Diesel Power Technology

Program Description

The Diesel Power Technology (DSL) program is designed to prepare students for employment in an exciting and growing field. Diagnosis and repair of heavy trucks, industrial and agricultural machinery, transit, marine, and generator power sets are but a few of the career pathways graduates can take upon concluding the program. This efficient energy source is widely used, and provides jobs for those who enjoy working on heavy-duty equipment and the challenges of troubleshooting and diagnosing the ever-increasing use of electronic controls in the diesel industry.

Since many of today’s systems are electronically controlled, the demand for trained technicians is greater than ever. Employers want employees who can understand a system and troubleshoot a problem logically. The Diesel Power Technology program provides training to fill that critical void.

The six-quarter Diesel Power Technology program combines classroom theory with hands-on experience in a well-equipped diesel shop, where students have the opportunity to work on modern diesel engines as well as a variety of drive train components. Electronic diagnostics are emphasized throughout the course, not only with engines but also components such as transmissions and ABS brakes. A modern computer lab will also help prepare students to retrieve repair information electronically, a skill which is becoming mandatory in today’s workforce.

Students will be required to provide their own basic set of hand tools during their first quarter of the program and keep them at the diesel shop for the duration of their training.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Diesel Power Technology program will be able to:

Demonstrate the skills and knowledge required for successful entry-level employment in the diesel power industry.
Understand and apply safe working practices in the lab/shop environment including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials typically found in a shop environment.
Apply fundamentals of diesel service training, including the basics of diagnostics and repair, pre-delivery inspection and warranty repair procedures.
Demonstrate the skills needed to troubleshoot and repair the following mechanical systems: electronics, hydraulics, power train, engines, brakes, power transmission, pneumatics, and chassis systems.
Demonstrate the ability to accurately document work performed.
Perform repair procedures using proper hand and power tools in a safe manner.
Operate precision diagnostic and repair equipment.
Have the ability to access service and parts information via all industry formats including print, CD-ROM and the Internet.
Understand and practice good communication and public relations skills with customers and colleagues.
Demonstrate critical thinking, teamwork, communication, intercultural appreciation, and technical and information literacy skills.

Entry into the Program

Please apply at Enrollment Services. Students may enter the Diesel Power Technology program at the beginning of Fall quarter only. For more information, contact the Department Chair, Enrollment Services, or visit the diesel shop.

Work-Based Learning

Students will integrate classroom learning with work-based learning experience in Cooperative Education (DSL 199 ) at a supervised work site. Department Chair approval is required. Credits and grades are based on job-hours worked, work performance and completion of the learning objectives specified in the learning contract. Concurrent enrollment in a Cooperative Education Seminar or equivalent is required.

Associate in Applied Science Degree

The Associate in Applied Science degree (AAS) is awarded upon completion of a minimum of 90 credits of specified technical and related education coursework above 100-level with both an overall 2.0 grade point average and a 2.0 grade point average in the technical major.

Individual Technical Certificate

An Individual Technical Certificate may be developed in conjunction with other programs to meet marketable objectives and goals with Department Chair approval.

Programs

Diesel Power Technology, AAS

Courses

Diesel Power Technology