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Interested in a hands-on career like diesel mechanic? We’ve got hands-on diesel training that can teach you skills needed in just 45 weeks.1,7,18
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) links arms with industry leaders to create a learning environment that reflects the field, so students can experience what it’s like to be a diesel technician before graduating. And upon graduation, they’ll have the skills employers value.
But UTI’s commitment to preparing students for careers extends past just textbook instruction. Keep reading for three ways our diesel mechanic trade school helps graduates take the first steps toward a career.
1. Specialized Diesel Training With Leading Brands
UTI has established a strong reputation in the industries we train students to enter. Our knack for training career-ready technicians has allowed us to build relationships with diesel powerhouses Peterbilt,15 Cummins46 and Daimler Truck North America.
Alongside these brands, we’ve created specialized training programs that students can complete after the 45-week core diesel program. Each program helps students develop manufacturer-specific knowledge that prepares them to pursue careers with large industry names.
Peterbilt Technician Institute
The Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI) is a 12-week program, and qualifying graduates who go to work for a participating Peterbilt dealership after the program could get their tuition paid for by the manufacturer!9,15
PTI students train on the brand’s heavy-duty trucks, products and technology. The program begins with an introduction to Peterbilt’s specialized tooling and software, later advancing into hands-on practice servicing the brand’s heavy-duty engines, including the PACCAR MX engine series.
Highly valued by over 400 Peterbilt dealerships across North America, students can earn nine industry-recognized certifications that demonstrate their readiness to maintain, diagnose and repair Peterbilt's vehicles.
Cummins Engines
The significance of UTI’s relationship with Cummins cannot be overstated. Cummins holds a third of the market share in its sector, so developing skills that prepare you to work on the leading brands' engines may give you a competitive edge compared to candidates without this specialized training.
As a manufacturer that is eager to familiarize UTI’s students with its equipment line, the Cummins Engines 12-week program can teach students skills needed to succeed.9 Cummins invests directly in our labs, allowing students to get hands-on practice servicing their engines and equipment. Moreover, select students can receive sponsorship at one of the Cummins Distributors post-graduation, showcasing the manufacturers’ trust in our training.14
Graduates of this program can also earn Cummins qualifications that prepare them for a career at a Cummins distributor or authorized dealer!
Cummins Power Generation
Generators help keep the economy running, and you can learn to maintain them at UTI’s diesel school! The 12-week Cummins Power Generation training shows students around electrical generators and power generation systems, covering commercial and personal applications.9
Students learn to work on Cummins Power Generation equipment, earning nine Cummins-specific qualifications along the way. Graduates of this program are also qualified as CMI Level 1 Technicians. Direct exposure to Cummins’ technology enhances their practical skills and aligns their knowledge with the needs of a globally recognized brand.
Graduates leave the program ready to perform preventative maintenance on Cummins Power Generation equipment and take on the challenges of an evolving sector.
Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First
DTNA is ranked as America’s no. 1 heavy-duty truck manufacturer, and this program can help prepare students for a career in this industry. For 12 weeks, students dive into the intricacies of maintaining, diagnosing and repairing Daimler trucks, including Freightliner, Cascadia and Western Star.9
A focus on real-world application is central to the DTNA Finish First program. Students learn to navigate the complexities of heavy-duty truck systems, electrical and electronic troubleshooting, HVAC diagnostics and more. Direct support from Daimler enhances courses, as they provide us with state-of-the-industry trucks for hands-on learning.
The program's close ties with DTNA also present hiring incentives to select graduates through tuition and tool reimbursements.14 By the end of the program, graduates can achieve Professional Level Technician status and earn two certifications!
2. Diesel is Everywhere: Build Skills for Diverse Industries
One of the largest misconceptions we hear is that trade schools for diesel mechanics only prepare students for the trucking industry.
UTI's diesel mechanic trade school includes diverse course topics, like Diesel Engines Service & Repair, Diesel Hydraulic Systems, Vehicle Electronic Systems and Technology, Diesel Truck Transport Refrigeration and more, providing students with fundamental skills that prepare them to work on:
- Mining equipment.
- Cruise ships.
- Trains.
- Planes.
- Buses.
- Emergency vehicles.
- Generators used by hospitals, stadiums and other commercial buildings.
- Refrigeration units on trucks that transport essentials like food and pharmaceuticals.
The diesel skills you gain at UTI can be used in a number of industries. Just see what UTI diesel instructor, Anna Feroci-Schroeder, has to say about it.
3. Hands-on Training for a Hands-on Career
Students spend a portion of their time at UTI in hands-on labs, learning the ins and outs of diesel engines and the equipment they power.18
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students practice handling industry tools and technology, including:
- Hand tools.
- OEM software and manuals.
- Diagnostic test equipment.
- OEM specialty tools.
- EM service tools.
- Hydraulic simulators.
- Refrigerant scales.
- Brazing torches.
- Coolant exchange machine.
- Smoke opacity tester.
UTI diesel grad David Hopf shared, “My favorite part about going to school was all the hands-on experience. I was never one for just sitting there getting a textbook thrown at me.”
If you’re anything like David, the hands-on portion of the program can help you graduate with the confidence needed for a career in this dynamic field.
Elevate Your Diesel Training
UTI’s diesel mechanic trade school trains students for roles like diesel technician, heavy equipment repair technician, power generation technician or agriculture technician.
Students who pair the core diesel courses with Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training from Peterbilt, Cummins or Daimler Truck North America can sharpen their skill set and pursue roles with leading names in the industry, preparing them for a future to be proud of.
Ready to take the first step?
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.