Southeast Technical launches Diesel Maintenance program
In September 2013, Southeast Technical was awarded a Department of Labor grant to establish a Diesel Maintenance Technician program, and classes are already beginning in 2014. To earn the
56-credit diploma, students will start with the Automotive Undercar Specialist certificate, followed by two semesters of diesel
mechanics, focusing on repair and maintenance of commercial trucks.
Previous graduates from an automotive technology program may
receive advanced standing credit toward the completion of the diploma. In
addition, returning veterans who have military training and hands-on experience
in the field may be eligible for credit for prior learning.
Bob Leifeld,
Southeast Technical’s Dean of Trade and Technology, is excited to get the new
program up and running on the Winona campus. "Diesel Maintenance will be housed
in our new state-of-the-art facility, the Norris P. Abts Transportation Center.
The entire program is geared around the needs of working students. Most diesel
courses will be offered in hybrid format, which combines online lectures with
hands-on instruction on campus," he says.
The required
general education courses are available online or offered in the 2-4 pm time
frame if you prefer face-to-face classes, while the core diesel maintenance
courses will take place from 4-9 pm, four days a week.
Graduates of the program will be able to apply their
technical knowledge and skills to maintain, service, and repair commercial vehicles
such as semi-trailer trucks and buses as well as stationary diesel engines in
power units and related equipment.
"According to state data, job and income potential are very
good in the Diesel Maintenance field," concludes Bob Leifeld.