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Diesel Power – Light Truck Technology

Overview
Curriculum
Outcomes
Faculty
Cost
Scholarships
Requirements

Overview

careers

Service Technician
Sales
Mechanic
Service Manager
Field Technician

Diesel Power Technology is a great way to get your hands on some of today’s high-powered, light duty vehicles. Students enrolled in the Light Truck option will develop skills to diagnose, repair, and overhaul trucks sized Class Six and below. The first-year core curriculum provides you with the fundamentals of diesel technology before you move into the specifics of light truck maintenance and repair.

Through hands-on training in a state-of-the-art diesel lab, you will have access to various makes and models of trucks to give you valuable real-life experience working on engines and maintaining these workhorse machines. You will also learn how to diagnose and repair air and hydraulic brake systems, electrical systems, drivetrains, and chassis. Essential units like over-the-road diagnostics, preventative maintenance, transportation refrigeration, and GPS/GIS systems are also covered. Classroom instruction, combined with lab projects, will better prepare you for the workforce. As part of the program, you will also complete an internship at a job site related to the program. You can even consider a third-year option to earn a second AAS degree in our Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology.

Graduates of this option will be ready for careers as entry-level technicians in the transportation industry. Career opportunities include positions like service technician, parts person, parts manager, service/warranty writer, or customer service/sales representative at a dealership.

Note: Students are required to use a laptop or notebook computer for this program. Students must bring their own device, which must meet Mitchell Tech specifications, or may purchase one from Mitchell Tech.

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Curriculum

Award: AAS Degree

Semesters

First Semester

DPT101 > Intro to Diesel Engines3 credits

DPT105 > Service Fund and Preventative MaintThis course provides the student with an introduction to the basic principles and working environment of a service center. Topics to be explored include: the proper use of hand and basic power tool, the use of precision measuring tools, test equipment and specialized tools, safe and proper use of lifting equipment and large shop tools such as hydraulic presses and tire equipment, as well as general shop safety, the language and vocabulary related to the Agricultural Equipment, Light Truck, customer service, and writing of work orders. 3 credits

DPT120 > Diesel Engines Control SystemsThis course will introduce the student to the diesel engine and the mechanical control systems commonly used in their operation. Students will learn the design and operating principles which make diesels different from spark ignition engines and develop a diagnostic technique for working with them based on this knowledge. Internal components, wear tolerances, operating characteristics and fuel delivery systems for the common diesel engine brands utilized in the ag equipment industry will be explored. Safety practices, tool selection, component identification and failure mode analysis will be fundamental topics in this course.3 credits

DPT130 > Electrical Electronic SystemsCourse is based around general electrical theory and the principles of DC and AC current operating in modern Agricultural Equipment. Topics to be explored include: current flow, Ohm’s law, voltage, amperage, circuit types, test equipment, symbols used in electrical diagrams, and reading and understanding electrical diagrams in technical publications. Electrical and Electronic systems and controller networks and diagnostic procedures will also be discussed.2 credits

OSHA100 > OSHA 10 GeneralAn overview of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards focusing on hazard recognition and injury and illness prevention. The 10-hour general program is intended to provide entry-level workers with awareness of hazards in and around the work site. Emphasis is placed on recognition and prevention and helps create a culture of safety. Upon successful completion the student will receive OSHA 10 certification.1 credit

CIS105 > Introduction to Computers3 credits

SSS100 > Student SuccessProvides a foundation for gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for college success. Students will learn to make a successful transition to higher education by setting up a pattern of success that will last the rest of their lives. Students will define goals and develop thinking skills, learning strategies and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success.1 credit

> Math Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours19 credits

Second Semester

AGT103 > Machinery Management2 credits

DPT107 > Introduction to HydraulicsFundamental theories of fluid dynamics and basic laws of physics governing the non-compressible nature of liquids will be the foundation of this course. Pascal’s law, Bernoulli’s principle and fluid mechanics will be explored utilizing modern hydraulic engineering trainers allowing students to build models which demonstrate the principles and theories discussed during the lecture portion of this course. Component identification, design limits of components as well as expected performance based on load, flow and pressure will be key elements of the course. Open and closed center systems will be explored in depth.3 credits

