Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Why Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician?

Diesel and heavy equipment technicians keep the engines of industry running—from trucks and buses to agricultural and construction equipment. In this program, you will learn to inspect, maintain, and repair diesel systems that power some of the most essential machines in our economy. You will develop the specialized skills needed to service advanced engines, hydraulics, and electronic control systems.

At Mid-State, you will train with ASE Master-certified instructors in modern facilities equipped with industry-standard tools and technology. You’ll graduate ready for high-demand positions in transportation, agriculture, and construction—where most students secure employment before graduation.

Maintain and repair diesel engines, transmissions, and heavy equipment systems.
Gain hands-on experience with modern diagnostic tools and advanced technologies.
Learn from ASE Master-certified instructors dedicated to student success.
Train in state-of-the-art labs with real equipment used in the industry.
Achieve Master Truck Service Technology Accreditation through ASE standards.
Enter a high-demand field with strong career opportunities and job security.

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Program Facts

Total Credits

59 Credits

Degree Type

Technical Degree

Program Length

Two Years

Delivery Method

In Person

Location

Wisconsin Rapids

Start Dates

Fall

Estimated Program Cost

$12,174.56

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Fully Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Agriculture Equipment Technician

Bus and Truck Technician

Fleet Maintenance Technician

Heavy Equipment Technician

Over the Road Truck Technician

$60k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $59,579. Source: Lightcast Data Set

447

Average Monthly Hires

447 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

100%

Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate

Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See below for full course details, see the program information guide, or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Instructors

Meet our full-time instructors.

Scott Engel, BS
After working in the transportation industry for several years, Scott realized his passion was to teach what he loved. He received his diesel and heavy equipment technician technical diploma from Western Technical College and a bachelor’s degree from the UW–Stout. Scott has taught for over 20 years in the diesel field and enjoys working with local industry and learning cutting-edge technology that he can incorporate into his program.

“My biggest reward as a teacher is to see my students thriving in their new careers, knowing I helped get them there.”

Chris Omerinik, BS
Chris earned his bachelor’s degree in career, technical education, and training from UW–Stout. He also holds an associate degree from Mid-State Technical College as well as a technical diploma in diesel and heavy equipment repair. He is an ASE master certified technician and a Hunter certified alignment technician. He has worked for over 20 years in the diesel and heavy truck industry and continues to work with truck OEMs, dealerships, and private shops in order to keep up to date on current technology used on heavy trucks as well as with industry needs for technicians.

“There is nothing better than the ‘aha’ moment with a student, that moment when a concept ‘clicks.’ I love that Mid-State’s environment creates those moments for students on a regular basis."

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Diagnose major systems in the diesel and heavy equipment industry.
Repair major systems in the diesel and heavy equipment industry.
Service major systems in the diesel and heavy equipment industry.
Practice personal and professional work habits.
Document complaint, cause, and correction.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.

Mid-State Grad

“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.

Mid-State Grad

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.

Mid-State Grad

“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.

Mid-State Grad

“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.

Mid-State Grad

“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.

Mid-State Grad

Quality You Can Trust

Program accreditation means your program meets high-quality standards recognized by employers and industry leaders. It ensures your education is respected, your credits are more likely to transfer, and your credential holds real value in the job market.

View Accreditation Website

This program meets the requirements for Master Truck Service Technology Accreditation, the highest level of program accreditation recognized by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).