An Overview of Natural Gas Engine Maintenance and Repair School
February 19, 2019
Are you interested in becoming a diesel technician? Lurleen B. Wallace Community College offers a robust Diesel and Heavy Equipment Mechanics program for those who are interested in working on large engines found in farm equipment, construction equipment and semi tractors. Recently, we added a natural gas component to our program to teach students how to work on natural gas engines. This is just one of the many ways that we keep our students prepared for the modern workforce.
Let’s learn more about the changing diesel industry and how LBWCC will prepare you for a successful diesel technician career.
Employers Give Preference to Trained Candidates
If you enjoy taking apart engines, a diesel mechanic is a great career path to pursue. Employment for diesel technicians is expected to grow by 9 percent through 2026. As of 2017, the median annual wage for diesel technicians was $46,360. The top 10 percent in this industry earned more than $69,870.
Traditionally, only a high school education or equivalent was required to become a diesel mechanic. However, this is changing, as employers are increasingly preferring applicants with formal training in diesel engine repair. Industry certification is also important.
In our diesel program, students can expect to learn how to:
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Disassemble diesel engines
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Install ignition systems
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Lubricate moving parts
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Repair undercarriages
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Replace pistons and bearings
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Replace gears and valves
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Replace steering and suspension components
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Replace transmissions and parts
LBWCC Only Two-Year College to Offer Natural Gas Engine Training
Not only do employers prefer candidates with formal training, but also they will be looking for candidates with natural gas engine training. To prepare our students for the future, we have added a natural gas engine training component to our curriculum. Large fleets, such as FedEx and UPS, have already started using natural gas engines in their trucks because they are cleaner and less costly to fuel.
As part of our curriculum, students have the opportunity to work on large engines fueled by natural gas. LBWCC is the only two-year college in Alabama that offers the natural gas component to our large engine repair and maintenance training. We strongly believe that our students will have the edge over others because of this added experience.
LBWCC offers training in the latest nationally recognized certifications and has an 88 percent job placement rate. We prepare our students for a successful future in diesel engine repair. To learn more about our Diesel and Heavy Equipment Mechanics program, visit LBWCC.edu.
