Career Description
Two program options allow students to prepare for careers in maintenance, repair, and diagnostics of diesel equipment. This program concentrates on the hydraulic/hydrostatic, power train, electrical/electronics, and engine systems of off-road construction equipment such as crawlers, excavators, backhoes, front end loaders, motor graders, and skid steer loaders.

Program Information
There are two program options. The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technician Diploma is an eleven-month program consisting of a Fall and Spring semester plus an accelerated six-week summer session. The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree consists of all coursework from the Technician Diploma program plus and an additional 20 elective credits. A minimum of 16 of the elective credits must be General Education courses from at least three of the goal areas of the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC).

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
1. Apply safe shop and equipment practices
2. Demonstrate proper use and care of shop and personal tools
3. Inspect, diagnose, and conduct failure analysis and perform preventative maintenance inspections in electrical, hydraulic, engines and power train systems
4. Use service resources and software technologies
5. Apply fundamental skills and concepts to problem solving situations
6. Communicate effectively in written and speaking in diesel mechanics industry situations
7. Demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and professionalism

Special Program Requirements
Students enrolled in these programs must supply their own basic tool sets. A guideline of what tools are needed is available from admissions. A pre-enrollment drug test is required of all students. Enrolled students will remain in a random drug testing consortium.

Employment Opportunities
Graduating students find employment at original equipment manufacturing dealerships, construction contractors, independent repair facilities, federal, state and local government agencies, and the related forestry industry.

Gainful Employment (pdf)

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology AAS Program Planning Form (pdf)

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology Diploma Program Planning Form (pdf)