Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology

The Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service and maintain diesel engines in the following vehicles:

• Heavy-duty trucks over 1-ton classification
• Buses
• Ships
• Railroad locomotives and equipment

It also prepares them to repair, service and maintain stationary diesel engines in electrical generators and related equipment. 

Students will receive instruction in engines, hydraulics, electrical, electronic and powertrain systems, among other topics. Depending on the program major area chosen, coursework may include the following:

• Transportation systems theory
• Braking system
• Climate control
• Design parameters
• Drivetrains
• Electrical/electronic systems
• Engine repair
• Engine performance
• Environmental regulations
• Materials
• Product finish
• Safety
• Steering and suspension
• Transmission/transaxles
• Sustainable transportation

Graduates of this pathway should be prepared to take professional licensure exams, which correspond to certain programs of study, and to become entry-level technicians in the transportation industry. 

Work-Based Learning opportunities are available.

Limited-enrollment program

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technology is a limited-enrollment program that has unique admission requirements, policies, procedures, schedules and deadlines. Interested applicants should complete the entire application process, including placement testing and review with an academic advisor. The advisor will go over essential information and give you a Limited-Enrollment Student Checklist, which outlines and directs you to the next steps. When meeting with your program advisors, be sure to bring your checklist with you.

Interested applicants for any limited-enrollment programs should email Paige Kearns at [email protected]

Students can enter programs in the Fall or Spring semester by following these steps:

1. Complete the online application and follow application instructions, including requesting your high school and, if applicable, college transcripts and indicating the code or codes for your major on the application.
2. Schedule to take any placement tests (see if you are exempt)
3. Meet with an advisor to review your placement test scores
4. Meet with the HEATT Department head to verify program codes and selected pathway.
5. Find out your start date. If the program you choose is full, the department head can recommend general education courses that can be taken until an opening occurs.

Professional licensure

Wake Tech academic programs (credit and non-credit) that are designed to lead to professional licenses are tied to North Carolina or national certifications. If you intend to pursue professional licenses outside North Carolina once you have completed your academic program at Wake Tech, please refer to the Professional Licensure section of the college's distance education authorization page for additional information.