Applied Technology

Diesel Technology

Train for Today’s Diesel and Electric Vehicle Careers

Southeastern Illinois College’s Diesel Technology program prepares students for high-demand careers in diesel, heavy equipment/ag, and emerging electric vehicle (EV) systems. Students graduate with the hands-on skills employers are actively seeking—whether working on traditional diesel engines or advanced electric powertrains.

The program is certified and accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education Foundation. All instructors are ASE Master Certified, ensuring students learn from experienced professionals who meet national industry standards.

Now Integrating Electric Vehicle (EV) Training

Through a $516,000 Rev Up EV Community College Initiative grant, SIC has expanded its curriculum to include electric vehicle safety, diagnostics, and system design. EV content is integrated into SIC’s Diesel Technology Heavy Equipment and Diesel Technology Heavy Duty Truck programs, ensuring students graduate with experience in both traditional diesel systems and emerging electric technologies.

Students train using industry-level equipment, including:

  • EV Switch Electric Vehicle Training System
  • High-voltage safety gear and insulated tool sets
  • Advanced diagnostic equipment
  • Electric wheel loader for heavy equipment applications
  • On-site EV charging station

This ensures graduates are prepared to work on both conventional diesel systems and modern electric platforms.

 

Strong Industry Connections

SIC maintains active partnerships with regional employers including John Deere, Little Tractor and Equipment Company, Crisp Container Corporation, and Pepsi MidAmerica. Industry partners provide internships, hiring opportunities, and advisory input to keep curriculum aligned with workforce needs.

Employers regularly contact SIC seeking qualified graduates.

 

Career Opportunities

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for diesel service technicians and mechanics was $60,640 per year (2024), with continued demand expected as industries modernize equipment and transportation fleets.

Career paths may include:

  • Diesel Mechanic
  • Diesel Technician
  • Heavy Equipment Technician
  • Service Manager
  • Parts Manager
  • Shop Owner or Entrepreneur

Students interested in starting their own business can receive support through The Workforce & Illinois Small Business Development Center (WISBDC) at SIC.

 

Program Learning Outcomes

The goal of the Diesel/Powersports Technology program is to prepare individuals for careers as Diesel/Powersports and Heavy Equipment Mechanics and occupations related to the field. Upon satisfactory completion, the student will meet the entry-level performance requirements, including:
Goal 1: Demonstrate an understanding of the construction, function, and demonstrate general service of major vehicle and equipment components.
Goal 2: Diagnose mechanical malfunctions and performance problems. Demonstrate repair step scenarios.
Goal 3: Make good decisions as to the disposition of worn parts (i.e., “usable as is,” “should be reconditioned or replaced,” etc.).
Goal 4: Operate precision diagnostic tools and demonstrate use and repair on vehicles and equipment.
Goal 5: Demonstrate the use of repair manuals, Read and interpret both electronic and paper forms.
Goal 6: Demonstrate the importance of good public relations with customers, employer, and fellow employees.
Goal 7: Understand and demonstrate basic shop operations.
Goal 8: Demonstrate knowledge of overhead and labor cost in relationship to profit, including shop cost-saving ideas.
Goal 9: Display professionalism on the job.
Goal 10: Demonstrate the use of web-based job search engines and other methods of seeking employment.

Diesel/Powersports Technology Student Handbook

 

Scholarship Opportunities:

The Fabick CAT Scholarship is awarded annually to Diesel Technology students and provides $1,000 toward tuition, books, tools, or other educational expenses.

The award is presented in partnership with Fabick CAT and Caterpillar Inc. to support students preparing for careers in diesel and heavy equipment technology.

For application details and deadlines, contact Robbie Lindhorst at robbie.lindhorst@sic.edu.

Fabick Cat Scholarship 2026 – Deadline: April 15, 2026

 

Ready to get started?

Apply today or schedule a campus visit to tour the Diesel and EV training facilities and meet the instructors preparing students for high-demand careers.

Interested students can contact an advisor at 618-252-5400 ext. 4130 or email advising@sic.edu.

Curriculum Guides