13 Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in North Carolina 

Are you interested in securing your future with a growing and profitable career?

If you have a knack for fixing things, consider advancing your skills in a Diesel Mechanics Program in North Carolina.

Diesel Mechanic Schools in North Carolina offer programs for servicing and maintaining various industrial equipment, including boats. Read on, and find out more. 

The demand for diesel-powered vehicles in North Carolina’s commerce industry is increasing nationwide due to their reliability and improved fuel economy. 

As their global marketplace expands, companies increasingly rely on diesel engines to ship goods worldwide. 

The diesel industry constantly seeks certified and well-educated professional mechanics to fill job openings in diesel technology, and also ensure its vehicles remain in optimal condition. 

Diesel engines are integral to diverse lucrative sectors, such as trucking, farming, construction, railroads, transportation sectors and even more.  All these sectors rely on diesel-powered vehicles for more than 80% of daily product deliveries.

With heavy equipment technician jobs in high demand, the industry predicts significant growth.

Diesel Mechanic Programs provide an in-depth exploration of the complex elements within a diesel engine, equipping students with essential fundamentals and techniques for diesel repair. 

The comprehensive curriculum encompasses a range of general coursework, spanning natural sciences and humanities. 

Students gain a well-rounded understanding of the intricacies involved in diesel engine maintenance and repair through this specialized program.

Educational Requirements for Diesel Mechanic Programs in North Carolina 

Before enrolling in a diesel technology program in North Carolina, applicants typically need to meet specific requirements set by vocational institutes and community colleges.

The common requirement is the completion of a GED or high school diploma.

Some community colleges may have more rigid requirements, mandating prospective students to have a minimum of two years of high school maths and science, along with four years of high school English.

Diesel Mechanic Certification in North Carolina 

Certification in North Carolina is not a mandatory requirement for diesel mechanics, but many employers in the state prefer applicants to hold certification before hiring.

To showcase commitment to the diesel technology field, individuals can pursue a special certification offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). 

This certification covers various aspects such as electrical systems, steering systems, preventative maintenance, and brakes.

Diesel mechanics with this certification not only enhance their chances of securing higher-paying positions but also increase the likelihood of future promotions.

Diesel Mechanic Programs offered by Schools in North Carolina address the rising demand for skilled professionals in these high-tech and hands-on careers.

Enroll in any of these Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology programs in North Carolina, to become a qualified professional capable of diagnosing and repairing essential equipment. 

List of Diesel Mechanic Schools in North Carolina

  • Guilford Technical Community College 
  • Forsyth Technical Community College
  • Carteret Community College
  • Pitt Community College
  • Wilson Community College
  • Blue Ridge Community College
  • Central Piedmont Community College
  • Wilkes Community College
  • Wake Technical Community College
  • Cape Fear Community College 
  • Coastal Carolina Community College 
  • Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College 
  • Rowan-Cabarrus Community College 

Guilford Technical Community College 

Guilford Technical Community College offers a Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology program that provides comprehensive education and skills for employment in diesel-powered medium and heavy-duty vehicles. 

The curriculum covers vehicle construction, operation principles, and mechanical system repairs. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level technician positions in dealerships, fleet shops, or independent garages. 

The program is designed to impart expertise sought by companies, delivered through modern facilities and experienced instructors. Guilford Technical Community College is accredited by SACSCOC. 

Successful completion of the program allows students to repair diesel engines, replace components, and address various mechanical systems in medium to heavy-duty vehicles. 

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.gtcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/programs/manufacturing-transportation-construction/diesel-heavy-equipment-and-transportation.php
  • Phone: 336.334.4822
  • Email: info@gtcc.edu 
  • Address: 601 E. Main Street P.O. Box 309 Jamestown, NC 27282

Forsyth Technical Community College  

Forsyth Technical Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program offers hands-on training in engine diagnostics, repair, electrical systems, preventive maintenance, and more. 

Graduates from the program are equipped for entry-level positions in servicing and repairing heavy equipment, having gained practical experience in a diesel shop environment. 

The outcomes cover a range of skills including; diagnostics, hydraulics, fuel systems, electrical work, powertrains, welding, braking, maintenance, inspections, tune-ups, repairs, troubleshooting, diesel fuel systems, brake systems, hydraulic systems, engine overhaul, drive trains, lubrication, cooling, steering, suspension, transmission, and safety.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.forsythtech.edu/programs/diesel-and-heavy-equipment-technology/
  • Phone: 336.723.0371
  • Address: 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 

Carteret Community College 

Carteret Community College offers a Diesel Mechanic program that equips individuals with the technical knowledge to repair and maintain diesel engines in various vehicles and equipment. 

The program, part of the Mobile Equipment Maintenance and Repair pathway, introduces students to transportation service careers, covering topics like braking systems, climate control, electrical systems, and more. 

Graduates are prepared for entry-level technician roles in the transportation industry and can pursue professional licensure exams. 

