In the competitive world of diesel technology, getting specialized training can help you stand out from the crowd. Additionally, earning manufacturer-specific diesel certifications is a powerful way to showcase your skills, proving to employers that you have the brand-specific knowledge needed to work on their engines.
Keep reading to learn about how these diesel mechanic certifications can help you in your pursuit of a diesel technician career and how you can take steps toward earning them, including enrolling in a diesel training program like the one offered at Universal Technical Institute (UTI).1
What Are Manufacturer-Specific Certifications?
Earning manufacturer-specific certifications shows that a diesel technician is trained and skilled to work on specific brands of vehicles. The training needed to achieve these certifications provides in-depth knowledge of a specific brand’s diesel engines, diagnostics and repair procedures, helping set certified technicians apart from general diesel technicians.
Why Manufacturer-Specific Certifications Matter
Manufacturer-specific recognitions
Aspiring diesel technicians may be able to earn specific recognitions depending on the program they’re in. For example, those who complete UTI’s Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First program earn Total Truck Care (TTC) Professional Level Certification and Detroit Diesel (DD) Heavy Duty Systems Certification, while students who finish the Cummins Engines program are qualified on the ISX15 Engine Platform and classified as CMI Level 1 Technicians.
More competitive skill set
Many dealerships and fleet service centers prefer or require technicians to have some level of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) training. Holding these certifications may help make technicians more competitive in the job market, especially compared to techs without this specialized knowledge.
Experience with brand-specific tools, technology and training
Diesel technicians with manufacturer-specific certifications typically have more experience using specialized diagnostic tools and software and know how to perform more advanced repair procedures. This specialized knowledge allows them to efficiently diagnose and repair a manufacturer’s diesel systems, improving service quality and efficiency.
Popular Manufacturer-Specific Programs for Diesel Technicians
There are numerous programs that can help aspiring diesel technicians gain training with a specific brand, and some schools offer specialized training where students get the chance to earn manufacturer-specific certification.
UTI offers a 45-week Diesel Technology training program that provides foundational training for the diesel industry.7 Combining hands-on training with online learning, graduates gain the skills needed for careers in the industry.18
Should they choose to further their education, UTI is a diesel technician school with manufacturer training modules. We offer the following Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs.11
Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First
The DTNA Finish First program provides specialized training for brands like Western Star, Cascadia and Freightliner. Over 12 weeks, students learn about topics like heavy-duty truck systems, electrical and electronics troubleshooting, HVAC diagnostics, and more. Plus, graduates earn Professional Level Technician status and come away with six certifications.
Cummins Engines
The Cummins Engines program focuses on maintenance, repair and optimization of Cummins-powered engines and equipment. This 12-week program results in graduates becoming qualified on the ISX15 Engine Platform and classified as CMI Level 1 technicians.46
Cummins Power Generation
The 12-week Cummins Power Generation specialized training program helps students learn the fundamentals of power generation, focusing on equipment and controls alongside engine maintenance.46 Graduates are classified as CMI Level 1 technicians and receive NFPA-70e Certification, which is the standard for electrical safety. Grads also get the chance to earn several other Cummins Power Generation certifications, including AC Generators, PCC, and ATS.
Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI)
Peterbilt Technician Institute is designed for technicians who want to specialize in Peterbilt trucks, offering hands-on training with advanced diagnostics, emissions control and repair techniques.15 The program is 12 weeks and graduates earn nine certifications.
How to Earn a Manufacturer-Specific Certification
Enrolling in a core training program
The first step to earning a manufacturer-specific diesel certification is often to enroll in a training program to get a core foundation of knowledge as a diesel technician, like what’s offered in the Diesel Technology program at UTI.
Getting this type of education from a diesel trade school can help make it easier to apply for manufacturer-specific training programs that feature leading brands, where you can pursue manufacturer-specific certifications.
Completing hands-on training and testing
Most manufacturer-specific certifications require practical experience with the brand’s diesel systems and components. Often, the completion of a specialized training program will result in the graduate obtaining certifications and even certain levels of technician status for the brand specifically.
Continue training in a diesel technician school with manufacturer training modules
One of the easiest ways to earn a manufacturer-specific certification is to continue your education after you complete the core program at the same trade school. UTI offers manufacturer-specific training that makes it possible to learn skills specific to a brand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diesel Manufacturer Training
Why do employers value diesel technicians with OEM training?
Employers often value diesel technicians who complete OEM training because it shows they’ve been trained with brand-specific tools, systems and repair procedures. This type of training helps technicians develop job-ready skills on the same equipment used in the field, which can make it easier for employers to onboard them and integrate them into their workflow.
How long does it take to complete diesel technician school and specialized certifications?
Diesel technician training programs can often be completed in less than a year, depending on the school and program structure. For example, UTI’s core Diesel training program takes 45 weeks to complete, with additional manufacturer-specific training and certifications available afterward. These manufacturer training programs all run 12 weeks, so training in one after the core program will lengthen your time in school.
How can manufacturer-specific training help advance a diesel technician career?
Manufacturer-specific training can help diesel technicians build deeper expertise in certain brands or systems, which may open the door to more specialized roles.
Do I need prior experience before enrolling in a diesel technician training program?
Many diesel technician schools do not require prior experience to enroll. UTI’s Diesel program is designed to teach foundational skills from the ground up, making it accessible to all skill levels.
What tools and technology do diesel technicians use during manufacturer-specific training?
During manufacturer-specific training, diesel technicians may learn with a range of industry-standard tools and technology. This can include diagnostic software, OEM scan tools, electronic control module (ECM) systems, multimeters, and hands-on equipment used to service engines, fuel systems and emissions components. Training mirrors real-world shop environments to help students learn practical skills that will translate to the field post-graduation.
Invest in Your Skill Set With Manufacturer-Specific Training
Earning a manufacturer-specific certification is an investment in your pursuit of a career as a diesel technician. These credentials can help take your skills to the next level and can be a great way to boost your resume.
You can get started by enrolling in UTI’s Diesel Technology program and getting the background of knowledge and training that can help you when pursuing manufacturer-specific training. If you choose to pursue additional manufacturer training, you’ll have options to choose from at our diesel technician school. Learn more by connecting with an Admissions Rep today!
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.