Program Overview
Learn the fundamentals of the operation and preventive maintenance of heavy duty diesel systems. With hands-on training that covers a variety of diesel powered vehicles, engines and power systems, you can get a degree in heavy duty diesel service technology.
Earning Potential
Interested in a career in diesel service technology? Learn more about our region’s employment outlook and career opportunities you can pursue in this field of study.
Diagnose, adjust, repair or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines. Includes mechanics working primarily with automobile or marine diesel engines.
median annual salary
annual job openings
are currently employed within the State of Michigan Prosperity Regions 5 and 6.
This number is expected to over the next four years.
of current workers will reach retirement age within the next ten years.
Visit Career Coach for more details.
Drive electric, diesel-electric, steam or gas-turbine-electric locomotives to transport passengers or freight. Interpret train orders, electronic or manual signals and railroad rules and regulations.
median annual salary
annual job openings
are currently employed within the State of Michigan Prosperity Regions 5 and 6.
This number is expected to over the next four years.
of current workers will reach retirement age within the next ten years.
Visit Career Coach for more details.
Inspect and monitor transportation equipment, vehicles or systems to ensure compliance with regulation and safety standards.
median annual salary
annual job openings
are currently employed within the State of Michigan Prosperity Regions 5 and 6.
This number is expected to over the next four years.
of current workers will reach retirement age within the next ten years.
Visit Career Coach for more details.
Drive switching or other locomotive or dinkey engines within a railroad yard, industrial plant, quarry, construction project or similar location.
median annual salary
annual job openings
are currently employed within the State of Michigan Prosperity Regions 5 and 6.
This number is expected to over the next four years.
of current workers will reach retirement age within the next ten years.
Visit Career Coach for more details.
About Delta's Program
The Delta College Heavy Duty Diesel (HDD) program includes a certification exam from
the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
The HDD ASE exam provides an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of heavy duty
diesel service at a master service technician level. Many employers require this ASE
certification credential when hiring HDD technicians.
Additional important program features:
- Wide variety of hands-on educational settings, offering face-to-face and online classes
- Cost savings
- Study close to home on Delta College's main campus
- Access to all Delta College resources in academics, financial aid, career services and student life
Professional licensure
Students are eligible to receive the ASE national credential which is not recognized by all states for licensure. The Automotive Service license can be earned in Michigan. Each state has their own requirements. There is no guarantee of licensing in another state. You may apply and that state's licensing board will look at your credentials/education and decide requirements for gaining the license. Please contact the Coordinator for further information.
Why you should choose Delta
Life is busy. But that shouldn't get in the way of your education. Delta offers classes at night, on weekends and online to make taking classes and getting that degree easier. Plus, Delta has three centers so you can take classes even closer to home.
You can get hands-on experience in your field while you're working toward that degree. I know. It's awesome! Plus, you'll even get paid. That's co-op! Check it out.
At the Teaching Learning Center, located in the Library, we offer tutoring on a wide variety of subjects, and help with developing study and learning skills. Most tutoring is on a walk-in basis but we do have some online tutoring options.
Best of all, it's free for currently enrolled Delta students. Just another way we demonstrate our commitment to helping students succeed.
Facts & Figures
Related Programs
Delta College offers over 140 degree, certificate and training options. Continue exploring and advancing your education with these related programs:
- Automotive Service Educational Program - Associate
- Automotive Service Technology - Associate
- Automotive Service Technology - Certificate
"We have advisory members telling us all the time that they cannot find enough heavy diesel technicians."
Assistant Professor of Automotive Service Tech