What Is a Diesel Mechanic?

The diesel industry continues to evolve year after year. One thing that remains constant is the need for qualified mechanics to keep our vehicles in proper working order. Among the growing industries in the automotive community is diesel technology. Diesel engines tend to be more efficient and longer-lasting than gasoline-powered engines.

To understand the intricate parts of a diesel engine, mechanics need to undergo proper training at a diesel mechanic school such as the one offered at Pennco Tech in Blackwood, NJ. Here, we discuss what a diesel mechanic is, their responsibilities, and how Pennco Tech prepares men and women to work in this growing field.

The Duties of a Diesel Mechanic

A diesel mechanic specializes in diagnosing, repairing, and performing prevention measures on diesel-fueled vehicles and larger machines. Their working environment tends to be a garage or another type of repair shop. They speak with customers to better understand the issue, work hands-on to determine the source of the problem, and develop the safest and most effective method for repairing it. Other duties and responsibilities of a diesel mechanic may include:

• Keeping records of inventory and serviced vehicles
• Running diagnostic tests on diesel engines
• Inspecting vehicle systems
• Test driving repaired vehicles to gauge their performance
• Performing other common vehicle maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake checks, etc.

Required Education and Training

For an individual to successfully become a diesel mechanic, the minimum requirements are a high school diploma or GED, as well as the proper diesel engine repair education and certification from an accredited institution.

The Diesel Technology program offered by Pennco Tech provides students with an in-depth view of the diesel industry. Led by first-class instructors with professional experience, the program teaches students the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful diesel technicians. To fully prepare students, Pennco Tech incorporates a variety of repairs into the program, such as:

• Preventive maintenance on diesel engines and heavy-duty trucks
• Service of the fuel injector
• Transmission, clutch, and driveline service
• MIG and Arc (Stick) welding
• Air/hydraulic brake system service
• Emission system diagnosing and repair
• Truck and trailer lubrication
• Service of heating and AC system
• Electrical and electronic system service
• Diagnostics using computer scanners and electronic measuring devices

Available Career Paths for Diesel Mechanics

Becoming a certified and trained diesel mechanic provides you with a host of avenues and career paths to pursue. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow eight percent from 2020 to 2030. Additionally, about 28,100 openings for diesel service technicians and mechanics are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

With the proper education, diesel mechanics can explore the vast open job market to find a career they are passionate about. Common jobs in the field of diesel mechanics include:

• Diesel technician
• Bus/truck mechanic
• Transportation technician
• Heavy-duty vehicle service technician
• Fleet mechanic
• Equipment service technician

Women in the Workplace

Traditionally, the automobile industry has been a male-dominated trade. We look to change that through our Girl Power at Pennco Tech initiative. This program aims to foster more female students in traditionally male-dominated roles and help them succeed in the workforce. We help connect qualified women with great career opportunities through our extensive career services network. Women who choose to enroll at Pennco Tech will receive the following benefits:

• Gain the necessary skills and education needed to pursue a meaningful career in a traditionally male-dominated field
• Learn a wide range of topics through classroom and hands-on training
• Be given financial aid if eligible
• Receive lifetime career assistance that includes interview preparation, resume building, and more

Enroll in Diesel Mechanic School at Pennco Tech

Both men and women can begin their journey to becoming diesel mechanics by enrolling in the Diesel Technology program at Pennco Tech. Serving students throughout the Tri-State Area and Pennsylvania, our diesel mechanic school provides students with everything they need to pursue a meaningful career in the diesel industry. After graduation, we help students beyond the classroom as our job placement rate speaks for itself. To learn more about our trade career programs and the opportunities we offer, contact us today at Pennco Tech.