What Is the UTI Early Employment Program (EEP)?
The Early Employment Program (EEP) helps UTI students gain on-the-job experience from local employers. Learn more about the program here!
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Diesel Technology Degree: Expertise in Mechanics
Diesel engines play a crucial role in various sectors of transportation, from commercial vehicles to heavy-duty trucks. Understanding diesel mechanics is essential for diagnosing, repairing and maintaining these engines, ensuring their optimal performance and longevity.
As the automotive and diesel industries continue to evolve, diesel technology is becoming more sophisticated, incorporating advancements in efficiency, emissions control, and integration with emerging technologies.
For those interested in diesel tech, training opportunities are available at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), with some programs allowing students to earn Diesel Technology degrees.1
Benefits of a Diesel Technology Degree
Participating in diesel mechanic training can be beneficial for those interested in servicing and repairing these big engines. UTI’s Diesel Technology program offers students the opportunity to learn hands-on and gain skills needed to maintain and repair diesel engines.18
The core diesel program presents students with different graduating documents, depending on the campus they’ve attended. Some of these campuses offer the opportunity for students to graduate with a Diesel Technology degree, while others award students a diploma or certificate.
While diplomas and certificates are still a great way to showcase knowledge and education to employers, having a degree under your belt may be a goal of yours and can add a bit more oomph to your resume. A degree can help show your commitment to your craft, dedication and willingness to learn.
Most UTI campuses do offer students the opportunity to earn a degree if they take the core Diesel Technology program along with a Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) program, OR if they enroll in the combined Automotive/Diesel program, which features courses from both the core Auto and Diesel programs.
Depending on the campus and program, they may earn an occupational associate degree (OAD) or associate of occupational studies (AOS) degree.
READ: Check out a list of our degree, diploma and certificate program options
Curriculum and Courses
If you choose to train at UTI, we’ll build your knowledge from the ground up to ensure you know the ins and outs of diesel engines and related systems. Our emphasis is on practical, hands-on training so you can learn in-demand industry skills.
Our core diesel program topics include:
- Diesel Engines Service & Repair.
- Diesel Truck Manual Transmissions.
- Diesel Truck Brake Systems & Chassis.
- Diesel Truck Steering & Suspension Systems.
- Diesel Hydraulic Systems.
- Automotive Climate Control Systems and Repair.
- Vehicle Electronic Systems and Technology.
- Diesel Truck Transport Refrigeration.
- Diesel Truck Preventative Maintenance.
For those taking the combined Automotive/Diesel program, the core automotive program topics will also be included alongside those offered in the core diesel program. They are:
- Automotive Engines Service & Repair.
- Vehicle Steering and Suspension Service and Repair.
- Professional Automotive Service Writing.
- Automotive Powertrains & Transmissions.
- Vehicle Electronic Systems & Technology.
- Vehicle Brake Systems.
- Automotive Climate Control Systems and Repair.
- Automotive Power/Performance & Emissions Repair.
- Advanced Technology/Hybrid & Service Advising.
If you choose to take an MSAT program alongside your diesel technician training, the course topics covered in these can vary depending on the specific manufacturer you choose. MSAT programs include:
- Cummins Engines.46
- Cummins Power Generation.46
- Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First
Career Opportunities
Diesel technician employment is expected to exceed 308,000 by 2033 – that means there are opportunities out there for skilled technicians!48
Whether they obtain a degree, diploma or certificate, our grads are prepared to pursue entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work.77
Some potential diesel mechanic career opportunities for those interested in the diesel industry may include:
Entry-Level
- Diesel technician.
- Heavy equipment repair technician.
- Power generation technician.
- Agriculture technician
Advanced
- Mobile diesel mechanic.
- Master technician.
- Fleet manager.
- Shop foreman.
- Service manager.
- Shop owner.
When it comes to salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $58,970 in May 2023.29 This means half of diesel technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that a diesel mechanic salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
Industry Relationships and Internship Opportunities
As mentioned before, there are some diesel MSAT programs that, combined with core training, allow students the opportunity to earn a degree.
MSAT programs provide a great opportunity to focus more on specific industry brands. UTI’s relationships with these manufacturers help ensure curriculum is up-to-date and relevant to what techs are learning in the field.
