Diesel Technology

  • Diesel student inspects a tractor engine
  • Diesel student shines a light into a cylinder
  • Diesel student pulls head bolts from an engine
  • Diesel student and instructor diagnose an electrical problem

Downtime is expensive.

When a piece of heavy equipment, such as a combine, truck or locomotive goes down, it’s costing somebody a lot of money.

That’s why Diesel technicians are in such high demand.

Through a balanced combination of classroom sessions and hands-on projects, students  in Salina Tech’s Diesel Technology Program will learn how to repair and maintain a wide range of agricultural, construction, and over the road trucking equipment, including engines, transmissions, electrical systems and hydraulics.

After completion of Salina Tech’s Diesel Technology Program, graduates will have the opportunity to pursue careers in a wide range of fields including construction, agriculture, railway and trucking repair.

This is an ASE certified NATEF program.

Program Length Program Cost Degree Earned Expected Salary
Two Years $13,239 Associate Degree $42,000 – $48,000

YOU WILL LEARN

  • Basic Engine.

  • Basic Power Trains and Cab Air Conditioning.

  • Brakes – Hydraulic and Air.

  • Electrical Systems.

  • Torque Convertors and Power Shift Transmissions.

  • Hydraulics, Hydrostatic Drive, Steering, and Suspension Systems.

  • Diesel Fuel Injection Systems.

  • Major Diesel Engine Overhaul, Dyno Testing, and Tune-up.

  • Develop communication, critical thinking, and technical skills needed to obtain employment.

  • Develop human relation skills and professional behavior for the workplace including appropriate business attire, attendance, punctuality, telephone and business protocol, and professionalism.

  • Develop an understanding of the importance of work related skills such as: working independently, teamwork, following directions, time management, problem solving and critical thinking.

CAREERS

  • Diesel Technician

  • Service Representative

  • Sales & Parts Representative

  • Service Manager

  • Electrical & Instrumentation Technician

  • Store Manager

INFORMATION

Note: Program schedule does not include general education courses required by program.

FACULTY

Mac Loucks

Mac Loucks earned his Associate of Applied Science degree in Diesel Mechanics from Dodge City Community College and his Bachelor of Science in Technology Leadership from Fort Hays State University. He is also an A.S.E. Certified Master Medium/Heavy Truck Technician.
Mr. Loucks has experience with full diagnostic and repair of diesel engines, drivetrains, electrical and HVAC systems, brakes, and ABS systems including Wabco, Bendix, and lane departure. He has also completed multiple Kenworth trainings. Prior to joining the Diesel Technology program in 2013 he worked at Roberts Truck Center and Diamond International.

mac.loucks@salinatech.edu
785-309-3161

Mike Parker

Mike Parker earned his Associate of Applied Science degree in Diesel Technology from Salina Tech. He is also an A.S.E. Certified Medium/Heavy Truck Technician and is IMACA certified in A/C. He has 13 years of Kenworth Professional Service Technician training and Farmland Industry Management training

Mr. Parker stated he got is start in the field by “literally working in the yard under the shade tree, teaching myself,” and he worked at local Freightliner and Kenworth dealers as well as independent shops prior to joining the Diesel Technology program in 2013.

Mr. Parker returned to the industry as a shop manager in 2014 but returned to Salina Tech in 2016 saying “Teaching at Salina Tech was the hardest job I ever left. Teaching doesn’t pay as much, but it’s something I really want to do.”

mike.parker@salinatech.edu
785-309-3131

CONTACT

Contact the DST Enrollment Specialist with any questions or information regarding admissions requirements.

Melissa Farmer
785-309-3118
melissa.farmer@salinatech.edu