).
Accredited diesel mechanic programs prepare students for earning their certification in a certain sector of the industry after they have graduated.
Associate of Science in Diesel Technology
For those who wish to increase their chances of getting hired on by a diesel corporation, earning an Associate of Science in Diesel Technology is the first step to take when it comes to educational training.
Taking between two and three years to complete, an associate’s degree teaches students a core understanding of diesel diagnosis and repair methods. Certified instructors train students in a garage or lab setting, helping the students identify parts, tools, and functions of diesel-powered engines.
Depending on the diesel mechanic program, coursework may cover:
- Fuel systems
- Power transmissions
- Diesel engine technology
- Hydraulics
Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology
For those who wish to further their career stance and become managers at a diesel corporation, earning a Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology will open many job opportunities in New Mexico.
A bachelor’s degree generally takes between four and five years to complete, depending on the number of courses taken each semester.
Students will engage in classroom instruction and lab work, learning the fundamentals of diesel technology methodologies and techniques. Classroom instruction covers more generalized subjects, such as natural sciences, mathematics, and humanities, to train students for management positions.
Other coursework may include:
- Heavy duty automatics
- Diesel electrical systems
- Diesel engine labs
- Diesel shop management
- Diesel fuel systems
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
Certification in New Mexico
Even though certification is not required to work legally in New Mexico, most employers hire those who have earned their certification in a specific sector of diesel technology.
Not only does certification prove the mechanics meet the national standards of diesel technology, but it also shows employers the mechanics have taken the extra initiative to increase their marketability. Diesel mechanics can take the diesel technology certificate exam through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), which covers subjects like:
- Steering systems
- Preventative maintenance
- Electrical systems
- Brake systems
Career Outlook
By earning a degree or certificate in diesel technology, diesel mechanics have numerous job opportunities and career stability in New Mexico. According to a report released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the career outlook for diesel mechanics is predicting a 15 percent growth by 2020, providing 35,200 more jobs across America.
Statistics show that companies in New Mexico hire 1,980 diesel mechanics, paying them an average salary of $42,950 annually.
A recent report by the BLS shows that the lowest 10 percent of diesel mechanics in New Mexico make $22,920 per year, and the highest 10 percent make $69,840 per year.
Depending on their educational requirements, previous work experience, and hiring company, diesel mechanics in New Mexico may find employment as:
- Diesel repair shop owners
- Municipal diesel mechanics
- Shipping fleet repair mechanics
- Charter bus diesel mechanics
- Large equipment repair mechanics
With an increase in demand for diesel-powered vehicles comes a greater demand for diesel mechanics throughout the commerce industry. Individuals who wish to find employment in New Mexico’s mechanic industry should earn a certificate or degree in diesel technology, increasing their marketability to potential employers and career stability in today’s recovering economy.
Diesel Mechanic Schools In New Mexico