Diesel
Area of Study

Diesel Technology

Master Truck Service Technology (MTST) accredited program designed to provide diesel technician training in Diesel Engines, Drive trains, Brakes, Steering & Suspension systems, Electrical & Electronic systems, HVAC, Cab Instrumentation, and Hydraulics.

Northeastern's Diesel Technology Program trains students for the medium to heavy duty truck industry.

A new career path starts here

With the fleet of vehicles on the roads today growing by the day, there's never been a higher demand for professional diesel mechanics to keep those vehicles running smoothly. With this program, students learn about everything from basic diesel engine repair to more advanced skills like diagnostics and troubleshooting. And with career paths as diverse as fire and rescue, fleet maintenance, and even working for companies like BNSF Railway, UPS, Fed-Ex, or Waste Management. Companies like John Deere offer generous tuition reimbursements and tool packages as well. 

What You'll Learn

If you're looking for a career in diesel technology, Northeastern Junior College has you covered. In their Diesel Technology Program, you'll have the opportunity to learn all about the electrical systems, air brake systems, engine performance, and steering and suspensions that make these powerful machines run. Not only will you gain hands-on experience with these complex systems, but you'll also learn about industry regulations and safety protocols that are crucial for success in this field. With highly qualified instructors and state-of-the-art facilities, Northeastern Junior College's Diesel Technology program will help you gain the skills you need to succeed in the exciting world of diesel technology.

Future diesel mechanics posing on stairs

What's Different About Northeastern's Diesel Technology Program?

Northeastern Junior College's Diesel Technology Program is more than just your average college program. For starters, Northeastern focuses on providing their students a well-rounded college experience. Whether you're a commuter or a resident, Northeastern's campus is vibrant and full of opportunities to get involved in student life. Secondly, the program is affordable and offers financial aid to those who need it. But what really sets Northeastern's Diesel Technology Program apart is the emphasis they place on hands-on experience. Many other programs focus on theory only, but Northeastern takes pride in its facilities that provide students with the chance to hone their craft and gain practical knowledge. These facilities include a full-scale diesel engine lab and a fleet of diesel powered machines, such as tractors and construction rigs in addition to trucks, which allow students to work on real-world projects and be career-ready upon graduation.

Certified Diesel Technicians are in High Demand

If you're looking for a career that's in high demand and pays well, consider becoming a certified diesel technician. Northeastern Junior College's Diesel Technology Program can prepare you with the skills and knowledge needed for success in this exciting and rapidly growing field. According to recent Labor Statistics, the demand for diesel technicians is expected to increase over the coming years, making this an ideal time to enter the field. With an impressive 80% pass rate on industry certification exams, our program has a proven track record of helping students achieve success. And with a 90% placement rate for graduates, you can feel confident in your ability to find a fulfilling career after completing the program.

Diesel mechanic testing hydraulics

Degree Types Offered

At Northeastern Junior College, students interested in pursuing a career in Diesel Technology have a range of options available to them. Whether you're looking to earn a degree or a certificate, the college has you covered. The Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology is a comprehensive program that includes hands-on training and classes in topics like engine performance, electrical systems, and diesel fuel systems. For those who want to specific diesel technician training, the college offers seven certificates in subjects like air conditioning and hydraulics. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue Diesel and Automotive master technician certificate in addition to the diesel technology associate degree to have a broader foundation for their future.

Work with experienced instructors

Excellent instruction awaits you at Northeastern. You’ll be learning from diesel engine specialists who have worked in the industry and know first hand what needs to be taught in diesel technology courses for technicians to truly be job-ready. The faculty regularly attend advanced training programs to stay current with emerging technology skills.

A hands on training experience with partnerships with national companies

Stemco Representative presenting to students

The Diesel Technology shop is well equipped with tools and is constantly being updated to make sure students have what they need in order to learn. The Diesel Technology Program at Northeastern is proud of the many partnerships that have been established with Freightliner, CAT, Transwest, Halliburton, RTD, Wickham Tractor, Case IH, John Deere, and Cummins, to name a few.  

