Diesel Equipment Technology

The Diesel Equipment Technology program provides the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed for high-demand careers in the logging, construction, mining, agriculture, and trucking industries.

A diesel tech student works on an engine in the diesel classroom at Centralia College.

A diesel tech student smiles as she opens the door to a Centralia College truck.

A group of diesel tech students work together on an enginer repair in the diesel classroom.

With a mixture of in-class instruction and hands-on training, Centralia College diesel tech students receive comprehensive training in welding and in the preventative maintenance and repair of diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, transmissions, and HVAC systems.

Bachelor's Degree Option

Did you know Centralia College offers an applied bachelor's degree in Diesel Technology? Take your career beyond the shop and into management in just two years.

Career Possibilities in Diesel Technology

Completion of the Diesel Equipment Technology program prepares students to diagnose, repair, and maintain agricultural and construction equipment, diesel locomotives, forklifts, heavy-duty equipment, HVAC systems, and logging and trucking equipment.

Upon successful completion, students will have demonstrated the ability to:

  • Perform repair procedures using proper tools while abiding by safety and environmental regulations.
  • Identify, diagnose and repair electrical and hydraulic circuits.
  • Maintain proper workplace documentation in a professional manner.
  • Conduct behavior that is consistent with the professionalism standards of the industry.

Degree: Associate in Applied Science
Emphasis: Diesel Equipment Technology
Total Units: 103-110

First Year  
Fall Term
  • TRDS 101 Career & College Success - 3 units
  • DET 105 Shop Skills/Transmissions I - 14 units
  • BTEC 130 Computer Applications or BTEC 214 Excel I - 3-5 units
Winter Term
  • DET 115 Mobile Electrical/Hydraulic Systems I - 14 units
  • DET 102 Forklift - 1 unit
  • HLTH 145 Safety & Fitness - 3 units
Spring Term
  • DET 120 Internal Combustion Engines I - 7 units
  • ENGL& 101 English Composition I or WRT 105 Writing in the Workplace - 5 units
  • BTEC 191 Work Experience Seminar - 1 unit
Second Year  
Fall Term
  • DET 205 Electrical & Engines II - 14 units
  • Quantitative Distribution - 5 units
Winter Term
  • DET 215 Power Transmission & Chassis Systems - 14 units
Spring Term
  • DET 240 Mobile HVAC & Shop Application or DET 245 Mobile HVAC & Co-op Work Experience - 14 units

 

Students may earn their Commercial Drivers License (CDL) as part of the Diesel Techology program. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor to discuss the course sequence and potential funding information. It is recommended students also meet with their funding source (Financial Aid, Workforce Funding, etc.) to discuss this option. CDL 100 is a competitve entry course - students must complete the additional application and submit all relevant application materials. Visit the CDL program webpage for applications information and deadlines.

Degree: Associate in Applied Science + Commercial Driver License (CDL)
Emphasis: Diesel Equipment Technology
Total Units: 103-110

First Year  
Fall Term
  • TRDS 101 Career & College Success - 3 units
  • DET 105 Shop Skills/Transmissions I - 14 units
Winter Term
  • DET 115 Mobile Electrical/Hydraulic Systems I - 14 units
  • DET 102 Forklift - 1 unit
Spring Term
  • DET 120 Internal Combustion Engines I - 7 units
  • ENGL& 101 English Composition I or WRT 105 Writing in the Workplace - 5 units
  • BTEC 191 Work Experience Seminar - 1 unit
Summer Term
  • CDL 100 Commercial Drivers License (non-credit certification program)
Second Year  
Fall Term
  • DET 205 Electrical & Engines II - 14 units
  • Quantitative Distribution - 5 units
Winter Term
  • DET 215 Power Transmission & Chassis Systems - 14 units
  • BTEC 191 Work Experience Seminar - 1 unit
Spring Term
  • DET 235 Mobile HVAC Systems - 7 units
  • HLTH 145 Safety & Fitness - 3 units
  • BTEC 130 Computer Applications or BTEC 214 Excel I - 3-5 units

Tool Lists

The following tools are required for students enrolled in the Diesel Equipment Technology program at Centralia College. We recommend the tools you buy are of high quality and carry a lifetime guarantee.

As a Centralia College Diesel Equipment Technology student, you are eligible to purchase tools
at discount prices from a wide range of companies through their Vocational Education Pricing Programs. These programs are available through Snap-On, Craftsman, Matco, and other large tool manufacturers. For more information or questions, contact the Diesel Equipment Technology instructors or each individual company.

Required Freshman Year Tool List

  • Flashlight
  • Combination Wrench Set SAE 5/16”- 1 5/16”
  • Combination Wrench Set Metric 8mm – 19mm
  • 1/4” Socket Set SAE and Metric
  • 3/8” Socket Set SAE and Metric
  • 1/2” Socket Set SAE and Metric
  • 3/8” Extension Set
  • 1/2” Extension Set
  • 1/4”, 3/8”, and 1/2” Ratchets
  • Screwdriver Set (6 Piece)
  • Side Cut Pliers
  • Arc Joint Pliers
  • Locking Pliers
  • Snap Ring Pliers
  • Slip Joint Pliers
  • Wire Stripper/Crimper Pliers
  • 8oz and 16oz Ball Peen Hammer
  • 3-5 lb Dead-Blow Hammer
  • Feeler Gauge Set
  • 1/4”, 1/2”, 3/4” Cold Chisels
  • Center Punch
  • Pry Bar Set
  • Rubber Tipped Air Nozzle
  • Cotter Key Puller
  • Hacksaw with Blades
  • Measuring Tape
  • Gasket Scraper
  • Hex Key Set SAE and Metric
  • Digital Volt/Ohm/Amp Meter (comparable to Fluke 115, Auto Ranging, DC Amps 10 or More)
  • Tool Storage Box

Suggested Sophomore Year Tool List

  • 10” Extension Bar: 3/8” Drive
  • 10” Extension Bar: 1/2” Drive
  • Torx Socket Set T8-T50
  • Allen Wrench Socket Set 5/64”-3/4”
  • Allen Wrench Socket Set 2mm-19mm
  • Pliers Kit
  • 12” Pry Bar
  • 18” Pry Bar
  • Drift Punch: 3/8” x 8”
  • Drift Punch: 1/2” x 7”
  • Inspection Mirror
  • Hook/Pick Set
  • Torque Wrench: 1/2”, 25-250 ft. lbs.
  • Torque Wrench: 3/8”, 25-100 ft. lbs.
  • 0-6” Caliper
  • 0-2” Micrometer
  • Dial Indicator Set: 0.0001” Graduation
  • Hydraulic Wrench Set – 14-piece
  • 1/2” Impact Wrench
  • 1-3/8” Comb Wrench
  • 1-7/16” Comb Wrench
  • 1-1/2” Comb Wrench
  • 16” Arc Joint Pliers
  • 3 lb. Hammer
  • 1 lb. Brass Hammer
  • 9” Rolling Head Pry Bar (Heel Bar)
  • 18” Rolling Head Pry Bar (Heel Bar)
  • 22” Rolling Head Pry Bar (Heel Bar)
  • 4-piece Flare Nut Wrench Set
  • Crowfoot Set – Metric and Standard
  • Mini Butane Torch

 

Contact

Career & Technical Education
Tech (TEC) Building, Room 114
360-623-8963
cte@centralia.edu
Brian Lipp
Assistant Professor
Office: TEC 202D
360-623-8730
Email Brian Lipp