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June 23

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A Career in Diesel Technology: Insights from Rush Truck Centers’ Service Manager

"I have hired quite a few technicians from UTI, and I have been very happy with the results. When they come in here, they have the basic knowledge that they need to get started..."

This article is for aspiring diesel technicians.  

Ever wonder what it takes to train for a career in the diesel industry? We spoke with Darrell Dobias, the service manager at Rush Truck Centers in Texas, and he's got the inside scoop on how to become ready to pursue a career in this dynamic industry. Read below to see it all!

First, Why Experience Matters

Darrell knows a thing or two about what makes a great technician.

"I really try and look for technicians that they're not (completely) fresh," he says.

It's not just about having a clean toolkit. It's about having a little grease under your nails and some knowledge to go with it. That's why UTI grads are catching his eye, as he tells us. According to him, they show up with "the basic knowledge that they need to at least get started, which is a huge help."

The Peterbilt Technician Career

At Rush Truck Centers, they roll with the big boys—Peterbilt is their bread and butter.

"Our No. 1 coverage here is Peterbilt," Darrell shares, and knowing these beasts inside and out gives new techs a head start. Think of it as learning to ride a bike, but the bike is a massive, roaring truck!

With Rush Truck Centers, a trained technician starts at level one, but it doesn’t have to stop there. Darrell describes the progression:

 "Most of the technicians that start here will start off as a level one technician,” he explains. “And then from that point on, they can graduate to level two all the way to level five.”

Level five allows for more engine and hands-on work with opportunity to keep growing at Rush Truck Centers. According to Darrell, every 90 days their techs’ skills are reviewed, and if they’re deemed ready, they can continue to move up in responsibility and even roles in the company.

Diesel: The Future is Bright

With Austin's booming construction scene, the diesel industry is hotter than a Texas summer.

"The diesel market here is not slowing, and diesel is definitely not going anywhere," Darrell assures us.

It’s not just Rush Truck Centers that offers variety in this industry. For those who graduate after UTI Diesel training, they are prepared to pursue entry-level roles that include:1

  • Diesel technician
  • Heavy equipment repair technician
  • Power generation technician
  • Agriculture technician

And as with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work.77For diesel, more advanced roles include:

  • Mobile diesel mechanic
  • Master technician
  • Fleet manager
  • Shop foreman
  • Service manager
  • Shop owner

So, whether you’re in it for the trucks or the tech, diesel training might be the ticket to pursuing a career doing what you love.

Ready to Roll?

If Darrell’s insights have sparked your interest, it might be time to consider UTI for your training journey. "I would definitely recommend UTI as a school if you're interested in the diesel field. It is a very, very good school," he affirms.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands dirty and your career training rolling at UTI. Enroll today and prepare to become the diesel tech you want to be!

To learn more about training in diesel with UTI, head to our Programs page.


A New Career Path Starts Here

Take 60 seconds and find out how you can get trained.

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.6) UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on personal credentials and economic factors. Work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer and their compensation programs affect wages. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.7) Some programs may require longer than one year to complete.8) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 51-week Automotive Technology program.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.11) See program details for eligibility requirements and conditions that may apply.15) Manufacturer-paid advanced training programs are conducted by UTI on behalf of manufacturers who determine acceptance criteria and conditions. These programs are not part of UTI’s accreditation. Programs available at select locations.24) UTI prepares graduates to work as entry-level automotive service technicians. Some graduates who take NASCAR-specific electives also may have job opportunities in racing-related industries. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.63) Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Wind Turbine Technicians, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/wind-turbine-technicians.htm. BLS projects total employment will increase from 11,400 in 2023 to 18,200 in 2033. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.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.79) UTI aviation maintenance programs prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA mechanic certification. Graduates who don’t obtain certification may have fewer career opportunities. Some graduates get jobs in aviation or related industries other than as aviation maintenance technicians. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment, salary or FAA certification.128) UTI will pay for certain third-party FAA certification exam fees for qualifying students. See catalog for details and requirements.

Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

*Registration Fee Waiver will apply to any student who enrolls by July 31, 2025, with a start date between March 31, 2025, and September 25, 2025.

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