A Wallace State graduate in Diesel Mechanics has the opportunity to earn excellent wages, utilize the most modern technology, and work in a growing and challenging field that continues to become more vital to our nation's economy.

   As engines become more technically advanced, the demand for experienced mechanics will increase even more dramatically. Mechanics with leadership skills may also advance to supervisory or management positions.

   High demand has helped to keep truck mechanics' wages high. After only a few brief years in the field, a Wallace State diesel mechanics graduate can expect to earn $20,000 or above. Well-trained diesel truck/heavy equipment mechanics can make $30,000 - $40,000 or more, depending on experience, specialization and area of the country.

Wallace Graduates Work As:

• Preventive Maintenance Inspectors
• Fuel Mechanics
• Truck Drivers
• Power Train Mechanics
• Brake Mechanics

Job Placement

   Diesel Mechanics instruction is one of the original technical programs at Wallace State. Its growth and success through the years is due to its excellent job placement record.

   Wallace State graduates are trained to pass a commercial driver's license test along with the automotive service excellence exam, brake inspection and maintenance tests to insure employability. The demand for skilled mechanics continues to grow because diesel trucks are a vital part of our economy. There is a great need for diesel truck mechanics in all parts of the United States.

   Within the diesel mechanics profession, there are many exciting specialties as well as opportunities for those who enjoy being a "jack-of-all-trades". Truck mechanics may work with anything from small trucks to tractor/trailers powered by diesel and electronic engines.

   Some equipment mechanics, especially those who work for smaller companies with fewer units, are "generalists." They know how to repair problems and systems.

   Diesel mechanics prefer to become technicians with specialties in a few areas such as: brakes, transmissions, axles, drive trains, electronics, suspension, steering, or fuel systems. Many equipment mechanics become specialists in several areas and find that the broader their knowledge, the more valuable they are to an employer.