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The Diesel Mechanics Diploma prepares students for careers in the rapidly growing diesel industry by providing the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to become entry-level diesel technicians. The program emphasizes the maintenance and repair of over-the-road diesel trucks while also providing exposure to a variety of diesel-powered equipment systems.
Students receive instruction through a combination of classroom theory and extensive laboratory experiences in electrical systems, hydraulic and air brakes, chassis and driveline systems, preventative maintenance, and air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Training takes place in modern laboratories using industry-standard tools, equipment, and diagnostic technology.
With small class sizes, individualized instruction, and opportunities for paid internships, students gain real-world experience that prepares them for immediate employment. Graduates are highly sought after by employers in the transportation, agriculture, construction, and equipment industries and are prepared to begin rewarding careers in a high-demand field. Students who complete this diploma will have earned a Diesel Maintenance Certificate and earn credit toward completion of the Diesel Technology, A.A.S. degree by completion. Graduates of this program are awarded a diploma.
Program Highlights
Fast-Track Training: Complete the diploma in as little as one year and quickly enter the workforce.
Extensive Hands-On Learning: Gain real-world experience through laboratory training using industry-standard tools, equipment, and diagnostic technology.
Diesel-Focused Curriculum: Begin working on diesel equipment immediately without first completing automotive coursework.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in modern laboratories designed to simulate real-world diesel service environments.
Small Class Sizes: Benefit from individualized instruction and one-on-one interaction with experienced faculty.
Comprehensive Systems Training: Learn diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulic and air brakes, chassis and drivetrain systems, HVAC systems, and preventative maintenance procedures.
Paid Internship Opportunities: Gain valuable industry experience and professional connections through summer internship opportunities.
Strong Employer Partnerships: Connect with employers throughout the region who actively recruit Iowa Western graduates.
Excellent Job Placement Opportunities: Prepare for employment in a high-demand industry with strong career prospects and advancement opportunities.
High-Demand Career Field: Enter an industry that supports transportation, agriculture, construction, and countless other essential sectors.
Job Outlook
1,320 Jobs (2025)
-1.2% change from 2024-2025
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
What will you do
Graduates may:
- Diagnose and repair diesel engines and related systems.
- Inspect, service, and repair electrical and electronic systems.
- Maintain and repair hydraulic and air brake systems.
- Service chassis, suspension, steering, and drivetrain components.
- Perform preventative maintenance inspections and repairs.
- Diagnose and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
- Utilize diagnostic equipment, service manuals, and technical information systems.
- Perform maintenance and repairs according to manufacturer specifications.
- Maintain service records and communicate repair recommendations.
- Follow industry safety standards and professional work practices.
- Troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical problems in diesel-powered equipment.
- Prepare diesel trucks and equipment for safe and reliable operation.
Wages
Entry: $24.40
Average: $29.29
Experienced: $32.22
Wage and employment data are from Lightcast (Q2 2026 data set), timeframe 2024–2025.
First Semester | ||||
| DSL 324 - Introduction to Diesel | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| DSL 674 - Chassis/Driveline | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| DSL 846 - Diesel Lab I 2 | 6.0 Credit(s) | |||
| MAT 772 - Applied Math 1 | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 17.0 Credits | ||||
Second Semester | ||||
| DSL 654 - Hydraulic/Air Brakes | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| DSL 144 - Electrical Systems | 4.0 Credit(s) | |||
| DSL 856 - Diesel Lab II 2 | 6.0 Credit(s) | |||
| ENG 110 - Writing For The Workplace | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 17.0 Credits | ||||
Summer | ||||
| DSL 742 - Air Conditioning/Refrigeration | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
| DSL 829 - Preventative Maintenance | 2.0 Credit(s) | |||
| DSL 863 - Diesel Lab III 2 | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 7 Credits | ||||
Total Semester Hours Required: 41 | ||||
Notes:1May substitute MAT 102 or higher. | ||||
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Program Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of the program students will:
- Use electrical and electronic terminology.
- Explain engine components and systems using proper terminology.
- Identify hydraulic and pneumatic system components.