Current Program

Graduates of the Diesel and Related Technology program are well paid and have a diversified selection of areas to specialize in. In recent years the demand has exceeded supply of qualified graduates. Students, who learn to understand, diagnose and repair electric and fuel induction systems, gain skills in overhaul and tune-up procedures as well as knowledge of basic shop practices, heavy duty clutch, transmissions, drive lines, differentials, air brakes, diesel emission controls and electronic engines. They enroll in the program for retraining or upgrading job skills, to obtain a degree or a certificate, and to earn more money in their profession. Many changes have occurred that have affected course offerings in recent years, including changes in technology, the environment, population, economic conditions, students' basic skill levels, college budget conditions, student interests and facility needs.

Degrees and Certificates - An Associate in Science and a Certificate of Completion are offered.

Personnel - The program employs two full-time faculty and one part-time faculty.

Teaching Methodologies - Lecture/lab, lecture/demonstration and lab are the most frequently used methods of instruction, with some lecture alone being used.

Technology - No online courses or other methods of distance education are used at this time.

Equipment - Equipment in immediate need of repair or replacement includes a drill press, chassis and engine stands, display stands, an alternator tester, a hydraulic press, several newer transmissions and engines, fuel injection test equipment, ABS air brake board, trucks, and shop and audio-visual equipment.

Facilities - The classroom needs a roof and the office is too small.

Future Program

The program will need to adapt to changing conditions in the future, including curriculum development, changes in technology and teaching methods, student academic preparation, different facilities and equipment, and changes in the college's recruiting strategies. It is expected that future coursework will need to include more study of electronics. It is expected that enrollment in the program will increase at the same rate as overall college enrollment in both the mid term and long term. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - No additional degrees or certificates are planned.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - Teaching methods will likely expand as electronic instructional devices are introduced to the classroom.

Technology - Some lecture courses might be converted to online or distance education technology.

Equipment - In the next five years the following equipment needs replaced or needs to be purchased new: hot tanks, drill press, electronic engines and training aids, AV equipment and a sound system.

Facilities - The classroom needs to be larger, and the program needs a fuel injection test lab. Additional storage facilities are needed as well.

Staff Development - Faculty need six-week or similar industry peer co-worker classes to be able to spend time with industry instructors on-site, as well as activities designed to promote service learning strategies for faculty and students.

Special Recommendation

The department should review its curriculum in light of new technologies and alternative delivery methods available to ensure the program continues to meet student demand and community needs.