These companies have donated valuable equipment and host online web-based training for Northeastern Diesel students. These connections and partnerships translate into employment opportunities for graduating students.

There is no tool requirements for first year students

The Diesel Technology program first year students will be provided a basic set of tools to use to perform various lab assignments.  Second year students are required to have their own tools so that upon completion of the program they will be equipped to go right to work.  Several tool company sales representatives visit our facility and offer special discounts to students.

female diesel mechanic lifting engine

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Accreditation

In 1967 when the automotive technology program was started at Northeastern Junior College it was enough for a student to have a love of cars, a passion for engines and the ability to turn a wrench. Most automotive repair involved taking things out and putting things back in. Times have certainly changed. Today’s automotive and diesel technicians have to be computer savvy, be good at math and know electronics pretty well plus understand aerodynamics and they have to know how to turn a wrench, but with far greater precision.  

Being recognized by the ASE Education Foundation for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a huge stamp of approval on any automotive training program. 

Employment outlook

Diesel service technicians and mechanics held about 293,200 jobs in 2021.

Work Schedules: Most diesel technicians work full time. Overtime is common, as many repair shops extend their service hours during evenings and weekends. In addition, some truck and bus shops provide 24-hour maintenance and repair services.

Start Your Training to Become a Diesel Mechanic Today

Take the first steps to your new career working on diesel powered vehicles by scheduling a campus tour, visiting with the faculty or complete your application, there is no cost to apply!

Check out the Applied Technology Campus Expansion

Please complete the Diesel Program Application once you have applied at Northeastern.

Required to start 2nd year

  • Tool Box sufficient to hold tools
  • Hex Key Wrench Set - Standard (.050" - 3/8") (7/16" - 1/2" optional)
  • Hex Key Wrench Set - Metric (2mm - 12mm)
  • Stud-to-Post or Charging/Test Adapter
  • Chisels - Cold 5/8", 3/4"
  • Combination Wrenches - Standard (3/8" - 1") (up to 1 and 1/4" optional) Metric (6mm - 19mm) (up to 24mm optional)
  • Digital Multi-meter - minimum 10 meg. ohms impedance CAT III ( Fluke 87 or 88)
  • Electrical Pliers - Crimper/Stripper
  • Files and Handles - 12" Fine 12" Coarse 12"
  • Half Round Flare Nut Wrench Set - Standard (3/8" - 3/4") Metric (7mm - 19mm)
  • Flashlight ( pocket)
  • Goggles - (per OSHA requirements)
  • Hack Saw
  • Hammers - Ball Peen - 16 oz. and 24 oz. Soft Face 3lb sledge
  • Hearing Protection - (per OSHA requirements)
  • Inspection Mirror
  • Magnetic Pickup Tool
  • Mechanic's Steel Ruler - Machinist Rule
  • Pliers - Adjustable Joint Locking Pliers Needle Nose Side Cutters
  • Slip-joint Punches - Pin 3/16" - 3/8" Starter 3/16" - 3/8"
  • Aligning Punch Set Brass punch Center punch
  • Punch holder
  • Safety Glasses (Side Panels) - (per OSHA requirements)

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 28,500 openings for diesel service technicians and mechanics are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

  • NJC 470613 DIESEL TECHNOLOGY 49-3023 Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
  • NJC 470613 DIESEL TECHNOLOGY 49-3031 Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual wage for diesel service technicians and mechanics was $48,690 in May 2021.

ATC Program Student Learning Outcomes:

  1. Analyze and interpret codes, standards, prints, and schematics.
  2. Demonstrate safe work practices while working with equipment and tools.
  3. Demonstrate the ability to earn industry certifications.
  4. Integrate problem solving skills to perform physical tasks.
Colton Faubion
Student Profile
Colton Faubion

It just sounded like it would be a great fit for the path I chose.

Tyler Laferriere
Student Profile
Tyler Laferriere

When I visited Northeastern and the diesel shop, I fell in love with it.

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