How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Vermont
Do you enjoy working with machines and doing your own automobile maintenance? Do you think you would like to work with heavy duty engines in a fast-paced environment? If so, you might consider a career as a diesel mechanic.
The need for diesel engines in many various industries makes them a vital part of our economic well-being. With the power to drive heavy equipment, diesel engines are an integral to mass transportation, construction and farming, to name a few industries that rely on them. As a diesel mechanic, you would be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing these important motors and other related systems.
Diesel mechanics should expect to work on their feet for long hours, working with diagnostic software, pneumatic tools, welding equipment and other advanced equipment. They regularly interact with customers and other technicians as well as the general public. Overtime, evening and weekend hours are common in the industry.
Diesel Mechanic Regulations in Vermont
Diesel mechanics do not require licensure in the state of Vermont, and there is no oversight board for the industry. Those who would like to pursue training as a diesel mechanic will need to possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and additional training can be completed either through an accredited educational program or on-the job training. Once training is completed, mechanics can further establish themselves by seeking special certifications.
Diesel Mechanic Training in Vermont
Aside from on-the-job training, candidates can seek diesel mechanic training through an accredited program. In Vermont, only one school is listed as providing training for diesel mechanics:
- Vermont Technical College in Randolph Center offers both a certificate in Diesel Technology and an Associate in Applied Science degree in Diesel Power Technology. The Diesel Technology program allows students to practice practical applications learned in the classroom in a garage laboratory. Certificate students will have the ability to transfer seamlessly into the associate’s degree program. The Diesel Power Technology program will cover all systems down to the component level and train students in business modalities. A 400-hour summer internship is included.
Additional Certifications
Founded in 1972, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence(ASE) is an industry standard for automotive technicians. Many employers and potential customers will seek mechanics with ASE certification, as it promotes an extra level of trust in a mechanic’s abilities and professionalism. Certification requires a certain number of hours worked within the field as well as the ability to pass a test.
Salary and Career Growth Expectations
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the industries with the highest level of employment in the diesel mechanic field are truck transportation, automotive repair and maintenance, local governments and motor vehicle supply wholesalers.
In Vermont,diesel mechanics are reported by BLS to make an average annual salary of $46,700. As for growth expectations, data compiled by Career One Stop predicts a 6.4 percent growth rate between the years 2016 to 2026, a bit lower than the national predicted growth rate of 9.3 percent for this field.
Career Opportunities in Vermont
Due to the prevalence of diesel engines in so many places, diesel mechanics enjoy employment opportunities in many varied industries, in both the private and public sectors. There is also significant potential for diesel mechanics to open and run their own businesses. According to BLS data, some of the highest paying industries for the field are natural gas distributors, the federal executive branch and the electric industry. Some potential employers in the state of Vermont include Reyes Holding, the Army National Guard, J & B International Truck Center, Casella Waste Systems, Inc. and Vail Resorts.