Diesel Equipment Technology
Program Number:
104121
Associate Degree in Applied Science
Program Courses offered at the following Campuses:
About
The associate degree Diesel Equipment Technology program (Top Tech) is designed to meet the needs of today’s diesel industry—which is rapidly changing due to electronically controlled systems, computers and on board diagnostics. Today’s newest concerns are with diesel engine exhaust emissions. Dealerships and fleets need technicians with advanced diagnostic, troubleshooting and critical thinking skills. Top Tech, a Madison College-industry partnership, allows companies to sponsor students as paid interns. The on-the-job training builds technical expertise and helps students learn to use sophisticated equipment to diagnose and correct problems. In addition, the program’s management and communication courses will help graduates qualify for promotions throughout their careers.
Trucking is one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. In Wisconsin, one out of seven people work in the manufacture, distribution, maintenance or commercial use of motor vehicles. Agriculture and construction are also major portions of Wisconsin’s economy and require trained technicians to keep modern equipment up and running. All areas of the diesel industry are experiencing shortages of qualified technicians.
Students learn Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and Association of Diesel Specialist (ADS) standards: to repair engines, transmissions, drivelines and electrical, electronic, hydraulic systems, fuel, brake, air conditioning and transport refrigeration systems; to adjust suspensions and align wheels and to perform maintenance and tune-ups. Students are trained in simulated shop environments and evaluated like actual employees.
The program is a National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF/ASE) master certified medium/heavy truck program, and certified as a “TECH SMART” school by the ADS. The Association of Diesel Specialists provides scholarships and program support. This program also works with the “2001” Diesel Consortium of approximately 40 companies and developed the Top Tech educator/student industry partnership.
Admissions
Requirements for Program Application
The following is required to process your application:
- High School transcript - or
- HSED/GED Test Scores - or
- College transcript showing an Associate's, Bachelor's or higher degree from an institution other than Madison College
Requirements for Program Eligibility for the Current Academic Year
The following are required to be eligible for the program:
No required course pre-requisites. If the COMPASS or ASSET places you into developmental reading, writing or math courses, we recommend that you start taking that coursework the summer prior to your start, if possible.
For program waitlist information, refer to the Admission Information and Next Steps below.
Admission Processing Deadlines:
Fall 2012
Madison College begins collecting applications for the following year's fall semester on September 1, 2011. For this program applications must be received by August 31, 2012, to be considered for the fall semester. All supporting documentation (transcripts, test scores, etc.) must be received by September 15, 2012.
Spring 2013
Madison College begins collecting applications for the following year's spring semester on January 16, 2012. For this program applications must be received by January 15, 2013, to be considered for the spring semester. All supporting documentation (transcripts, test scores, etc.) must be received by February 2, 2013.
Admission information and Next Steps:
Program Outcomes
Program Outcomes:
- Assess situations and formulate repair strategies that assume a proper, timely and cost-effective repair.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude, attentive listening, and the ability to work effectively in teams and incorporate feedback to promote personal relationships.
- Demonstrate the ability to inspect, diagnose, service and repair major systems related to diesel transportation and heavy equipment industry.
- Practice personal work habits through compliance with all company, brand/vehicle, OSHA and environmental policies.
- Project a professional image by acts of timeliness, cleanliness, honesty, and acceptance of responsibility for your actions.
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate with customers, colleagues, and supervisors.
- Demonstrate applications of technical knowledge to other technologies and disciplines.
- Apply critical thinking skills to evaluate and solve problems.
- Exhibit self-management and study skills necessary to succeed in increasingly challenging academic environments.
Employment
Career Potential:
-
Diesel Equipment Technicians:
Use sophisticated equipment to analyze and adjust engine performance and do tests and service to meet emissions standards. -
Electronic Systems Diagnostic Specialists:
Test, analyze, service and repair computerized and electronic systems. -
Engineering Assistants:
Work with engineers and manufacturers to test and adjust prototype engines and equipment. -
Field Service Representatives:
Are experts on specific equipment. Travel to dealerships to solve unique problems. -
Assistant Service Managers:
Assist manager, meet customers and help technicians diagnose problems. -
Fleet Maintenance Managers:
Are responsible for general maintenance, scheduling, inspections, repairs and keeping vehicle records.
With additional education and/or experience, graduates may find employment as:
- Service Writers or Managers
- Shop Foremen
- Team Leaders
- DOT Inspectors
- Factory Service Representatives
- Equipment Sales Specialists
- Research and Development Technicians
Additional Info
Last Modified: January 19, 2012