Diesel Tech Student

Diesel Technology

Career/Technical Certificate Continuing Education

Want to take care of the big trucks or power generators? Learn how to repair and maintain diesel engines, especially those in over-the-road, heavy-duty diesel trucks. Our diesel technology program gives you industry-level training so you can put your career in gear.

Power Your Future in Diesel Technology

Why choose the Diesel Technology program at San Jac.
diesel tech

Train with Industry-Level Equipment and Technology

Learn how to test, repair, and maintain diesel engines using real industry tools and equipment. Train in engine systems, electrical systems, HVAC, brakes, hydraulics, and more.
diesel tech

Prepare for High-Demand Careers

Diesel technicians are needed in transportation, construction, oil and gas, and public transit. Many students are recruited by companies before graduation.
diesel tech

Choose the Path That Fits Your Goals

Start with a certificate and expand to an Associate of Applied Science degree on your schedule. Our credentials allow you to easily apply your credits from certificates to your AAS if you choose to pursue it.
diesel tech

Build Hands-On Skills Every Day

Work on heavy-duty trucks, diesel engines, cranes, forklifts, and other equipment. Gain real experience solving problems and working as part of a team.

Careers

Bus & Truck Mechanics & Diesel Engine Specialists
 $59,972

 Opportunities

Many students are recruited by companies and organizations such as:

  • Cummins
  • Stewart & Stevenson
  • City of Houston
  • Penske Corporation
  • Houston area truck dealers

 Locations

Salary Source: Texas Wages

DEGREES & CERTIFICATES

Diesel, Continuing Education Courses

Continuing Education
Some of the biggest transporters of goods and services run on diesel, and just like regular engines, need mechanics to keep them on the road. Get your head start in the diesel industry with our continuing education courses in Diesel Engine I & II, Preventative Maintenance, and Electronic Control. Develop new skills to help keep our big rigs running right. 
Length Varies
The Continuing Education Division at San Jac offers you a variety of noncredit courses for workforce training and lifelong learning.

Heavy Diesel Equipment/Crane Technician, AAS

Career/Technical
The Heavy Diesel Equipment/Crane Technology AAS is perfect for those who want a stable career along with a chance to problem solve and perform as part of a team. This high demand field may be especially satisfying and provide upward mobility.
Length 2 Years
If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 60 credits for this program in four terms.

Heavy Diesel Equipment/Crane Technician, Level 2 Certificate

Certificate
The Heavy Diesel Equipment/Crane Technology Level 2 Certificate will prepare students for a career in the repair and maintenance of diesel engines and the electrical components of off-road heavy equipment, cranes, forklifts, and other various equipment. Topics of study will focus on the knowledge and technical skills students need to obtain entry-level employment.
Length 1.5 Years
If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 45 credits for this program in three terms.

Heavy Diesel Truck Trainee, Certificate of Technology

Certificate
The Certificate of Technology prepares you for the degree program, an entry-level career, or advancement in your current career. For dual credit and early college high school students, this certificate program focuses on the technical training to enter the diesel technology field.
Length 2 Years
If you're studying part-time, you can complete the 29 credits for this certificate in four terms.

Heavy Diesel Truck, AAS

Career/Technical
The Associate of Applied Science degree prepares you for an entry-level career in the repair and maintenance of diesel engines with a focus on engines for over-the-road heavy duty diesel trucks. You’ll cover essential topics such as repair and maintenance, transmissions, fuel systems, brakes, and differentials, as well as industry soft skills.
Length 2 Years
If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 60 credits for this program in four terms.

Heavy Diesel Truck, Certificate of Technology

Certificate
The Certificate of Technology prepares you for the degree program, an entry-level career, or advancement in your current career. With a focus on technical training, you’ll gain the skills required for the field of diesel technology in the repair and maintenance of over-the-road, heavy-duty diesel trucks.
Length 1.5 Years
If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 42 credits for this certificate in three terms.

CAREER TRACKS

The content below shows a flowchart of the career tracks.

Stackable Credentials

No matter which Certificate of Technology you start with, you will be able to apply those credits to the AAS  if you choose to pursue it.

Applying to San Jac

Sounds great, but how do I apply?

Ready to take the first step toward an exciting future? It’s time to apply to San Jac. We’ll guide you through the process and help you start building your future, today.

Get Your Questions Answered

Get the answers you need about diesel training, hands-on learning, and careers working on powerful equipment.

You'll learn engine testing and repair, preventative maintenance, electrical systems, hydraulics, brake systems, powertrain systems, HVAC, diagnostics, and shop safety.
You'll train on heavy-duty diesel trucks, cranes, forklifts, and generators. You'll learn to use large equipment for transportation, construction, and industry. 
No. Diesel technicians can work in various fields. These include oil and gas, construction, public transportation, power generation, and heavy equipment repair.
Yes. The program emphasizes hands-on training with real industry equipment. You'll work with engine testing, electrical systems, brakes, hydraulics, HVAC, and more.
Diesel technology is all about big, powerful machines. This includes heavy-duty trucks and industrial equipment. You'll get to work on engines and systems often. These are used for hauling, construction, transportation, and power applications.

An Exciting, Stable Career Awaits

San Jacinto College's Heavy Diesel Equipment/Crane Technician program opens doors to a high-demand, specialized field, providing students with skills applicable to a wide range of industries.
Diesel Technology Program
Our students work on various diesel engines, including brands like Freightliner, Cummins, Volvo, and Caterpillar. This ensures our students aren't limited to one type of equipment but are versatile in handling various machines. They also train in electrical and hydraulics. Each day is something new, which keeps it interesting.”
Marlon Watts
Diesel Instructor
Pursuing a career as a Diesel Heavy Equipment/Crane Technician offers both stability and the opportunity to solve problems while working as part of a team. Job opportunities are abundant, with careers spanning public transportation, oil and gas, construction, and more.  

Contact the Diesel Tech Department

We’re here to answer any questions and help you find out which diesel technology program is right for you. Reach out today at 281-998-6150.

Ruben Howard
Dept Chair, Industrial Tech
Phone
(281) 998-6350x7435
Location
North