Check out a brief overview of the current MSATs that offer diesel technology degree opportunities when combined with the core diesel program at select locations:
Cummins Engines
The 12-week Cummins Engines program helps provide students with the opportunity to learn about the Cummins brand of heavy-duty engines.9 They’ll learn about warranty specs, diagnosis and repair of cooling and fuel systems, emissions-related components and more.46
Cummins Power Generation
Over the course of 12 weeks, the Cummins Power Generation program focuses on engine maintenance of electric generators and power generation systems, as well as the equipment and controls that keep them running.9 Those who complete the curriculum also earn CMI Level 1 Technician status!46
Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First
The 12-week program provides students the opportunity to train hands-on, as they learn about DTNA brands like Freightliner, Cascadia and Western Star.9 Topics covered include heavy-duty truck systems, HVAC diagnostics, electronic troubleshooting and more. Plus, grads earn Professional Level Technician status.
Other Opportunities for Work Experience
Alongside MSAT training opportunities, there is potential for students to gain relevant work experience while still in school. Our Career Services team is available to help with everything from job searching to resume development, and many times, manufacturers will come to UTI campuses for career fairs!
UTI also offers an Early Employment Program (EEP), where participating employers offer qualified UTI auto or diesel students paid work experience, alongside consideration for full-time employment or other benefits after graduation.36
READ: What Is the UTI EEP program?
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Like any type of higher education, there are some admissions requirements to become familiar with to help ensure you are eligible to enroll in diesel mechanic training.
At UTI, students must be at least 16 years of age, and those under the age of 18 require a parent or guardian to complete the enrollment agreement.
Another basic requirement is to provide proof of high school qualifications. This can be different across the board and doesn’t mean you need a diploma. A state-issued GED or state-authorized equivalency exam are also accepted documents. UTI also accepts evidence of attending a Title IV-eligible program or successful completion of a postsecondary degree program.
While a minimum GPA is not required for acceptance into a core program at UTI, specific GPAs may be required to qualify for things like scholarships or enrollment into an MSAT program.
Speaking of scholarships, there are several potential ways students who qualify can help fund their education. We have an entire Financial Aid team dedicated to helping with this process, which includes looking at potential loans, grants or scholarships.10
READ: Trade School Requirements: Ultimate Application Guide
FAQ
What are the benefits of a diesel technology degree?
While having a degree is not a requirement for working in the diesel or automotive industries, it can help you stand out to prospective employers. A degree helps provide proof that you have an education focused on repairing and maintaining diesel engines and related equipment!
What job opportunities are available for someone with a diesel technology degree?
Graduates from UTI are prepared to pursue entry-level roles, but as with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work. Some common entry-level positions include diesel technicians, power generation techs and agricultural technicians. With more experience, advanced opportunities can include master technician, service manager and shop foreman!
How much do diesel technicians make?
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the United States was $54,360 in May 2022. This means half of diesel technicians earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.
Take Steps Toward a Diesel Technology Degree
Earning a degree with a focus on diesel technology can be beneficial when you’re ready to pursue a career in the industry! Fortunately, UTI offers several options for those with this goal.
To learn more about our degree program options, request more information or give us a call at 1-800-834-7308. We’re happy to help you take the first step toward the future!
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1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
9 ) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program.
10 ) Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.
18 ) UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine technician training in a blended-learning format consisting of online lecture courses along with in-person, hands-on lab training.
29 ) UTI’s Diesel Technology Program prepares graduates for entry-level positions using the provided training, primarily as diesel technicians. Estimated annual salary shown above is for Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages. Entry-level salaries are lower for UTI graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as diesel truck technicians, including in industries such as heavy equipment repair, power generation, and agriculture. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary range for persons employed as Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists (49-3031) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $48,980 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2022 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageAllIndustries/OEWResult?A=01&GA=000025&OG=493031&Dopt=TEXT). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled diesel technicians in North Carolina is $25.28 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages, Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $21.55 and $18.00, respectively.
36 ) Students enrolled in select UTI programs are eligible to apply for the Early Employment Program. Participating employers will contact selected applicants to conduct interviews. Hiring, employee retention and compensation decisions are made solely by the prospective employer. Employer participation and program details are subject to change. For additional information, please contact Career Services. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
46 ) Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.
48 ) The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that total national employment for Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists will be 308,700 by 2033. See Table 1.2 Occupational projections, 2023–33, and worker characteristics, 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, viewed November 4, 2024. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
77 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI prepares graduates for entry-level careers using the provided training. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than those listed.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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