Diesel Technology | Williston State College

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Diesel Technology

Diesel Technology

Williston State College offers three different degree types in the Diesel Technology Program.
Minimum required credits: 62
AAS Student Education Plan (SEP)

Program Description

The Diesel Technology program at Williston State College offers comprehensive training to prepare you for a dynamic career in the diesel industry. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, this program equips you with the skills needed to excel in various roles within the field.

Criteria for Admission
Program applications will be provided by WSC Admissions to students applying to the Diesel Technology program. Program instructors will review the qualifications of each applicant. Each applicant will be notified about his or her acceptance into the program. A total of 16 students will be admitted with alternates selected. Accepted students enroll in program courses for the following fall. Students not selected are given priority to enroll in program courses the next academic year, and are encouraged to take General Education courses in the meantime. These criteria for admission apply to the Transportation AAS, PC, & COCs.
 
 
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What You'll Learn
  • Advanced Diagnostic Techniques: Develop proficiency in diagnosing and repairing complex diesel engines and related systems, including brakes, suspension, electrical, drive trains, heating, air conditioning, fuel, and hydraulic systems.

  • Technical Proficiency: Gain hands-on experience in rebuilding, testing, and troubleshooting diesel components, ensuring you can effectively address equipment malfunctions.

  • Communication and Customer Relations: Learn to interpret technical manuals accurately and enhance your ability to communicate effectively with customers, supervisors, and the general public.

  • Safety and Compliance: Understand and apply safety laws, shop safety protocols, and hazardous material regulations to maintain a secure working environment.

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Course Requirements

Course Requirements

To earn the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Diesel Technology, you must complete a minimum of 62 credits, encompassing both general education and program-specific courses. The curriculum is designed to provide a balanced education, combining technical training with essential academic skills.

Program-Specific Courses:

  • DTEC 105 | Maintenance Procedures | 2 credits
  • DTEC 105L | Maintenance Procedures Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 106 | Introduction to Engines | 2 credits
  • DTEC 106L | Introduction to Engines Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 107 | Basic Electrical Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 107L | Basic Electrical Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 126 | Introduction to Fuel/Ignition Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 126L | Introduction to Fuel/Ignition Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 127 | Hydraulics/Pneumatic Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 127L | Hydraulics/Pneumatic Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 136 | Brakes Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 136L | Brakes Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 137 | Suspension & Steering Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 137L | Suspension & Steering Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 216 | Advanced Electronic/Fuel Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 216L | Advanced Electronic/Fuel Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 217 | Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Cooling Systems | 2 credits
  • DTEC 217L | Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Cooling Systems Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 220 | Drive Train Systems | 3 credits
  • DTEC 220L | Drive Train Systems Lab | 3 credits
  • DTEC 266 | Shop Practices/Welding | 2 credits
  • DTEC 266L | Shop Practices/Welding Lab | 2 credits
  • DTEC 267 | Diesel Engine Diagnosis/Repair | 3 credits
  • DTEC 267L | Diesel Engine Diagnosis/Repair Lab | 3 credits

Note: In addition to these program-specific courses, students must fulfill general education requirements as outlined in the college catalog.





View course descriptions.
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Possible Career Paths & Salary Ranges

Graduates of the Diesel Technology program are well-prepared for various positions within the transportation and heavy equipment industries. Potential career paths include:

  1. Diesel Technician

    • Role: Diagnose, repair, and maintain diesel engines and related systems in trucks, heavy equipment, and machinery.
    • Average Salary: $50,000 per year
  2. Shop Foreman

    • Role: Oversee daily operations of a repair shop, manage technicians, and ensure quality control.
    • Average Salary: $60,000 per year
  3. Service Manager

    • Role: Manage service departments, coordinate repairs, and liaise with customers to ensure satisfaction.
    • Average Salary: $65,000 per year
  4. Company Service Representative

    • Role: Provide technical support and service information to clients, ensuring proper maintenance and operation of equipment.
    • Average Salary: $55,000 per year
  5. Private Shop Owner

    • Role: Operate and manage a privately owned repair shop, overseeing all business and technical operations.
    • Average Salary: Varies widely based on business success

Opportunities for Advancement

With experience and additional certifications, such as those from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), graduates can advance to higher-level positions, including fleet manager or technical trainer, which offer increased responsibilities and higher earning potential.

Note: Salary figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, and industry demand.

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Estimated Cost of Attendance
Estimated Cost of Attendance On Campus Estimated Cost of Attendance Off Campus Off Campus with Parent
$22,469 $26,081 $17,463

Program Certificate (PC)

OPTION: HEAVY DUTY VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

Minimum required credits for PC: 30
PC Student Education Plan (SEP)

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the program-specific requirements, please see the general graduation requirements for CTE programs.

DTEC 105 | Maintenance Procedures | 4 credits
DTEC 106 | Introduction to Engines | 4 credits
DTEC 107 | Basic Electrical Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 126 | Intro/Fuel/Ignition Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 127 | Hydraulics/Pneumatic Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 136 | Brake Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 137 | Suspension & Steering Systems | 4 credits
 
View course descriptions.


 
 

Certificate of Completion (COC)

OPTION: BASIC HEAVY DUTY VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
Required program credits for COC: 15 or less
Basic Heavy Duty Vehicle Maintenance COC Student Education Plan (SEP)

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the program-specific requirements, please see the general graduation requirements for CTE programs.

DTEC 105 | Maintenance Procedures | 4 credits
DTEC 106 | Introduction to Diesel Engines | 4 credits
DTEC 107 | Basic Electrical Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 136 | Brake Systems | 4 credits

View course descriptions.
OPTION: HEAVY DUTY VEHICLE SYSTEMS
Required program credits for COC: 15 or less
Heavy Duty Vehicle Systems COC Student Education Plan (SEP)

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the program-specific requirements, please see the general graduation requirements for CTE programs.

DTEC 126 | Intro/Fuel/Ignition Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 127 | Hydraulics/Pneumatics Systems | 4 credits
DTEC 137 | Suspension & Steering Systems | 4 credits

View course descriptions.
 


Faculty

Hunter

Hunter Erickson

Director of Diesel Technology
Business and Trades Technology Department
1410 University Avenue
Crighton Building
701.774.4564
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