What Kind of Education Do You Need to be a Diesel Mechanic?

Diesel engines are known to work hard. In fact, most of them are found in heavy-duty vehicles. You will find a diesel engine on cranes, trucks, boats, and buses, among other big vehicles. For the engines to run efficiently there has to be a person who knows how they operate and what can be done in case of a problem. This person is a diesel mechanic.

What do Diesel Mechanics do?

Diesel mechanics do several things ranging from routine engine inspections to engine rebuilds. They also do maintenance of diesel engines and repairs while keeping a record of all repairs done. Other things like checking inventory for vehicle parts is also important.

For a diesel mechanic to be efficient, they need to understand the electrical system of the vehicle as well as the engine functionality. Vehicle technology has evolved and become more computerized thus you will need to know how to use diagnostic computer software on advanced vehicle models.

How Much Will You Earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a diesel mechanic can earn up to $22.29 per hour or $46,360 annually. Getting the best post-secondary education can help you out when it comes times to look for work.

What are the Education Requirements?

Most diesel mechanics learn skills on the job. However, you will stand out if you get relevant training from a formal educational program. You can get a degree program in Heavy Vehicle Technology that should give you the relevant knowledge and skills needed in the automotive industry.

Getting the right training from an accredited institution will ensure that you receive both theoretical and practical knowledge and experience. It will make it easier for you to gain hands-on experience that will prepare you to be a heavy vehicle repair technician after you complete the program. You could also get a certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, which will increase your credibility.

Any Additional Job Skills Needed?

In addition to getting the relevant mechanical and technical knowledge, there are other skills you will need to be successful in the automotive industry. These include the following:

Customer Service

You need to know how to talk to customers about their problems and solutions for fixing their vehicles. You will need good customer service skills so you can keep customers. You can attract and retain customers if you are a good listener, communicator and are friendly to your customers. You should also be willing to answer their questions since unlike you, most customers do not know a lot about their vehicles.

Team Player

Diesel mechanics need to know how to work with the rest of the repair team. You will need to have good interpersonal skills and be a good team player so you can work well with others.

Attention to Detail

Being a diesel mechanic requires that you pay attention to every aspect of your job. A small mistake could result in more damage to the engine. You will need to have a keen eye for detail while dealing with engines and engine parts for you to lead in the industry.

Good Hand-eye Coordination

Mechanics are known to be good at working with their hands. To be great at your job, you need to have good hand-eye coordination. You need to tear and build engines up with several tools and if you are not coordinated, you will not be good at your job.

Up-to-date Knowledge

Learning is a never-ending process. For you to be the best diesel mechanic, you will need to ensure that you update your knowledge and skills from time to time. Automotive technology keeps changing and you need to evolve with it. Computerized vehicle systems have made it easier to diagnose and fix diesel engines but without the right skills, you will lose most of your customers when your current skill set is outdated.

The Future of Diesel Mechanics

The demand for diesel-powered vehicles is still rising and being a diesel mechanic will give you a chance to serve the diesel vehicle population. Jobs for diesel mechanics will be on the rise and the right training will get you the best opportunities.

What Next for You?

If you believe being a diesel mechanic could be the right career for you, you can contact Advanced Technology Institute for more information about this exciting degree program. The program, an Associate of Occupational Science in Heavy Vehicle Technology with Service Management, could be just what you’re looking for. Connect with ATI today to learn more about your options!