Diesel and Heavy Equipment

Program Overview

Our Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology curriculum is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to service, troubleshoot, and repair medium and heavy-duty vehicles. You'll learn about the construction features and operating principles of these vehicles, preparing you for real-world challenges.

Credentials Offered: Degree, Diploma & Certificate

What You'll Learn

• Diesel Engine Theory and Design - Learn how diesel engines are built and how combustion, fuel delivery, and airflow systems work together.
• Power Trains - Study transmissions, drivetrains, and differentials to understand how power moves from the engine to the wheels.
• Brake Systems - Inspect, service, and repair air and hydraulic brake systems used on heavy-duty vehicles.
• Electronic Systems - Work with modern vehicle electronics, sensors, and diagnostic tools used in today’s diesel equipment.
• Hydraulic Systems - Learn how hydraulic systems operate and how they are used to power heavy machinery and equipment.
• Troubleshooting and Repair - Practice diagnosing mechanical and electrical problems and completing accurate, efficient repairs.
• Safety and Preventive Maintenance - Follow industry safety standards while performing routine inspections and maintenance to keep equipment running safely.
• Learn More About This Field

Career Opportunities

When you complete the program, you’ll be prepared for entry-level diesel and heavy equipment technician roles in a variety of settings, including:

• Entry-Level Technician Roles at companies like:

• Dealerships - Service and repair diesel vehicles and equipment for manufacturers and authorized dealers.

• Fleet maintenance shops - Maintain and repair trucks, buses, and heavy equipment for public and private fleets.

• Independent automotive garages - Perform diagnostics and repairs in independently owned diesel and heavy equipment garages.

With additional work experience, you may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams. ASE certification can help you stand out to employers and demonstrate your professional skills in diesel and heavy equipment repair.

NC3 Partnerships

Through Johnston Community College’s partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3), you can earn industry-recognized certifications from two global leaders: Kubota Tech and Thermo King. These stackable credentials are built into our Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology program to give you hands-on training with the same tools and systems used by today’s employers.

Kubota Tech Program

Through our NC3 partnership with Kubota Tech, you’ll get specialized training in off-road diesel and heavy equipment. This program is built into the Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology curriculum and prepares you for real-world work in construction, agriculture, and equipment dealerships. 

Thermo King Certifications

Through Johnston Community College’s NC3 partnership with Thermo King, you can earn two stackable certifications in transport refrigeration. Thermo King Level I (PDF) introduces you to the fundamentals—covering refrigeration principles, system components, unit operation, and preventive maintenance.

Once you’ve built this foundation, you can advance to Thermo King Level II (PDF), where you’ll dive deeper into diagnostics, control systems, and advanced troubleshooting.

Take the First Step

Apply Now!

Still Have Questions?

Request More Information