Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology

Are you interested in having a secure future and being a part of a growing and profitable trade?

The diesel Industry is always in need of certified, highly educated technicians to keep its vehicles in top condition. Completing the diesel program at GTCC will put you at a higher level of expertise that is sought out by companies looking for their next superior technicians.

The transportation industry is one of the most profitable career paths available.

More than 80% of products we use daily were delivered by diesel powered vehicles. Someone must keep every truck, trailer, tractor, bulldozer, and large marine vessel operating in a safe, dependable, and profitable manner.

GTCC's modern state-of-the-art facilities and educational aids will ensure that you will be highly educated  by some of the best instructors in the business, and you can expect superior learning challenges from them.

Credentialing Options

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology Diploma - CIP Code: 47.0613

D 60 46 0

Contact: (336) 334-4822, ext 50054

This curriculum is designed to prepare individuals in developing the basic knowledge and skills needed for employment in diesel powered medium and heavy-duty vehicles.

Students will learn the purpose, construction features, and principles of operation of medium and heavy-duty vehicles.

Graduates should qualify for entry level employment as a technician in a dealership, fleet shop, or independent garage.

Program Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Heavy Equipment & Transport diploma, the graduate shall be able to:

  • Repair medium to heavy-duty diesel engines
  • Replace diesel engine components
  • Repair medium to heavy-duty vehicle mechanical systems such as drive train, suspension and steering, and braking systems
  • Repair medium to heavy-duty vehicle electrical and electronic systems and components
  • Repair medium to heavy-duty vehicle climate control systems to include heating and air conditioning systems and their controls
  • Perform preventative maintenance inspections
  • Demonstrate compliance with industry personal and environmental safety practices

Fall Semester I

Total Credits: 18

Spring Semester I

Total Credits: 18

Summer Semester I

Total Credits: 8

Total credit hours required for diploma: 44

Electives

1. WBL Elective

Take one course from:

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https://catalog.gtcc.edu/index.php?catoid=14
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program

Frequently Asked Questions

You will need to follow the general enrollment process for GTCC.  During the advising process you will have the opportunity to indicate your desire to study within this curriculum. Your advisor will help you sign up for the specific courses you need. Feel free to contact anyone in the Diesel Program to set up an appointment!

Steven Matthews, Department Chair, Transportation

Jeff Faircloth,  Program Coordinator, Automotive Systems Technologies

William Yokley, Instructor, Diesel Program

Yes, Financial aid is available if you qualify. Please visit the Financial Aid web page or contact the Financial Aid office at 336-334-4822 Option 3.

Maybe. Did you place into DRE098 (Developmental English)?  Do you have a high school diploma?

  • Required text books, calculator, general school supplies / paper, pencil, binder, etc.
  • Steel toe shoes or boots, safety glasses, and appropriate clothing
  • Tools, such as wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, etc. Download a list of tools.
Some of these items are available through the campus bookstore.

If you complete the Diesel Certificate program, you would expect to enter the field with a salary range of $30,000 to $39,000 depending on your motivation and position obtained.

If you complete diploma program, you would expect to enter the field with a salary range of $30,000 to $55,000 depending on your motivation and position obtained.

A technician with three to five years of experience should expect to earn a salary up to $40,000-$80,000. Top technicians in our area can earn up to and possibly over $100,000 depending on skillset and motivation. Managers in our areas have salary ranges of $60,000-$150,000 depending on the business.

The Diesel program is, currently, offered during the day, from 8 a.m. to approximately 12:30 p.m. With this schedule, you can attend classes and have a job.

Future plans are in effect to offer evening classes which will operate from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This will depend upon future interest in the evening program.

You can obtain a job before you are finished with the diploma or degree programs. Job placement depends on work ethic, attendance, and class performance. Normally, top performers are employed before they graduate.

There are certificates offered for classes that are completed throughout the curriculum. Two years of school satisfies one of the two years of experience requirements for the ASE test. Since GTCC is NATEF Certified, we work to ensure the highest standards are achieved towards the completion of the ASE.  Automotive Service Excellence is one of the most sought after certifications in the Diesel Repair Field. You can learn more at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence website.  

Approximate average is $1,500.00 per semester for tuition and books.

  • Tools = $800 minimum (Student discounts offered by several tool vendors)
  • Books = $150 to $1,000 per semester (depending on courses/program taken)
  • Tuition = $1,000 to $1,250 per semester (certificate requires one semester; diploma requires three semesters)