Heavy Diesel Technician
Interested in working with heavy equipment? Would you like to work with diesel-powered vehicles? The Gwinnett Tech Heavy Diesel program offers students the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of heavy diesel equipment and repair.
What is a Heavy Diesel technician?
A Heavy Diesel Service Technician works on diesel powered vehicles such as buses, large trucks, boats, bulldozers, dump trucks, cranes and even light-duty trucks and cars. Diesel mechanics perform a wide range of duties, from routine preventive maintenance to complete overhauls. Skills training starts with an inspection of the vehicle and progresses to use of diagnostic computer technology on today’s advanced vehicles. These tools help identify issues and determine any problems with the vehicle and corresponding corrective action. Diesel engines, being different from gasoline-powered engines have different needs and requirements when being serviced. It is essential that diesel mechanics understand the vehicle’s electrical system, powertrain and all of its working components.
Diesel engine maintenance and repair is becoming more complex as engines and other components use more electronic systems to control their operation. For example, fuel injection and engine timing systems rely on microprocessors to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize harmful emissions. In most shops, workers often use hand-held or laptop computers to diagnose problems and adjust engine functions.
Diesel technicians also use a variety of power and machine tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, grinding machines, and welding equipment.
Interested in learning more about our automotive programs? Attend one of our Monthly Information Sessions and speak to one of our instructors.
What are my program options?
- Heavy Diesel Technology Diploma
- Heavy Diesel Service Technician, Certificate
- Diesel Equipment HVAC and Maintenance Technician, Certificate
More Info…
Take the first step towards a career in Heavy Diesel Technology and apply for next semester! Important dates and deadlines are listed to get you started, and if you’re looking for ways to pay for your education, explore our scholarships for this program. You can also learn about our faculty and clubs and organizations to join!
Our Heavy Diesel advisory board will provide you with relevant industry-specific curriculum for today’s high-demand careers.
At the time of internship placement, second semester, dealerships/shops will conduct a criminal background check on students applying for placement. A satisfactory criminal background report is conditional for internship placement.
Issues affecting a background check may hinder a student’s participation in an internship program and may prevent a student from completing the program and/or securing a job upon graduation.
Students must be at least 18 years old to start the program.
**Due to the demand and popularity of automotive programs (Automotive Technology, Ford ASSET, Heavy Diesel, Mercedes-Benz, & Mopar CAP) at Gwinnett Technical College, new students must contact AutomotiveDivision@GwinnettTech.edu immediately after applying to the college to complete a program advisement form. Acceptance into Gwinnett Technical College does not guarantee immediate placement within these programs.
Can I work while I learn?
Class schedules are designed to encourage student employment in the heavy diesel industry while taking classes.
What career options will I have?
- Bus and RV Service Technician
- Fleet Maintenance
- Industrial and Construction Heavy Equipment Service Technician
- On-Road Tractor Trailer Service Facilities
- Rail Transportation Services
Tell me about the Heavy Diesel Program.
The Heavy Diesel Service Technician program provides training in both the theory and diagnosis of basic systems found on diesel engines and heavy equipment. This program provides instruction in basic shop safety and equipment, diesel engines and fuel systems, electrical/electronic systems, hydraulics, and power train systems. The program is designed to last one year and will offer students an opportunity to apply their skills in an internship environment at a local diesel equipment repair facility.
How much will it cost?
Gwinnett Tech offers affordability at $100 per credit hour + fees. Great opportunities for scholarships and financial aid with HOPE Grant, HOPE scholarship, HOPE Career Grants and more!