DIESEL MECHANIC PROGRAM OVERVIEW
With the Diesel Technology program at Universal Technical Institute’s campus in Miramar, Florida, you’ll have the opportunity to train hands-on in our labs on big-rig brands found in the industry, thanks to our industry relationships.
Here are some other reasons to attend diesel mechanic school at UTI’s Miramar, FL, campus:
- Get help from dedicated teams that can assist with financial aid,10 housing and employment.1
- Train on state-of-the-industry engines and equipment.
- Learn from experienced instructors who are supportive and provide useful insight.
DIESEL MECHANIC TRAINING
Diesel technicians must stay up to date with technology so they can use it to do their jobs. In addition to being comfortable with technology, skilled diesel technicians also read work orders, test and diagnose for repairs, discuss repair processes with customers, and perform basic maintenance and repairs on diesel engines and equipment.
This can be an exciting career path. Just like any career, however, it comes with its own set of unique challenges that require diesel technicians to have a specific set of skills.
What Makes Diesel Technician Training Different With UTI:
- Connections with employers1
- Complete the program in less than a year7
- No prior experience needed
- Hands-on learning that mirrors real-world experience18
DIESEL MECHANIC COURSES IN MIRAMAR, FL
UTI Miramar offers a curriculum built closely with industry leaders and includes hands-on training in our labs, so students can feel confident when pursuing careers after graduation.1 Here are some diesel training courses offered at UTI Miramar:
Diesel Engines Service & Repair
Students cover the fundamentals of engine repair and operation by learning the various components that make up the internal combustion engine. They work on diesel engines, learn all the parts and what they do, build the entire engine, and then move on to electrical diagnosis, fuel systems and valve adjustments.
Diesel Truck Manual Transmissions
Students learn the theories and principles behind diesel transmissions. They completely disassemble and learn all the parts: what they do and how to troubleshoot, diagnose, and spot wear and tear. There are a lot of moving pieces in a manual transmission, and it’s critical to ensure each one is returned to the case in the order it came out. Students will then completely reassemble the transmission.
Diesel Truck Brake Systems & Chassis
This course begins with a fundamental overview of brakes, including brake theory, foundation and types of brakes, along with the air supply system. Students are introduced to a variety of tools used for diagnosing concerns with the brake system. This course also covers hydraulic brake systems, ABS electronic systems, automatic traction control, power assist units and high-pressure brake system diagnostics. This is very important, as a full tractor trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. That can be a lot of weight to stop in a short distance!
Diesel Truck Steering & Suspension Systems
This portion of the diesel technician training program introduces students to the diagnosis and service of wheels and tires, front hub assemblies, steering linkage, gear boxes, the steering column, power steering pumps, and rear suspension systems and alignment. These trucks need to be safe on the road, so knowing how the suspension works is key.
Automotive Climate Control Systems and Repair
Students learn about EPA rules and regulations, the different types of refrigerants and oils in the market today, and how to handle them properly. Additionally, students learn about the potential dangers of working with refrigerant and high system pressures and how to avoid such situations.
Diesel Hydraulic Systems
Students learn the fundamentals of hydraulic theory, how to understand and interpret schematics, symbols, and hydraulic and hydrostatic system operation, and how to troubleshoot and repair. They learn the proper procedures to safely work on hydraulic systems and will build and test systems using common hydraulic system components, as well as the proper inspection and maintenance procedures of hydraulic systems.
Vehicle Electronic Systems and Technology
Students learn the science of electrical principles and electricity and how they’re related to automotive technology. They’ll also learn Ohm’s law, and with that understanding learn to use a digital multimeter to read voltage, resistance and amps. Coursework also covers how various electrical components operate, as well as how to read wiring diagrams and build and test circuits.
Diesel Truck Transport Refrigeration
Students combine what they’ve learned about HVAC systems and diesel engine training courses and apply that knowledge on an industrial scale. They learn the fundamentals of industrial refrigeration and its applications in the trucking industry. They learn how to maintain, diagnose and repair transport refrigeration units to ensure they’re operating properly.
Diesel Truck Preventative Maintenance
Students learn how to properly perform Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections based on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines. These inspections are used to evaluate the vehicle and ensure it meets the necessary federal safety standards to be on the road. Students also learn the manufacturers’ maintenance procedures designed to reduce failures.
CAREER OUTLOOK & OPPORTUNITIES
Attending diesel mechanic school at UTI Miramar can help students pursue entry-level careers in the industry. 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. Some entry-level or advanced roles could include:77
Entry-level
- Diesel technician
- Heavy equipment repair technician
- Power generation technician
- Agriculture technician
Advanced
- Mobile diesel technician
- Master technician
- Fleet manager
- Shop foreman
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report, the median annual salary for bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in the South Florida area was $56,190 in May 2022.29 This means half 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.
ABOUT THE CAMPUS
Hands-on training in our labs, supportive instructors, nearby beaches — there’s a lot to love about UTI Miramar!
UTI Miramar offers state-of-the-industry labs where students can receive industry-aligned training to feel prepared to pursue careers in the diesel industry in just 45 weeks.7 See what makes UTI Miramar a great place to train by taking a campus tour.
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
For those looking for an in-demand career that allows them to work with their hands, the diesel industry can be a great career path to pursue. There are also a number of career paths in this industry, which could include: Mobile diesel mechanic, diesel automotive repair and maintenance, diesel service manager, agricultural mechanic, and power generation technician.77
On any given day, a diesel technician will inspect, repair and overhaul buses and trucks. They also specialize in the maintenance and repair of any type of diesel engine. From boats to bulldozers, diesel mechanics have an in-depth understanding of a vehicle’s engine, including the electrical system and all of its working parts.
Program length varies depending on the diesel mechanic school you choose. UTI Miramar’s diesel mechanic training can be completed in just 45 weeks.7
DIESEL MECHANIC TRAINING NEAR ME
Conveniently located in South Florida between Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, UTI Miramar is close to beautiful beaches, state parks, national preserves, amusement parks and stunning golf courses, so there are plenty of things to do while training. Plus, you can complete diesel mechanic training in 45 weeks, so you can feel confident pursuing a career in an industry you’re passionate about.7
UTI MIRAMAR CAMPUS LOCATION
2601 SW 145th Avenue
Miramar, FL 33027
M-F | 8am-5pm | Hours
Campus Tours
TU&TH | 10am, 2pm, 6pm
W | 10 am & 2 pm
F&SAT | 10am
& 1pm
754-946-5595| Campus
800-834-7308 | Admissions
844-338-0033 | Financial Aid
407-232-5259| Housing
866-609-6928 | Student & Career Services
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