Diesel
engines are the work horses of today. Diesel technicians
are responsible for the maintenance and repair of
engines widely used in the transportation industry to
power locomotives, trucks, buses, and automobiles.
Diesel engines are also commonly used in agriculture,
the oil patch, logging, mining and construction
industries. This 1050-hour program includes diagnosis
and repair of diesel engine systems, suspension and
steering systems, brake systems, electrical and
electronic systems, drive train systems, heating and air
conditioning systems, and preventive maintenance
inspection.
Earnings & Advancements
Experience
is the major factor affecting earnings. Beginning
apprentices usually earn from fifty to seventy-five
percent of the rate of skilled workers and receive
increases about every six months until they complete
their apprenticeship and reach the rate of skilled
mechanics. Wages vary within the different industries.
Wages are highest in the West and North Central Regions
and lowest in the South.
Oklahoma
Employment & Outlook
In
Oklahoma, 90 job openings are projected annually for
diesel mechanics until the year 2006. These job
openings are caused by growth of the industry,
employees leaving the occupation, promotions,
retirements, etc. In 1996, diesel mechanics held
approximately 3200 jobs in Oklahoma. They are
projected to hold approximately 3,390 by the year
2006.
Bus and truck mechanics and
diesel engine specialists
270,100
308,900
+ 14 %
10,830
Oklahoma
Employment
Percent
Change
Job Openings
2002
2012
Bus and truck mechanics and
diesel engine specialists
3,170
3,590
+ 13 %
120
Programs
of Study
Intro to Diesel & Shop
Safety
Intro to
Elec. and Elec. Circuits & Indicators
Tools & Equipment
Batteries
Fuel Systems
& Components
Drive Lines,
Differential, Final Drive, & Special Drive
Pumps
Bearing &
Seals
Unit
Injectors
Starters &
Ignitions and Circuits
Fasteners
Generators &
Alternators
Engine
Operations
Lubrication
System
Coolants
Intro to
Hydraulics & Hydraulic Pumps
Govenors
Valves &
Cylinders
Clutches &
Flywheels
Air
Conditioning
Earnings
& Advancements
Experience is the
major factor affecting earnings. Beginning apprentices
usually
earn from fifty to seventy-five percent of the rate of
skilled workers and receive increases about every six
months until they complete their apprenticeship and
reach the rate of skilled mechanics. Wages vary within
the different industries. Wages are highest in the West
and North Central Regions and lowest in the South.
