While the demand for regular mechanics is somewhat saturated, there are sectors where there is still lots of demand for highly trained mechanics. Certified diesel mechanics are in great demand at the moment and since the field is still neglected by some students who were considering a profession as a mechanic, there isn’t that much supply of new talent either. This makes diesel mechanics a perfect field for anyone looking for a position. In this article, we’re going to give you a few pointers on how to become a certified diesel mechanic.
Education Credentials
The vast majority of those working as diesel mechanics have to follow a specific diesel mechanics course. While many courses are offered through community colleges, vocational schools or the military, many of them are dispensed by technical institutes. If you’re looking for diesel mechanic schools Florida, you’ll notice that most of them are technical institutes like Lincoln Tech for instance. But if you’d rather go for the college experience, some colleges offer the course as well, they just might not be as specialized and not have the same quality or level of equipment, facilities or teaching body.
Most diesel mechanic programs last between six months and two years and you will be awarded either an associate’s degree, diploma, or certificate once your course is completed. The course usually involves theoretical and hands-on teaching on everything from the transmission, diesel engine theory, cooling systems, torque conversion and more.
On the Job Training
You also have the chance of earning your credentials through on the job training. This pretty much works as an apprenticeship where you will be taught in a professional environment. Many employers offer such programs and candidates usually start with basic theory and small repairs. After going through basic maintenance techniques, students usually move on to more complicated repairs.
Depending on the type of engines the particular company deals with, the course can last for up to four years, after which you will be awarded your journeyman diesel mechanic title.
Certification
Please note that you don’t need to be certified to work as a diesel mechanic. However, you’ll have a better chance if you do get certified by either the NIASE or the ASE since many employers will be looking for it. To get certified, you need to have at least two years of experience as a mechanic and pass their evaluation. In addition to general diesel mechanic certification, the ASE offers certification in related specializations such as preventative maintenance, drive trains, and electronic systems as well.
Conclusion
The future is bright for diesel mechanics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow by 12% by 2014 to 2024, which is higher than the national average and the average salary is $45,170 per year, which is on par with regular mechanics. If you were thinking of a career as a diesel mechanic, now is the time as the demand for specialized mechanics is at an all-time high and prospects are looking as bright as ever.
