Do you love getting your hands dirty and working on large equipment? Attending diesel mechanic school might be your next career move. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology offers a truck and diesel service certificate program and an associate degree in automotive and diesel technology program in Jamaica, New York, that will help get your career off to the right start. Here, we talk about how to become a diesel technician and the different programs students can enroll in.

What Does It Take to Be a Diesel Mechanic?

A diesel mechanic repairs, inspects, and overhauls any vehicle with a diesel engine, like a bus or big rig. To become a successful diesel tech, a person needs to have the following skills:

• Technical ability: The knowledge and ability to complete daily repair and maintenance tasks.
• Attention to detail: Understanding how to find and diagnose problems, even paying attention to the smallest details, to accurately fix an issue.
• Communication: Communicating clearly and effectively with other diesel technicians and customers.
• Problem-solving: Being able to troubleshoot and identify problems, then provide solutions for a fix.
• Physical stamina: Sometimes, a diesel tech will work with larger-than-normal tools, so having physical stamina is important. Diesel techs may also be on their feet for a long time while they work.

If these sound like skills you have, a diesel technology career might be in your future.

How Do I Find a Diesel Mechanic School?

If you are looking for the right diesel mechanic school, there are some questions you should ask, including:

What programs does the school offer?

At NYADI, a certificate and associate degree are offered in diesel technology. Program details are as follows:

Automotive and Diesel Technology Associate Degree Program

The Automotive and Diesel Technology Associate Degree program takes 20 classes (60 credits) and provides classroom and hands-on training. The program can be completed in as little as 16 months as a full-time student or 25 months as a part-time student.

Truck and Diesel Service Technology Certificate Program

The Truck and Diesel Service Technology Certificate program takes 15 classes (45 credits) and uses classroom theory and hands-on training. The certificate can be completed in as little as 12 months if you are a full-time student or 18 months as a part-time student.

What topics are covered in NYADI’s diesel technology programs?

Topics covered in the diesel technology programs include:

• Diesel engines
• Heavy-duty chassis
• Steering systems
• Suspension systems
• Brakes
• Electrical systems
• Electronic systems

After the program, students will be ready to test, diagnose, and repair anything with a diesel engine.

What makes NYADI’s program stand out?

The diesel technology programs at NYADI are different from others because:

• We offer continuous updates to the Automotive and Diesel Technology Associate Degree and Certificate program based on industry trends.
• Graduates are qualified to work on the latest equipment.
• Students learn from experienced ASE-certified instructors.
• There is an excellent faculty-to-student ratio, which enables instructors to provide a more efficient learning experience.
• The program prepares students to earn ASE Certification by teaching them the five areas of ASE Education Foundation Automotive Certification and seven areas of ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Certification.

Is the program accredited?

You’ll want to make sure the program you choose is accredited. At NYADI, we are accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

Is financial aid available?

At NYADI, we want to help jump-start your career. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Our financial aid counselors will assist students in finding funding that can range from loans to grants to scholarships and more.

Do I need to have a GED to enroll?

NYADI is an Ability to Benefit (ATB) technical college, which means students can enroll in career training and adult education programs simultaneously at no extra cost. Students benefit from the ATB program by:

• Having concurrent enrollment in our High School Equivalent course and a career certificate program
• Accessing academic counseling sessions
• Attending structured courses that allow students to advance through the automotive hierarchy
• Having the option to participate in our industry certificate program

Are there job placement services?

NYADI offers job placement and career services to our students and alumni at our Jamaica, New York, campus. The services include:

• Resume and cover letter help
• Job interview practice
• Career development workshops
• Employment Skill Enhancement Program
• Letters of recommendation
• Networking opportunities

Choose a Diesel Mechanic School That Is Right for You

Students interested in diesel mechanic school must ask the right questions when considering which school is right for them. At NYADI The College of Transportation Technology in Jamaica, New York, our program provides hands-on training from ASE-certified instructors. If you’re interested in learning more, contact an admissions representative today.