Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician | Western Technical College

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

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Technical Diploma

Program Number: 

324121

Credits: 

55.00
Financial Aid Eligible

Typical Start: 

Fall

As a diesel and heavy equipment technician, your role is instrumental in keeping businesses and industries operational by diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, heavy trucks, and heavy equipment. Western's hands-on program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field, covering essential areas such as powertrains, electrical/electronic systems, chassis systems, brakes, and hydraulics of these equipment. Throughout your training, you will stay up-to-date with the latest industry technology and practices.

Our program takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from welding and general studies to provide you with a comprehensive foundation for entering the field. Through applied, general, and specialized training, you will gain the expertise necessary for success. Most students complete the program within 21 months, and upon graduation, you will find excellent career opportunities in a secure and fulfilling industry. Your work will play a crucial role in keeping essential equipment running smoothly and contributing to the efficiency of various businesses and industries.

Classes are held at Western's state-of-the-art Truck and Heavy Equipment Facility, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2719 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Image
Estimated Program Costs

Estimated Program Cost

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

This program will cost about $8,829* based on tuition and basic program fees. There may be additional fees for books, materials, and testing. For more information on tuition costs, visit the Tuition Page.

* Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Graduation Employment Stats

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician 2020-2021 Graduation Employment Stats

Graduates26
Graduates Responding12
Employed in Related Occupation12
Employed in Non-related Occupations0
Seeking Employment0
Continuing Education0
Not in Labor Market0

Salary Data - Related Employment

Part TimeFull Time
Responding012
Average Hours Per Week46
Median Hourly Wage$22.00
Hourly Wage Range$11.72-$26.79
Median Annual Salary$46,796

Respondents in Related Occupations

  • Diesel Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic/Road Technician, Diesel Tech, Diesel Technician, Driver/Mechanic, Mechanic, Shop Mechanic

Career Opportunities

Diesel Technician
Diesel Mechanic
Field Service Technician
Fleet Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Program Outcomes

  • Living responsibly
  • Refining professionalism
  • Cultivating passion
  • Diagnose major systems in diesel and heavy equipment industry
  • Repair major systems in diesel and heavy equipment industry
  • Service major systems in diesel and heavy equipment industry
  • Practice personal and professional work habits
  • Document complaint, cause and correction

Admission Requirements

College Requirements

Application
$30 Application Fee

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

  • Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
  • Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
  • Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

  • Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Accreditation

The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technician program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

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Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Career Pathways

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