Program Objective:

The objective of the Diesel Systems Technician program is to provide quality educational training designed to meet the current and future needs of the bus, truck and diesel systems industry. To accomplish this, the following guidelines are established; assist student to choose, prepare for, enter, and be gainfully employed in the bus, truck and diesel repair field; offer a program which emphasizes sound fundamentals while responding to the needs of this particular industry; provide courses to meet current and specific needs of student and this industry.

Occupational Outlook

O*NET Program Detail

Curriculum Framework

Program Outlook:

The Diesel Systems Technician program provides students with the technical knowledge and skills for employment as Truck, Bus, and Diesel Mechanics in the Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Repair Industry. Instruction includes a combination of classroom theory and practical experience. The program also offers supplemental training for persons previously or currently employed in Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Repair occupations. This program is certified by the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF). Students are eligible to join SkillsUSA.

Program Content:

The content includes but is not limited to maintaining and   repairing diesel engines and electrical systems; reconditioning diesel fuel injection systems; overhauling diesel engines;   performing diesel engine preventive maintenance, employability skills and safety practices.

Length of Program:

The average length of this program is 1800 hours (approximately 18 months) for adult attending full-time. Actual time is dependent upon enrollment status (full- time/part-time) and the length of time the student requires to achieve competencies. This program contains several occupational completion points designed to prepare students for various entry level jobs within this  occupational area.

Admission Requirements:

• Students must be at least 16 years old and not attending high school
• Application Interview by a guidance counselor
• Fees for supplies and textbooks are required.

Entrance Dates:

This program operates on an open-entry, open-exit basis. Students may enter the program anytime during the school year.  Entrance is dependent upon space availability. Call (305) 557-1100 for more information.

Career Opportunities:

Bus, Truck and Diesel Engine Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic Helper, Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Fleet       Maintenance  Technician, Industrial Truck Mechanic, Service Writer, Service Manager.

Graduation Requirements:

• Completion of all Occupational Completion Points (OCP’s)
• Satisfy Basic Skills Requirements
  Mathematics 11       Language 10       Reading 10
• No financial obligations
• Students must complete the Clearance packet to receive program certificate.

Program Cost:

• In-state residents—$2.56 per hour (Subject to change)
• Out of state resident—$10.25 per hour (Subject to change)
• $20.00 application fee
• Material fee—Varies by program
• Identification Card fee—$5.00 per trimester
• Students must purchase books/kits and/or uniforms, if  applicable

Program Hours:

Monday—Friday 8:00 am—1:40 pm
Monday—Friday 5:30 pm—10:30 pm

Approximately Total Cost:

$5,240.00

Employment Requirements:

• Employers prefer that diesel service technicians and  mechanics complete a program at a postsecondary institution.
• Industry certification, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is usually required once the person is employed.
• EPA licensure for technicians working with refrigerants.

Salary:

The average wage for this career in Florida is $24.00 hourly or $49,920 annually.

Job Outlook:

Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030.