Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

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Technical Diploma

Program Number:

324121

Credits:

55.00

Financial Aid Eligible

Typical Start:

Fall

As a diesel and heavy equipment technician, your role is instrumental in keeping businesses and industries operational by diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, heavy trucks, and heavy equipment. Western's hands-on program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field, covering essential areas such as powertrains, electrical/electronic systems, chassis systems, brakes, and hydraulics of these equipment. Throughout your training, you will stay up-to-date with the latest industry technology and practices.

Our program takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from welding and general studies to provide you with a comprehensive foundation for entering the field. Through applied, general, and specialized training, you will gain the expertise necessary for success. Most students complete the program within 21 months, and upon graduation, you will find excellent career opportunities in a secure and fulfilling industry. Your work will play a crucial role in keeping essential equipment running smoothly and contributing to the efficiency of various businesses and industries.

Classes are held at Western's state-of-the-art Truck and Heavy Equipment Facility, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2719 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

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Estimated Program Costs

Graduation Employment Stats

	Part Time	Full Time
Responding	0	6
Average Hours Per Week		52
Average Hourly Wage		$33.20
Hourly Wage Range		$24.00-$60.00
Average Annual Salary		$55,000

Career Opportunities

Diesel Technician

Diesel Mechanic

Field Service Technician

Fleet Mechanic

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Program Outcomes

Living responsibly
Refining professionalism
Cultivating passion

Diagnose, repair and service brake systems
Diagnose, repair and service steering & suspension systems
Diagnose, repair and service electrical/electronic systems
Diagnose, repair and service HVAC systems
Diagnose, repair and service drive train systems
Diagnose, repair and service hydraulic systems
Diagnose, repair and service diesel engines

Admission Requirements

College Requirements

Application

$30 Application Fee

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Accreditation

The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technician program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.