Trucks and heavy equipment are used in nearly every industry in the United States. This type of equipment operates on diesel fuel and requires technicians who are experienced in:
- Hydraulics
- Transmissions
- Refrigeration Systems
- Engine Diagnostics
- And Other Skills
Industries in and around the western Pennsylvania area that require commercial vehicle equipment like trucks and busses include energy, freight, construction, agriculture, industrial, aerospace, state, local, and federal government, and the military. Diesel equipment helps to keep our country running, and diesel technicians help to keep our vehicles running.
What Skills Should a Diesel Mechanic Have?
Diesel mechanics must be able to show experience in several areas:
- Precision and dexterity. Trucks and heavy equipment require proper handling with heavy machinery tools and computerized systems that help technicians and mechanics pinpoint and repair diagnostic issues.
- Current with industry standards and diesel technology. New technologies in diesel machines are always being developed, like DPF (diesel particulate filter) and EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) that help make engines run cleaner and control a machine’s carbon footprint. Additionally, scan tools and sensors are commonly being used to quickly diagnose performance issues. A technician’s eagerness to stay current and not just ‘do it the old way’ shows that he’s an enthusiastic worker.
- Expertise with different vehicles. A technician should know to maintain and fix 35,000 lb trucks and semis, as well as all understand all emission standards on heavy equipment.
- Multi-tasking skills. Technicians should also be able to operate forklifts, backhoes and truck lifts as a part of their skillset.
The students at Rosedale Tech in Pittsburgh have every advantage as they learn how to become experienced diesel technicians. They are trained for a PA state inspection license, receive preparation for ASE Certifications, and even can earn their Class A Commercial Drivers License. With a state-of-the-art diesel lab that has brand-new training equipment, we ensure that our students can begin working in any industry as soon as they graduate.