Diesel Mechanics
Diesel Mechanics (DEM) is a 60 semester hour program combining classroom theory and hands-on practice in the laboratory. Requirements for the certificate of completion include four academic courses totaling 12 semester hours and all required career technical courses. Students can also earn stackable short term certificates and industry certifications. This program is designed to help students acquire the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to prepare for successful entry-level employment in the field of diesel mechanics.
Awards
- Certificate
-
- Diesel Mechanics
- Short Term Certificate
-
- Electrical Fundamentals
- Engine Repair
- Heavy Duty Brake Repair
- Train Service
Industry Certification
National Career Readiness Credential
Estimated Program Length
Award | Length | Credit Hours |
Short Term Certificate | 1 semester | 12 |
Certificate of Completion | 4 semesters | 60 |
Required Program Courses
Course | Title | Credit Hours |
DEM104 | Basic Engines | 3 |
DEM111 | Equip Safety/Mech. Fundamentals | 3 |
DEM122 | Heavy Vehicle Brakes | 3 |
DEM123 | Pneumatics and Hydraulics | 3 |
DEM124 | Electronic Engine Systems | 3 |
DEM125 | Heavy Vehicle Drive Trains | 3 |
DEM126 | Advanced Engines | 3 |
DEM127 | Fuel Systems | 3 |
DEM128 | Heavy Vehicle Drive Train Lab | 3 |
DEM129 | Diesel Engine Lab | 3 |
DEM130 | Electrical/Electronic Fundamentals | 3 |
DEM135 | HV Steering/Suspension Systems | 3 |
DEM137 | Heating/AC/Refrigeration Systems | 3 |
DEM170 | Heavy Vehicle Air Brakes | 3 |
DEM183 | Special Topics in Power Train | 3 |
DEM186 | Special Projects in Comm. Vehicles | 3 |
Required Academic Courses
Course | Title | Credit Hours |
DPT100 | Introductory Computer Skills I | 3 |
ENG100 | Vocational Technical English | 3 |
MAH101 | Introductory Mathematics I | 3 |
SPC103 | Oral Communication Skills | 3 |
Elective Courses
Course | Title | Credit Hours |
DEM105 | Preventive Maintenance | 3 |
DEM181 | Special Topics in Electrical | 3 |
DEM182 | Special Topics in Engines | 3 |
DEM184 | ST HD Brakes/Steering/Suspension | 3 |
DEM191 | Special Projects in Diesel Mechanics | 3 |
Electives may be offered to meet a student’s personal educational goals or for instructional purposes.

Program Contact
Mr. Randy Hull, Instructor
Draper Instructional Service Center
334-514-3590
This is a “Live Work” program.
Occupational Data*
Diesel mechanics inspect, repair, and overhaul buses and trucks, and maintain and/or repair any type of diesel engine. Diesel mechanics usually work in repair shops, but may occasionally repair vehicles on roadsides or at worksites. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for diesel mechanics was $46,360 in May 2017. Job prospects will be best for those who have completed postsecondary training in diesel engine repair.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook
