Diesel Systems Technology: AAS (CTE)

Associate of Applied Science CTE

School of Technical and Professional Specialties

Program Overview

This AAS in Diesel Systems Technology includes the theory and practice necessary to build a student's technical repair proficiency in all industry recognized subtopics. This Automobile Service Excellence-Education Foundation (ASE-EF) Accredited program offers our students technician training encompassing the study and application of heavy-duty systems theory, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair procedures. Where possible, students complete "live work" to gain practical experience and to demonstrate proficiency to industry standards.

Students receive training at the ASE-EF Master Heavy Duty Service Technician (MAST) level in four ASE Heavy Duty disciplines: T1 Engine Repair; T5 Suspension & Steering; T4 Brakes; T7 Heating & Air Conditioning and at the ASE-EF Maintenance and Medium to Heavy Duty Repair (MLR) level in four additional areas: T3 Fluid gear drives and drivetrains; T6 Electrical/Electronic Systems; T2 Diesel engines. Technicians who earn ASE certification in each of these eight areas, become ASE Certified Master Technicians. In addition, students are taught industry soft skills by assessing vehicle system damage, completing invoices, parts requisitions, and post repair inspections as part of the "live work" practicum. Ethics, professionalism, safety, and environmental impact are stressed in all areas of training.

Career Opportunities

This ASE-Education Foundation Accredited program offers students a wide range of career opportunities and career paths in an established and evolving Heavy Duty repair industry. Job opportunities are available in, but not limited to: fleet maintenance and repair; mobile technician; independent and chain repair shops; manufacturer dealership shops; parts and supply distributors; parts remanufacturing shops; and a host of specialty shops.

What You Will Learn

  • Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level heavy-duty engine repair skills in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level heavy-duty fluid drive maintenance skills in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level heavy-duty drivetrain and axle maintenance skills in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level heavy-duty suspension and steering maintenance skills in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level maintenance procedures related to heavy-duty air brake systems in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in entry-level maintenance procedures related to heavy-duty electrical systems in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate entry-level proficiency in maintaining heavy-duty heating and air conditioning systems in accordance with ASE-EF standards.
  • Demonstrate entry-level proficiency in heavy-duty engine performance maintenance procedures in accordance with ASE-EF standards.

Estimated Cost

  • Supplies: $120
  • Other (Tools): $3600

Note: Fees vary based upon specific registration and are subject to changes.

Career Outlook

Some careers shown require further education beyond this program.

Additional Information

Program Entry Requirements

Students are required to earn the SLCC Tech Diesel Systems Technician Certificate of Proficiency (equivalent to 26 credit hours) as a pre-requisite to this program. A prospective diesel technician should be in good physical condition and have above-average mechanical ability and eye-hand coordination.

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