DPT115 > Intro to PowertrainBasic information relating to traditional dry and wet clutch technologies, basic gearbox designs and hydrostatic drive systems. Basic information on all types of bearing, belts and chain drive systems. An understanding of theories relevant to bearing load capacities, horsepower limitations and drive engagement will be covered and training on diagnosis. Students will be introduced to current technology being utilized on major agricultural equipment, lawn equipment and over the road truck and trailers equipment.3 credits

DPT121 > Adv. Diesel Engine and Control SysStudents will be able to experience firsthand the changes that have occurred within the diesel engine industry due to the advancements in microcomputer and electronics technology. HPCR (High Pressure, Common Rail) fuel systems, HEUI injectors, as well as their respective control systems, will be discussed in detail. Fuel and engine monitoring, sensor operation, variable displacement turbochargers and other factors relevant to emissions will be focal points of this course. The student will develop basic diagnostic procedures and an entry level understanding of DTC information which is fundamental to modern diesel engine failure diagnosis. At the conclusion of this course the student will have the opportunity to complete the ASE Diesel Diagnostics Certification exam.3 credits

DPT161 > Air Cond. Service FundamentalsStudents will develop the skills and techniques necessary to diagnose and repair mobile automotive-style air conditioning systems found on today’s modern agricultural equipment. Theories of system operation, components and flow patterns will be discussed. Students will have the opportunity to earn their mobile air conditioning service certification during this course.3 credits

DPT280 > Successful Service Management1 credit

> Social Science Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours18 credits

Third Semester

DPT290 > Internship6 credits

Total Semester Hours6 credits

Fourth Semester

DPT231 > Electrical Electric Diagnostics IIStudents will utilize “on-board” diagnostics systems as well as hand held equipment and laptop computers to access and diagnose DTC information from tractors and harvesting equipment. Proficiency with technical data, DVOM operation and component location and identification will be fundamental aspects of this course. Common theories and operational principles learned in previous courses relating to electrical and electronic components, their testing and circuit diagnostics will be revisited. Examples of these components would be potentiometers, hall-effect switches, thermistors, variable resistance sensors and relays. Students will develop their electrical/electronic diagnostic abilities by completing multiple activities designed to hone their critical thinking skills. This course is an active diagnostic lab course.3 credits

DPT250 > Light Truck DrivetrainsThis course is based on general theory of light and medium truck drive trains. Topics explored will include manual and automatic transmissions; transfer cases; and differentials. Also explored will be electronically controlled transmissions; maintenance and repair; and future applications of drive train systems and subsystems.3 credits

DPT252 > Air and Hydraulic Brakes SystemsThis course is based upon general air and hydraulic brake theory and operation. Topics will include hydraulic brake systems, air brake systems, anti-lock braking systems, electronic braking systems, as well as general maintenance and troubleshooting. The importance of a properly operating braking system in light and heavy truck applications will be discussed in detail.3 credits

DPT260 > Light Truck Steering and SuspensionThis course provides students with the knowledge and hands-on skills required to inspect, diagnose, service, and repair automotive suspension, steering, wheel, tire, and alignment systems. Students will learn industry-standard safety practices, proper tool usage, and environmental procedures while developing an understanding of chassis system design and operation. Course topics include suspension system fundamentals, steering system components and operation, front and rear suspension designs, hydraulic power steering systems, wheels and tires, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), wheel bearings, and wheel alignment principles and procedures. Students will perform inspections, measurements, component replacement, preventive maintenance, and diagnostic testing using manufacturer service information and professional service equipment. Emphasis is placed on accurate diagnosis, proper repair procedures, and verification of repairs through testing and alignment measurements. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to identify suspension and steering system concerns, perform chassis system repairs, service wheels and tires, complete wheel alignments, and diagnose ride, handling, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) conditions in accordance with industry standards.3 credits

PAT102 > Principles of GPS/GISThis course introduces students to the fundamental principles of GPS and their application in precision agriculture and Geographic Information System (GIS) applications. It will cover various aspects of GPS technology, including corrections, constellations, and their primary uses in the industry, alongside essential GPS terminology and its relevance to professional practice. After building a solid foundation in GPS technology, the focus will transition to the utilization of GIS operations within the agricultural sector, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to leverage these technologies in enhancing farming efficiency and productivity.2 credits

