Diesel Technology

Start your career in diesel technology

If you like working with your hands, solving problems, and understanding how machines run, Riverland's Diesel Technology diploma is a strong place to start. You'll get hands-on training on diesel engines, commercial vehicles, and agricultural equipment, the kind of work that keeps trucks, farms, and fleets moving.

Over four semesters you'll build the skills employers want, from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics. Whether you're coming straight from high school or changing careers, there's a place for you here.

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Career outlook

Diesel keeps the country moving, and trained technicians stay in demand. Across the U.S., about 26,500 diesel technician jobs open each year as freight volume grows, aging diesel engines need more repair, and experienced workers retire.² Locally, employers like Nuss Truck & Equipment, Arnold's of Alden, and Sanco Equipment hire diesel and agricultural equipment technicians, so your diploma can put you to work close to home. As you add experience and certifications, your earning potential climbs, with the top diesel technicians earning more than $85,980 a year.¹

¹ Median and top-decile annual wages, diesel service technicians and mechanics, United States, May 2024. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
² U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics, 2024 to 2034 projections.

Program highlights

• Hands-on training: Work directly on engines, commercial vehicles, and agricultural equipment in the lab
• ASE accredited: Meets ASE Education Foundation standards recognized by employers nationwide
• Industry partnerships: Built with employers like Arnold's of Alden, Nuss Truck & Equipment, and Sanco Equipment, with pathways toward internships and employment

What you'll learn

• Diesel engines and fuel systems, including Caterpillar and Cummins
• Transmissions, drivetrains, and power trains
• Air and hydraulic brake systems
• Electrical, electronic, and hydraulic systems
• HVAC for commercial vehicles
• Agricultural equipment systems
• Preventive maintenance, inspection, and shop safety

Where this can take you

As a diesel technician, you could work for trucking and freight companies, fleet maintenance shops, agricultural equipment dealerships, public transit agencies, construction and heavy equipment operations, or independent repair centers. With experience and certifications, you can move into lead technician, shop foreman, or specialty diagnostic roles.

A day on the job

Here's what the work often looks like:

• Diagnosing problems in engines, brakes, transmissions, and electrical or hydraulic systems
• Performing preventive maintenance and inspections on trucks, buses, and equipment
• Repairing or overhauling diesel engines and components
• Using diagnostic computers and shop tools
• Keeping accurate service records

Paying for your diploma

Riverland's tuition is among the lowest in Minnesota, and there are several ways to make it more affordable, including grants, scholarships, payment plans, and work-study jobs.

View current scholarships and deadlines ›

Last Updated: April 28, 2026