Diesel Technology
Inspect, Maintain, and Repair Machinery and Engine Systems of Diesel Vehicles
Pickens Technical College offers a Medium/Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Training Program composed of six individual classes specifically designed to prepare and educate students for entry-level employment as an M/H Diesel Truck Technician. The student will be trained with current M/H duty diesel trucks, will use the latest tools and equipment, and will utilize current computer and online technology to obtain the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level employment in the diesel trucking industry. The program is designed to train the student for entry-level and advanced employment as M/H Truck Technicians. In addition, each individual class is designed to prepare the student for its respective ASE certification test.
Program Flyer Steps for Enrollment Pickens Lookbook See the Classroom
What Our Students Learn
- Heavy-duty starting and charging of engines
- Heavy-duty brake repair
- Lighting and instrumentation
- Body and electrical systems
Career Outlook
- Employment opportunity in this field is 4 times higher than the national average for a job
- Entry-level salaries start at $38,000 and up
- Median salary is $60,000
- 10% of workers earn $78,000 or more
Program Experience
- Enrollment options are available for both high school students and post-secondary students
- 1 year of classes
- Students spend 50% of their time learning concepts in a classroom, and 50% of their time with hands-on practical work
Ray Elser
Instructor, Diesel Technology
303-344-4910 ext. 27721
relser@aurorak12.org
Industry Certifications & Degrees:
- ASE Master Certified Bus Technician
- ASE Certified Heavy Truck Technician
- Cummins Engine Rebuild Certification
- Cummins After-treatment Certification
Accredited Certificate Courses (27 credits)
All credits earned at Pickens technical college are recognized by the Colorado Community College System (CCCS), and are eligible for transfer to other colleges within the state of Colorado.
Focuses on the student identifying and describing the many different types of diesel-powered vehicles. Emphasis is placed on being able to research information in maintenance manuals and parts manuals along with a demonstration of their abilities in properly identifying and select mechanical fasteners for a particular application. Specific coverage of precision fasteners, fuels, and fluids as they relate to the diesel industry.
Covers the theory and operation of diesel engines with emphasis on cylinder heads and valve trains diagnosis and repair. Also introduces the cooling system’s importance with diagnosis and repair. Enables students to diagnose, test, and repair cylinder heads and cooling systems on diesel engines.
Includes the operation, testing, and servicing of heavy-duty vehicle battery, starting, and charging systems. Includes voltage, and voltage drop testing of starting and charging systems, diagnosis, maintenance, load testing, and repair of systems.
Focuses on the various braking systems incorporated in heavy-duty trucks and heavy equipment. Includes a study of hydraulic brake systems and covers the diagnosis and service of the mechanical and electrical components.
Teaches instruction in general service and maintenance procedures for the heavy-duty truck air brake system and its related pneumatic components. Operational checks, performance testing, and verifying system compliance with regulations (FMVSS No. 121) will be discussed.
Provides students with diagnosis and repair of lighting systems found on Medium /Heavy duty trucks and equipment. Emphasis on inspecting and testing of electrical circuits, switches, and interfacing through data bus with on board computers.
Provides a comprehensive study of the theory, operation, diagnosis, and repair of the heavy-duty vehicle body and safety electrical systems and accessories.
Provides students with the opportunity to supplement coursework with practical work experience related to their educational program Students work under the immediate supervision of experienced personnel at the business location and with the direct guidance of the instructor.