Additionally, Carteret CC provides university transfer agreements for those earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Diesel and Heavy Equipment. Students can transfer to East Carolina University for a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://carteret.edu/programs/diesel-heavy-equipment-technology/
  • Phone: (252) 222-6000
  • Address: Carteret Community College 3505 Arendell St. Morehead City, NC 28557

Pitt Community College  

Pitt Community College’s Automotive Systems Technology program provides various Certificate and Diploma options, including the Light Duty Diesel Diploma. 

Students cover aspects like Brake Systems, Transport Tech, Basic Transportation Electricity, Advanced Auto Electricity, Engine Repair, Adv Transportation Electronics, and Light-Duty Diesel specifics such as Fuel Systems and Test and Diagnosis. 

The program equips individuals with the skills needed for a career in automotive systems and offers flexibility through elective choices.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://pittcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/construction-and-industrial-technology/automotive-systems-technology-department/automotive-systems-technology-diplomas-and-certificate/
  • Phone: 252-493-7200
  • Address: 1986 Pitt Tech Road
    Winterville, NC 28590

Wilson Community College 

Wilson Community College’s Automotive Systems Technologies program prepares individuals to repair, service, and maintain various automobiles. 

The curriculum covers essential areas such as brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, suspension, steering, transmissions, and heating/air conditioning. 

Coursework delves into transportation systems theory, climate control, design parameters, environmental regulations, safety, and sustainable transportation. 

Graduates are equipped to take professional licensure exams and pursue entry-level technician roles in the transportation industry. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of automotive systems and technologies.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.wilsoncc.edu/academics/industrial-technologies/automotive-systems-technologies/

Blue Ridge Community College 

Blue Ridge Community College’s Automotive Light-Duty Diesel program equips individuals with the technical knowledge and skills to diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul light-duty diesel vehicles under one-ton classification. 

The curriculum covers electrical systems, diesel-electric drive, engine performance, repair, emission systems, and various diesel engines related to light-duty diesel vehicles. 

Graduates are prepared to take professional licensure exams and pursue entry-level technician careers in the transportation industry. 

The program offers a diploma in Automotive Light-Duty Diesel Technology, as well as certificates in Light-Duty Diesel Fuel Systems and Light-Duty Diesel Performance.

Contact Info: 

  • Phone: (828) 694-1686
  • Email: jd_shook@blueridge.edu

Central Piedmont Community College 

Central Piedmont Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program provides comprehensive training in inspecting, repairing, servicing, and maintaining heavy-duty trucks and heavy equipment diesel engines. 

Covering various vehicles, from heavy-duty trucks to buses, ships, and stationary diesel engines, the program ensures students can make necessary adjustments for safety and optimal performance. 

Graduates are equipped to utilize industry tools, procedures, and technical terminology, maintain and troubleshoot diesel transport and heavy equipment systems, and handle complex electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulically-controlled components. 

The program introduces students to industry careers, increases awareness of diverse technologies, and prepares them for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Exam

Graduates can seek employment as entry-level transportation service technicians in dealerships, fleet shops, or independent repair shops.

The work-based learning component allows students to gain career experience while earning money, often leading to job placement before graduation. 

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.cpcc.edu/programs/diesel-and-heavy-equipment-technology
  • Phone: 704.330.4181
  • Email: jeremy.taylor@cpcc.edu 
  • Address: Central Piedmont Community College, Merancas Campus

Wilkes Community College  

Wilkes Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology curriculum is crafted to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills for servicing, troubleshooting, and repairing medium and heavy-duty vehicles. 

The coursework delves into the purpose, construction features, and operational principles of these vehicles, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for entry-level employment in dealerships, fleet shops, or independent garages as technicians. 

Successful completion of the program and meeting the work experience requirement positions graduates to take the ASE certification examination.

Learning outcomes encompass a comprehensive range of skills, including identifying functions, reading diagrams, and manufacturer specifications, inspecting, diagnosing problems, replacing/repairing, and servicing major components of heavy-duty equipment and vehicles. 

The curriculum emphasizes adherence to OSHA standards, showcasing safety procedures for equipment, personal safety, and the safety of others. 

Students learn to adeptly use hand and electronic testing and repair equipment, both independently and collaboratively, to meet industry standards. 

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.wilkescc.edu/programs/transportation/diesel/
  • Address: Wilkes Community College, 1328 S. Collegiate Drive, Wilkesboro, NC 28697

Wake Technical Community College

Wake Technical Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program equips individuals with the technical knowledge and skills essential for repairing, servicing, and maintaining diesel engines in various vehicles, including heavy-duty trucks, buses, ships, and more. 

The comprehensive curriculum covers engines, hydraulics, electrical and electronic systems, powertrain systems, and more. 

Coursework delves into transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drivetrains, safety, and sustainable transportation, depending on the chosen major area.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared to take professional licensure exams, align with specific programs of study, and step into entry-level technician roles within the transportation industry. 

Work-based learning opportunities further enhance practical skills and knowledge.

The curriculum, designed to address the troubleshooting and repair needs of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, includes core coursework in the theory of operations, troubleshooting techniques, and repair procedures for engines, electrical systems, and hydraulics. 

Additional courses cover transmissions, brakes, and steering/suspension.  

The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Diploma program provides a robust foundation for individuals aspiring to thrive in this dynamic field. 

