Diesel Technology AAS Degree

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Diesel Technology AAS Degree

Kickstart Your Career

Dive into the Diesel Technology program to work on trucks, farm machines and construction gear. Master the art of fixing and maintaining powerful diesel engines. Get hands-on with engines, hydraulics, and more to keep big machines running smoothly and make a real impact!

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Diesel Technology at a Glance

Degree

Associate of Applied Science

Length of Study

2 years

Course Format

Face-to-Face

Classes Meet

Daytime

Program Start

Fall

Diesel Powers Our World

11.3M

Diesel Trucks on U.S. Roads

75%

Of Farm Equipment Powered by Diesel

90%

Of Food Moved by Diesel Power

Your Diesel Technology Career

Graduates find jobs as mechanics, service technicians, and diesel engine specialists in

implement dealerships
factories
construction
independent shops
heavy equipment shops and dealerships
engine machine shops
consumer product dealerships

Succeed at Hawkeye

Graduate Spotlight Brock Baldazo

Family played a big part in Brock Baldazo's education. His cousin's experience at Hawkeye Community College is part of the reason he enrolled. His desire to one day take over the family farm is what kept him focused.

Play Watch Brock’s Story

Play Watch Carter’s Story

Graduate Spotlight Carter Thompson

Growing up on a farm outside Huxley, Carter Thompson always had an interest in mechanics. “I was always the guy holding a flashlight for my dad,” he said. “I always wondered what it'd be like to actually be the guy who was turning the wrench, and having all that expertise and knowledge.”

Graduate Spotlight Shane Hillesheim

In high school, Shane Hillesheim restored a tractor for the Iowa State Fair. That experience motivated him to enroll in Diesel Technology at Hawkeye Community College. Now, what used to be a hobby has become a rewarding career.

Play Watch Shane’s Story

Program Overview

You will graduate with skills and experience in:

internal combustion engines
diesel fuel systems
hydraulics
power trains
electrical systems

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Work on a variety of makes and models using the latest systems and equipment in the industry.

Simulation Technology: Practice your electrical and hydraulic skills in a variety of scenarios in a controlled environment.

Train on the latest Case IH, New Holland, and CASE Construction Equipment to gain real-world experience with CNH systems. Through this training, you’ll:

Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
Master advanced digital technology like telematics, GPS, precision technology, and digital displays.
Troubleshoot complex electronics using remote diagnostic tools.
Work on a variety of equipment, including tractors, combines, planters, and earth-moving machinery.
Effectively navigate online parts and service information systems.
Learn from instructors with real-world experience in heavy equipment.

Nearly one in four semi-trucks in the country are Freightliners. Through this training partnership, you gain the skills and expertise to be a Freightliner technician.

This is a partial list of employers who have hired graduates from this program:

Altorfer, Inc., Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Valley Corp., LLC, Waterloo, IA
Deike Implement Co., Waverly, IA
Growmark, Waterloo, IA
MHC Kenworth, Waterloo and Cedar Rapids, IA
Mid America Energy, Waterloo, IA
P&K Midwest, Waterloo and Keystone, IA
Ryder, Cedar Falls, IA
Thermo King, Cedar Falls, IA
Thompson Truck and Trailer, Inc., Cedar Rapids and Waterloo, IA
Titan Machinery, Waverly, IA
Truck Center Companies, Waterloo, IA
Warren Transport, Inc., Waterloo, IA
Ziegler CAT, Mason City and Postville, IA

You can get right to work after your program. Or, if you plan to earn an associate degree and go on to earn a bachelor’s degree, consider your transfer options.

This program has a documented pathway to the Technology Management program at the University of Northern Iowa. Check out UNI's transfer guides to learn more.

If you’re interested in transferring, you must work closely with a program advisor here and at the transfer institution. This is important to ensure courses transfer and you meet program requirements.

Plan your transfer

This program qualifies for the Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship and will pay up to 100% of your tuition.

You must apply for, be awarded, and meet the ongoing eligibility requirements for the Last-Dollar Scholarship.

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Purchasing Tools

As a first-year student, you will rent your tools from Hawkeye. In your second year, you will purchase your tools to use in class and in your career after graduation.

View the 2024-2025 Required Tools List

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