STUDENT FAQ

Are you fascinated with heavy equipment? Do you enjoy working with your hands, and getting dirty? Do you have a knack for taking things apart and then rebuilding them? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a career as a diesel mechanic could be right for you.

Diesel mechanics do everything from routine oil changes, performing inspections, diagnosing issues, maintain engine parts or systems, test drive, and repair diesel powered engines. They work on a variety of large vehicles i.e. trucks, buses, boats, heavy equipment and sometimes light–duty cars, trucks and vans.

Diesel technology certificate degree, short focused program learning specific skills to perform a specific job. Ideal for those who want to start working right away.

Associates degree in diesel mechanics, comprehensive education diving into the science and mathematics of diesel engine maintenance and repair.

Bachelor’s degree for those who have already earned an associate and who wish to further their education and training and increase their earning potential and job title.

Note* Every situation is different and timeframes can take longer than the general timeframes if students are taking part time classes and doing on the job training.

Certificate programs typically range from six to nine months.

Associate’s degree generally takes two years for full-time students.

Bachelor’s degree generally takes four years for full-time students.

Diesel technician certificate programs on average range in cost starting from $25,000 and up (varies by location)

An associate’s degree on average will cost from $10,000 – $30,000 (varies by location)

Bachelor’s degrees cost varies based on program and location.

Top ten skillsets diesel mechanics must have:

Safety-conscious: Diesel mechanics must follow all safety procedures to prevent accidents and/or injuries from happening. Safety first requires using proper tools for the job, always wearing protective gear, keeping work areas clean and organized, being mindful of teammates and other personnel.

Eagerness to learn: Continued training and development is necessary to keep up with changing technology and the evolution of engines. Training can come through certificates, or learning from more experienced mechanics.

Math Skills: Diesel mechanics need to have a firm grasp of basic calculations, decimals, and fractions which are important to everyday work.

Tech savvy: Approximately half of a diesel mechanic’s day involves using a computer to run diagnostics, read troubleshooting codes and run various tests on engines or fuel systems. Using computer programs gives Mechanics and service techs the information they need to perform their job.

Critical Thinking: You can’t rely solely on diagnostic tools to help you in your job. Some issues will require you to step back and evaluate the entire situation that is happening at any given time.

Attention to detail: Good mechanics deal with complex pieces of machinery and must have a sharp eye for little issues that can turn into larger problems down the road such as lose wires or missing bolts.

Patience: There are often unforeseen circumstances when working on engines and machinery. Small issues to really large issues can create a setback and will take patience to work through it. It’s important to maintain composure especially when dealing with a customer over unanticipated issues.

Communication Skills: Mechanics primarily work on engines or machinery, but generally work with other team members and interact with a variety of people on a regular basis. The ability to communicate is vital when explaining technical terms to people who do not understand them. Part of communicating is also listening.

Physical Strength & Stamina: Diesel mechanics have a physically tasking job which often requires standing for long periods of time, working in hot and cramped spaces, and lifting heavy parts or tools. It’s important to stay fit and get plenty of rest to keep up with the physical demands.

Dexterity: Diesel mechanics need a steady hand and matching hand-eye coordination for disassembling engine parts, connecting or attaching components, and using hand tools.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national median annual salary for diesel mechanics is around $47,000. Keep in mind entry level mechanics start much lower than senior level mechanics salaries, and education also has an impact on how much you’ll earn.

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for diesel mechanics and diesel service technicians is expected to increase by nine percent through 2026. BLS also noted that job prospects are greater for mechanics with formal, postsecondary training in diesel mechanics.

You may be eligible for one of our very limited scholarships [10 per year] if:

You’re 18 years old or older are a U.S. citizen, a legal U.S. resident, or are a resident of a U.S. territory and/or are authorized to work in the United States

You’re committed to an education in diesel mechanics and your future

Need help paying for an education to get you started in a diesel mechanic career

Meet GPA and Attendance requirements for paid tuition and reward package

Note* All applicants will be treated fairly, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity and expression, genetic information, or any other factor protected by law.

The maximum household income to qualify for the full-paid tuition and reward package is a combined income of $50,000 for the 2021-2022 cycle.

Yes. If you’re under the age of 24, we require that a parent, guardian, or foster parent are involved in the enrollment process and paperwork signing.

DG Foundation will cover your tuition for a diesel mechanics degree if you meet all of the eligibility requirements including attendance and GPA scores. Students who have poor attendance and a low GPA WILL NOT qualify for a paid tuition, or reward package. Those students will be responsible for their own tuition fees, no exceptions will be made.

Paid Tuition and Rewards Program covers tuition for a diesel technician, welder, or machinist degree for eligible individuals looking for a higher formal education to improve future opportunities and advancements in the diesel industry.

What is not covered by the paid tuition and reward program?

*Tuition coverage does not include other educational expenses, such as textbooks and laptops. Financial aid may help cover these costs.’

You can apply for the Paid Tuition and reward package by filling out intake form or by calling us at 1-702-589-4813 today!

We’ll guide you through the next steps.

No, we do not. We work with colleges around the country that applicants have applied at and have filled out the FASFA information.

DG Foundation requires written access from the student/and or parents to review their information to help determine eligibility for Our Scholarship assistance, as there is a limited number of scholarships available per year.

DG Foundations tuition program is fully funded by sponsors and is FREE to students who meet and keep all requirements, including GPA and attendance. See who is eligible for DG Foundations Paid Tuition and reward package for requirements.

DG Foundation will share your information with our network of hiring employers to increase your chances of starting a career immediately after graduation. Dg Foundation will also have a current job opening listed on the website for graduating students.