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.waketech.edu/programs-courses/credit/diesel-and-heavy-equipment-tech
  • Phone: 919-866-5257
  • Email: jpkearns@waketech.edu
  • Address: Wake Technical Community College, 9101 Fayetteville Road, Raleigh, NC 27603.

Cape Fear Community College  

Cape Fear Community College’s curriculum offers comprehensive training for individuals aspiring to become technicians specializing in servicing and maintaining the propulsion systems of boats and various marine and industrial equipment. 

The coursework encompasses maintenance and repair procedures for mechanical, electrical, and hydraulics equipment used in marine systems. 

Students learn to inspect, test, and troubleshoot equipment to identify faulty operation causes, followed by the repair or replacement of defective parts.

Upon completing the curriculum, graduates are well-equipped to qualify as marine technicians, opening employment opportunities in diverse settings such as marinas, shipyards, and industrial and trucking industries. 

The program provides a solid foundation for individuals seeking a rewarding career in the marine and industrial equipment maintenance and repair field.

Contact Info: 

  • Phone: 9103627000 / 910-362-7546
  • Email: jmbohl683@cfcc.edu

Coastal Carolina Community College  

Coastal Carolina Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program is designed to equip individuals with the technical knowledge and skills required to proficiently repair, service, and maintain diesel engines. 

This encompasses a wide range of vehicles, including Heavy Duty Trucks over one-ton classification, buses, ships, railroad locomotives, and various equipment. 

Additionally, the program covers stationary diesel engines used in electrical generators and related equipment.

The program at Coastal Carolina Community College offers a Diploma along with four Certificates, each identified as a limited enrollment program with specific deadlines. 

This program provides a comprehensive foundation for those seeking expertise in diesel engine maintenance across diverse vehicles and equipment.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.coastalcarolina.edu/academics/programs/career-and-technical/diesel/
  • Phone: (910) 455-1221
  • Address: 444 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College  

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Program offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree, Certificate, and Diploma options. 

Graduates of the A.A.S. programs are equipped to enter the job market as heavy-duty truck mechanics, Diesel engine specialists, fuel injection service technicians, or heavy tractor mechanics.

The curriculum focuses on providing essential technical knowledge and skills for success in the heavy equipment and Diesel engine industry. 

Core courses cover various aspects of preparing diesel engine mechanics for basic diagnosis and repair using appropriate tools, equipment, procedures, and service information related to heavy equipment systems. 

Graduates have the opportunity to pursue careers in areas such as Diesel engines in heavy-duty trucks, buses, ships, railroad locomotives, and equipment, as well as stationary diesel engines in electrical generators and related equipment. 

The program at A-B Tech offers a comprehensive education to individuals aspiring to excel in the field of Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://abtech.edu/programs/academic/diesel-and-heavy-equipment-technology
  • Phone: (828) 398-7900
  • Email: info@abtech.edu 
  • Address: Asheville-Buncombe, Technical Community College, 340 Victoria Road, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 USA

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College  

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s Light-Duty Diesel Technology program concentrates on cars, trucks with a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 to 10,000 pounds, and small diesel generators. 

While there is some overlap with the current automotive technology program, the light-duty diesel technology program introduces five exclusive diesel courses for its students.

Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared to pursue entry-level technician positions in the transportation industry, particularly in automotive repair shops. 

Wade Vernon serves as the Program Chair, overseeing the curriculum that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the field of Light-Duty Diesel Technology.

Contact Info: 

  • Visit the Website: https://www.rccc.edu/beps/light-duty-diesel-technology/
  • Phone: 704-216-3924
  • Email: wade.vernon@rccc.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a diesel mechanic in NC?

To pursue a career as a diesel mechanic in North Carolina, individuals can expect a two to three-year commitment to full-time classes and training.

Opting for a major in automotive technology is the ideal path to becoming a diesel mechanic, as most diesel mechanics choose this specialization.

What is the average salary for a diesel mechanic in NC?

$54,600 per year 

In North Carolina, there are currently 5,930 employed diesel mechanics, according to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The average annual salary for diesel mechanic professionals stands at $40,740 to $54,600 or $26.25 per hour. Entry-level positions begin at $47,768 per year, while experienced workers can earn up to $70,142 per year.

Do I need a license to be a mechanic in North Carolina?

General auto mechanics in North Carolina do not require a license. However, vehicles must pass an annual safety inspection, and in certain counties, an emissions test is also mandatory.

How do I become a licensed mechanic in NC?

To become a licensed mechanic in North Carolina, auto mechanics must obtain certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), demonstrating their competence and knowledge in the industry.

Conclusion

In the dynamic field of Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, a hands-on career awaits individuals eager to work with powerful machines and cutting-edge technology. 

From engine repairs to troubleshooting complex systems, professionals in this field play a vital role in the industry. 

With a growing demand for skilled technicians in construction, mining, transportation, and agriculture, there are abundant opportunities to advance careers in this field. 

Explore these listed Diesel Mechanic Schools above and make a significant impact. Check out the 5 Best Motorcycle Mechanic Schools in Florida.

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