Diesel Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology, Diesel Heavy Truck Technician, Certificate I

Overview

🚗 Diesel Technology
Diesel Heavy Truck Technical
Certificate I – 42 Semester Credit Hours (Completed in Approximately 1.5 Years)

Program Overview
The Diesel Technology Program at Laredo College is designed to provide students with the knowledge and hands-on skills required to inspect, repair, and maintain diesel engines and heavy-duty equipment. The program consists of approximately 42 semester credit hours and can typically be completed in one year and half or three semesters. Upon successful completion, students earn a Diesel Heavy Truck Technician Certificate I and will be well-prepared to enter the workforce as qualified diesel technicians.
Students will gain experience in a wide range of areas, including diesel engine repair, electrical systems, hydraulics, brakes, and preventive maintenance. Training is conducted using industry-standard equipment and diagnostic tools to ensure graduates are job-ready.

Program Mission
The mission of the Diesel Technology Program is to prepare individuals to become skilled, safety-conscious, and job-ready diesel technicians through quality instruction and hands-on training. The program is committed to academic excellence, industry relevance, and student success.

Job Opportunities
Why choose a career in diesel technology?
Diesel technicians are in high demand across multiple industries including transportation, agriculture, construction, and logistics. Graduates can work for trucking companies, dealerships, fleet maintenance shops, equipment rental services, or even start their own repair business. With increasing reliance on diesel-powered equipment, the demand for trained technicians continues to grow nationwide.

Salary/Benefits
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), diesel technicians can earn an average annual salary of $28,000 to $70,000, with higher earnings potential based on experience, certifications, and specialization. Technicians who work in specialized fields or manage fleets may earn significantly more. Many employers offer competitive benefits, overtime pay, tool allowances, and opportunities for advancement.

Program Costs
The estimated cost for the Diesel Technology Program, including tuition and fees, is approximately $8,000, not including textbooks, tools, and additional program-specific supplies. Students are encouraged to consult the Laredo College catalog for detailed cost breakdowns and supply lists. Financial aid is available for qualifying students. Please contact the Financial Aid Center at either campus for assistance.

Accreditation and Licensure


The program is accredited by the Accreditation ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) and approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board).

ASE Education Foundation
Phone: 703-669-6650
Fax: 703-669-6125
Email: info@ASEeducationFoundation.org
Website: www.ASEeducationFoundation.org

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
1801 N. Congress Ave. Suite 12.200 Austin, Texas 78701
PO Box 12788, Austin, TX 78711-2788
Main: 512-427-6101 || Fax: 512-427-6127
Student Loans: 800-242-3062
https://www.texas.gov/

Statistical Data (Licensure/Exam/Retention Rates)

Diesel Heavy Truck Technician
Certificate I

Student Learning Outcomes (2024 Exit Survey Results):

• 97.73% of students felt prepared in planning and improving patient-centered care by collaborating and communicating with patients, their families, and the interdisciplinary health care team to implement evidenced based practices.
• 97.73% of students felt prepared in evaluating and creating opportunities for patient and family teachings that focus on the needs and preference of the individual and their family to include health promotion, maintenance, and restoration.
• 100% of students felt prepared to simulate and justify accountability nursing care while functioning within the legal/ethical scope of practice consistent with the state and national regulations.
• "100% of students felt prepared to evaluate and perform safe, effective diesel maintenance and repairs by applying diagnostic procedures, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills."
• 97.72% of students felt prepared to evaluate and improve patient outcomes and responses to therapeutic interventions to include pharmacological principles of safety.
• 100% of students felt prepared to infer and prioritize the physiological, psychosocial, and developmental needs and preferences of culturally, ethically, and socially diverse patients and their families.
• "100% of students felt prepared to identify, document, and report actual and potential safety hazards in diesel systems and shop environments by adhering to industry-standard safety protocols and best practices."

Marketable Skills
In addition to acquiring the knowledge and skills required to become an Autobody Technician, students also develop marketable skills that are valued by employers. These skills include:

• Active Listening
• Monitoring
• Speaking
• Reading Comprehension
• Critical Thinking and Clinical Judgement

Information

⚠️ Important Reminders

• Use your legal name (no nicknames) when applying.
• A Palomino ID# and LC student email is required for the application.
• Proof of the application fee is mandatory.
• Applications without payment proof will be canceled and cannot be resubmitted.
• A status of "Application Intake" does not mean your application is complete—make sure to fully submit it.
• A grade of “D” is not considered passing for any course.
• If any prerequisite courses were completed at another institution, official transcripts must be submitted to the LC Admissions Office.
• No GPA requirements or entrance exams (such as ATI TEAS) are needed for the Diesel Program.

Plan of Study

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Automotive Service Technician Pathway (Pending)