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Diesel Mechanic School Near Fort Lauderdale
Diesel mechanics are essential to the industries that keep our society running, such as agriculture, transportation and power generation, and their skills are in demand across the nation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), total diesel technician employment in the United States is expected to exceed 294,000 by 2032.48
Florida is no exception to the demand for diesel mechanic skills. If you live Fort Lauderdale, take the first step toward a career that matters by pursuing a diesel mechanic education.
A diesel mechanic career can be exciting for critical thinkers who enjoy problem-solving and using their hands. If this sounds like you, keep reading to learn about diesel mechanic schools near you, diesel mechanic career outlook and more.
Diesel Mechanic Training
Diesel mechanic training programs, such as the one offered at Universal Technical Institute’s (UTI) Miramar campus, help equip aspiring mechanics with the basic knowledge they need to perform diesel-engine maintenance, diagnosis and repair.1 This can consist of:
- Replacing faulty parts
- Carrying out routine maintenance, such as oil changes
- Testing vehicle parts and systems, such as transmissions, engines, braking and steering
A well-rounded program can also help graduates gain the entry-level skills many employers are looking for. Let’s discuss specific things to look for during your “diesel mechanic school near me” search to guarantee you’re choosing the best option.
Diesel Mechanic Schools in Florida
While looking for diesel mechanic schools in Florida, examine whether or not their curriculum is relevant to current industry standards.
UTI has various industry relationships with manufacturers, aftermarket parts companies and employers who have helped us craft the curriculum. 1 Students receive industry-aligned instruction and hands-on practice in labs that represent those in the field.
Another important thing to consider is if the diesel mechanic school offers Career Services. UTI’s Miramar campus offers career development classes, career coaching, on-campus interview training and practice, access to a nationwide job database and resume development.
Last but certainly not least, make sure the training program is accredited. UTI programs are accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) — an agency recognized by the Department of Education whose mission is to ensure a quality education.
UTI Miramar Diesel Mechanic Courses
UTI’s diesel mechanic program isn't only designed to prepare graduates to pursue a career, but also to take Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams. UTI trains our students with the following courses:
- Diesel Engines Service & Repair
- Diesel Truck Manual Transmissions
- Diesel Truck Brake Systems & Chassis
- Diesel Truck Steering & Suspension Systems
- Automotive Climate Control Systems & Repair
- Diesel Hydraulic Systems
- Vehicle Electronic Systems & Technology
- Diesel Truck Transport Refrigeration
- Diesel Truck Preventative Maintenance
Our curriculum also focuses on helping students develop the soft skills necessary for a career, such as communication and professionalism.
UTI diesel tech graduate, Angela Barbosa, shared, “The requirements they have as far as professionalism, attendance and classwork were very relevant for what I’m doing in my apprenticeship now. All of that prepared me for not just the environment I’m working in but also changed me on a personal level for the better.”6
Diesel Mechanic Career Outlook Near Fort Lauderdale
Florida could be a great place to pursue a diesel mechanic career. According to the BLS:
- There were 11,680 diesel mechanics employed in Florida in May 2021.48
- That makes Florida among the top five states with the highest employment level of diesel mechanics.
- The median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in Florida was $52,040 in May 2022.29 This means half of the 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.
Diesel Mechanic Jobs in Fort Lauderdale
Aspiring diesel mechanics can pursue careers in various industries, including trucking and transportation, state and local governments, field service, repair and maintenance and power generation. UTI graduates can pursue the following entry-level roles.
- Diesel technicians service, diagnose, repair, troubleshoot, and overhaul vehicles with a diesel engine, such as buses and trucks.
- Power generation techs maintain, diagnose, and repair power generation systems fueled by diesel, such as gaseous engines, combustion engines and generators.
- Agriculture technicians typically work on farms or for farm equipment manufacturers, servicing and repairing equipment like tractors, tillers and drills.
Most of our grads start out working as entry-level technicians or in other entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, you may be able to advance in your career with hard work. Here are a few advanced roles in this industry:77
- Master technicians are responsible for determining the best course of action for repair. Their expertise is evident through an ASE master certification.
- Fleet managers ensure the appropriate service, usage, and repair for a fleet of diesel-powered vehicles or machines.
- Shop foremen supervise a team of diesel mechanics and the equipment they service.
Getting From Fort Lauderdale to UTI Miramar
UTI’s Miramar campus is approximately 27 miles southwest of Fort Lauderdale. Commuters can take the I-595 West and I-75 South to get there. Find detailed directions below:
- Take the I-595 West for approximately 10 miles.
- Exit onto I-75 South/Miami.
- Take the I-75 South until Exit 9A for Pines Boulevard/FL-820 E.
- Follow FL-820 East/Pines Boulevard and Southwest 145th Avenue into Miramar.
- Turn right onto Southwest 145th Avenue.
- In approximately 2 miles, the destination will be on your left.
In addition to Fort Lauderdale, other nearby communities include Miami, Hollywood, Boca Raton and Kissimmee. Some students unwind at one of the nearby beaches, while others pay a visit to the Homestead-Miami Speedway!
Other Programs at UTI Miramar
Not sure about diesel mechanic school? Additional UTI Miramar programs offered include:
Automotive Mechanic School
Miramar automotive school is an intensive 51-week program7 that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers the field.
From engine service and repair to advanced technology, hybrid services advising, powertrains and transmissions, vehicle brakes systems, as well as electronic systems and climate control technologies, the courses cover the basics of automotive technology. Completion of these courses earns students an occupational associate degree (OAD).
Through industry-aligned instruction and hands-on application in labs that mirror real-world shops, students are prepared to pursue entry-level positions within a variety of industries when they graduate.1
Welding School
UTI’s welding school is a 36-week program developed in conjunction with Lincoln Electric — an industry leader in welding equipment and materials.
The curriculum covers everything from safety standards to the basics of the four types of arc welding. Throughout the program, students gain experience learning with the tools and machines found in the field.
Upon graduating, they’ll have entry-level welding skills and a diploma. Most welding school graduates enter the workforce as entry-level fabrication welders, wirers and welder fitters.77
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
While some diesel mechanics receive on-the-job training after high school, the BLS reports that employers may prefer candidates with a postsecondary mechanic education. Attending a technical school may better prepare you to pursue a career and may ease the transition into the field.
The amount of time it takes to become a mechanic depends on the path you take. UTI Miramar’s diesel mechanic school is a 45-week program.7
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 $54,360 in May 2022.29 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.
Train to Become a Diesel Mechanic at UTI Miramar
Take the first step toward a diesel mechanic career with training from UTI Miramar. In less than one year, you could gain the technical skills that employers desire.7 Can't wait to get started? Request more information online or schedule a campus tour today!