Diesel Mechanics - Diploma

Program Description

Diesel mechanics understand the diesel engine. They can troubleshoot, repair and adjust it; they are knowledgeable about fuel injection and turbochargers as well as electrical and hydraulic systems.

Heavy equipment mechanics repair all parts of large trucks, buses, construction and earth moving equipment. They inspect, test and repair heavy equipment systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics and electrical.

HCC's Diesel and Heavy Equipment program provides a modern equipped diesel shop including a fuel injector room and use of an engine dynamometer. Students learn theory and application of 2-cycle and 4-cycle engines, electrical and hydraulic systems, clutches, heavy equipment, recordkeeping, power transmissions, and steering, brakes and tires.

Employment Opportunities

Diesel mechanics and heavy equipment mechanics secure jobs with road construction companies, trucking companies, the mining industry, bus lines and logging and diesel equipment dealers. Government agencies hire mechanics to maintain their diesel-powered equipment.

Gainful employment programs are those “that prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.” Public institutions are required to report this information for all undergraduate and graduate programs that are Title IV eligible and that lead to certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates or specialist awards. Reporting is not required for undergraduate certificates and diplomas less than 16 credits and graduate certificates and specialist awards that are less than 8 credits. Degree programs at all levels are not considered to be gainful employment programs.