With the price of colleges on the rise, many upcoming high school graduates are looking to trade schools and technical schools to train for jobs that provide a steady source of income. Many adults, affected by the loss of jobs in the faltering economy, have also looked to alternate career paths to increase their job prospects.
Rosedale Technical College offers a variety of programs that can prepare students for several growing careers, one of them being Diesel Technology. Statistics show that Diesel Technology is a growing field with many career options.
Consider the numbers:
- As of 2018, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there are at least 285,300 diesel mechanics and service technicians.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 5 percent increase in job openings by 2020, which adds over 35,000 jobs.
- According to sources with one of our employment partners Caterpillar, over the next five years, they will have the highest concentration of diesel equipment and generators in the Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia tri-state area than anywhere else in the country.
Become An In-Demand Professional
With more freight being constantly shipped across the country, there will be a need for additional diesel-powered trucks, requiring additional diesel mechanics to maintain and repair the increased truck fleet.
Demand for skilled technicians in the freight trucking and automotive repair and maintenance industries will be a major factor in increasing diesel mechanic job growth. In addition to this, retrofitting and modernization will need to be done on older vehicles to comply with environmental regulations, creating even more job opportunities for diesel mechanics.
The Marcellus Shale industry also needs trained diesel mechanics to fix and maintain the heavy trucks and equipment that are used in drilling. Because such a large number of equipment is involved, there is enough work to keep any diesel mechanic busy.
Career Opportunities As a Diesel Technician
The jobs aren’t limited though – in fact attending a trade school or technical school for Diesel Technology offers numerous career opportunities, including:
- Large and commercial vehicle repair and maintenance.
- Farm equipment mechanics and service technicians.
- Marine and railroad engine diesel mechanics.
- Fixed diesel mechanics.
- Small engine diesel mechanic.
- Railroad diesel mechanic.
Not all jobs in the diesel mechanic field require wrenching. Some of our graduates use their technical background in an office setting.
Skills Needed
While mechanical skills are a major quality of becoming a diesel technician, some qualities that are important include:
Customer service skills: In some positions, diesel mechanics will frequently discuss problems and necessary repairs with customers.
Detail-oriented: Diesel technicians must be aware of small details when inspecting or repairing engines and components because mechanical and electronic malfunctions are often due to misalignments and other easy-to-miss causes.
Dexterity: Mechanics need a steady hand and good hand-eye coordination for many tasks, such as disassembling engine parts, connecting or attaching components, and using hand tools.
Organizational Skills: Diesel mechanics must keep workspaces clean and organized to maintain safety and accountability for parts.
Physical Strength: Big trucks mean big parts. Diesel technicians often lift heavy parts and tools when working on equipment, so he or she must be able to maneuver heavy objects.
Troubleshooting Skills: Like many technical trades, diesel technicians use diagnostic equipment on engine systems and components to identify and fix problems in mechanical and electronic systems. They must be familiar with electronic control systems and the appropriate tools needed to fix and maintain them.
Why Choose Rosedale Technical College
Finding a technical school that can teach you the skills to prosper in your chosen career is key. Rosedale Technical College has been training students in the Pittsburgh area for 75 years, offering graduates the training and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
Hands-On Experience
Providing hands-on training from ASE Certified Instructors in the truck and heavy equipment field makes it possible for students to learn every aspect from hydraulics and transmissions to refrigeration systems and engine diagnostics.
Our diesel labs include equipment found in any commercial garage or commercial freight facility. Students in our degree program have the opportunity to receive training for their PA state inspection license, as well as preparation for ASE Certifications, and the opportunity to earn their Class A Commercial Drivers License. Upon graduation, An Associate Degree in Specialized Technology or Diploma will be awarded.
Career Prep
Our Rosedale Tech’s Student Success Team helps connect students to meaningful careers. We work with over 1,800 employers around the region, many of which regularly visit our campus for career fairs, mock interviews, and classroom presentations.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Worried about how you are going to pay for your education? Financial aid* is available to those who qualify. In addition, many of the employers we partner with offer education benefits, such as tuition reimbursement, tool bonuses, continued education, and more. If you are looking for a solid career with a steady income, wait no longer.
Get Started On Your Future
Are you ready to start an education that could prepare you for a fulfilling career? Contact us today to schedule a tour and see if Rosedale Technical College is the right fit for you!
Our Diesel Technology program is 16 months and offered during the day Monday-Friday, 8 am to 2 pm. In August 2021, this will change to Monday-Thursday, 7:30 am to 3: pm.
*Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. Rosedale Tech is a nonprofit Equal Opportunity Educational Institution and Employer, ACCSC Accredited Institution, and ASEEF Certified.