Diesel and Heavy Equipment emphasis | Pittsburg State University
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Study Diesel and Heavy Equipment

Major in Automotive Technology with an Emphasis in Diesel and Heavy Equipment
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Master the maintenance, repair, and operation of diesel-powered vehicles and heavy equipment.

In our program, analyze and address failures in diesel engines and heavy equipment systems.

Students gain technical skills through lab activities that involve the operation of hydraulic and pneumatic systems in heavy equipment, as well as diagnosing problems in diesel engines.

Hands-on Workshops

Students work in well-equipped labs, gaining practical experience in diesel engine maintenance and heavy equipment system diagnostics.

Technical Training

Apply your learning to real-world situations through team projects, working on the repair and maintenance of heavy equipment and diesel engines.

Expert Faculty

Our professors come from the industry, sharing insights into the latest developments and best practices in the diesel and heavy equipment industry.

What diesel technology will be covered in my training?

This specialized program tailored for students seeking expertise in diesel engines. Dive into three areas of diesel technology including:

  • Agricultural equipment
  • Construction equipment
  • On-highway truck systems

Course topics unique to Diesel and Heavy Equipment emphasis track.

The Diesel and Heavy Equipment emphasis track encompasses a range of courses that cover essential topics, including:

  • Welding Processes and Procedures: Introduction to welding techniques and procedures used in heavy equipment repair.

  • Diesel Engine Fundamentals: In-depth exploration of diesel engine design, operation, and maintenance.

  • Fluid Power: Understanding hydraulic and pneumatic systems used in heavy equipment and diesel engines.

  • Failure Analysis: Techniques for diagnosing and rectifying problems in diesel engines and heavy equipment systems.

  • On Highway Systems: An examination of the systems and components of diesel-powered highway vehicles.

  • Construction Equipment Systems: Focus on the maintenance and repair of construction machinery.

  • Agricultural Equipment and Powertrains: Understanding the operation and maintenance of powertrains in agricultural equipment.

  • Advanced Hydraulic Systems: In-depth study of hydraulic systems used in heavy equipment and vehicles.

Our graduates gain more than just the technical skills needed to gain employment in this fast-changing industry; they gain the leadership skills necessary to succeed at the highest corporate levels.

Career paths of Diesel and Heavy Equipment graduates:

Graduates of the Diesel and Heavy Equipment emphasis track are well-prepared for various careers in the diesel and heavy equipment industry. Potential career paths include:

  • Diesel Mechanic: Specializing in the maintenance and repair of diesel engines in trucks, buses, and heavy equipment.

  • Heavy Equipment Technician: Focusing on the diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of construction and industrial machinery.

  • Agricultural Equipment Technician: Specializing in the maintenance and repair of farming equipment and powertrains.

  • Fleet Manager: Overseeing the operation and maintenance of a fleet of diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.

  • Service Manager: Managing service departments in equipment dealerships and repair facilities.

Nearly 100% of our graduates either found jobs or were accepted into a graduate program according to our latest Employment Data Report. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Standards, the annual median pay for automotive Industrial manufacturing managers is $93,940.

Additional information

Automotive Technology - Diesel & Heavy Equipment Degree Map download

Catalog – see catalog for the School of Automotive and Engineering Technology