TRAN100 > Industrial Transportation CDLInstruction in commercial transportation. Opportunities are provided for obtaining a Class A commercial drivers license. Arrangements are made for taking the test(s) required by the state. A Class A CDL is a requirement for graduation from several programs. A valid South Dakota driver’s license is required in order to complete the CDL training course. For students enrolling in a two-year program, this course must be completed by the end of their first year. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course. Please note: Students are required to show proof of a valid Class A CDL by the end of the 10th day of the semester in which the student is enrolled in order to drop this class.1 credit

> Written Communications Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours18 credits

Fifth Semester

DPT207 > Advanced Hydraulics3 credits

DPT251 > Light Truck Integrated ElectronicsThis course is designed around electronically controlled diesel engine systems and subsystems. Students will examine in detail the relationship of CAN BUS and LIN networks and how they work with related diesel systems in a vehicle. A special emphasis will be placed on the electrical components and networks used in modern diesel emissions systems.2 credits

DPT253 > Chassis and DOT Inspections2 credits

DPT261 > Over the Road Equipment DiagnosticsFundamental principles of parts failure analysis will be examined in this course. Concepts such as CAN BUS and LIN controller diagnostics along with a general knowledge of troubleshooting and repair will be developed. Students will be taught how to utilize available technical manuals and guides, along with vehicle specific computer controlled diagnostic systems. In the shop setting, critical thinking skills will be used to develop and implement a troubleshooting course of action and repair.3 credits

DPT262 > Transportation Refrigeration1 credit

WLD102 > Basic Welding2 credits

> Behavioral Science Elective3 credits

Total Semester Hours16 credits

Requirements

Computer Requirements

This program allows you to bring your own laptop as long as it meets these minimum specifications:

Processor – Intel Core i Series (i3, i5, i7) or AMD Ryzen
Operating System – Windows 10
Webcam Recommended
Memory – 4 GB or more
Internal Storage – 64 GB or more
Microsoft Office is available at no charge as long as enrolled at Mitchell Tech
NO APPLE/MAC COMPUTERS

Outcomes

At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

Apply safe, efficient, and effective work practices in a manner compatible with OSHA and EPA requirements, as well as the agricultural equipment manufacture and repair industry expectations.
Demonstrate the effective use of internet-based resources, industry repair manuals, service, and parts literature in the repair and maintenance of light duty to medium duty trucks, diesel engines, drive trains, hydraulic systems and electronic equipment.
Demonstrate the industry standard application of selected specialized tools for maintenance, repair, diagnostic, and assembly of equipment.
Apply preventative maintenance concepts to light duty to medium duty trucks, diesel engines, drive trains, and hydraulic systems.
Demonstrate basic diagnostic and repair concepts applied to light duty and medium duty trucks, diesel engines, drive trains, hydraulic systems, power trains, and chassis systems.
Demonstrate basic diagnostic and repair concepts applied to selected electrical components and systems of light duty to medium duty trucks, diesel engines, drive trains, hydraulic systems, and equipment.
Interact effectively by displaying flexibility, honesty, teamwork, respect, and sensitivity for customers.
Communicate effectively through active listening, in oral, written, and electronic format with customers, coworkers, and supervisors.
Assume responsibility for continuing education requirements for new technologies, industry compliance, and career advancement.

Annual Program Review

Check out the 2025-26 Annual Program Review for information on how faculty ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program.

Faculty

Jaron Helstein

Instructor

Ryan Anderson

Instructor

Noah Munsen

Program Coordinator / Instructor

Cost

Other Required Costs

CDL $1,500
Books / Tools (estimated) $7,531

Scholarships

Mitchell Tech offers a variety of scholarships to qualified applicants. The application period runs from October 1 through November 1 for current students and January 1 through March 31 for incoming students.

Other Related Programs

If you’re interested in Diesel Power – Light Truck Technology, you might also be interested in these other agriculture & transportation programs at Mitchell Tech.

Diesel Power – Light Truck Technology

Overview

careers

Service Technician

Sales

Mechanic

Service Manager

Field Technician

Curriculum

First Semester

Second Semester

Third Semester

Fourth Semester

Fifth Semester

Requirements

Computer Requirements

Outcomes

Faculty

Cost

Other Required Costs

Scholarships

Other Related Programs

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Powersports & Marine Technology

Precision Ag Technology

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