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Program Overview


Diesel Technology is a practical and in-depth technical program designed to provide you with the skills necessary to successfully gain employment as a diesel technician. The majority of the program is devoted to training that is necessary to attain employment in a farm, industrial, or truck dealership. The curriculum is also structured to allow you to seek job opportunities in industrial/heavy equipment, general diesel repair or as a farm mechanic.

You are exposed to a wide variety of situations, including use of electromechanical testing equipment, diesel calibration instruments, and a variety of farm power machinery. You will study all phases of heavy-duty truck and tractor repair, including electrical systems, various transmissions, suspensions, braking, and other related areas. Instruction will also include complete engine overhaul, diesel, gasoline, and natural gas fuel systems, hydraulic systems and air-conditioning. In addition, the program offers courses in biodiesel technology.

As repair methods change, the curriculum is continually updated to provide instruction on the latest tools, equipment and new job procedures as well as instruction on the older models and methods. Learning includes both shop and classroom situations with the majority of time devoted to actual hands-on experience. Applied shop instruction involves individualized live work on customers’ truck and farm equipment.

*Students in this program are eligible for the Kansas Promise Act Scholarship.

Degree and Certificate Options


Associate of Applied Science (or Technical Certificate)

Learning Outcomes


Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to:  

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of safety practices, tools, fasteners, and fittings related to diesel mechanics.
  2. Apply the theory of diesel mechanics to specific jobs.
  3. OSHA 10-hour general industry training
  4. Diagnosis and repair electrical / electronic systems.
  5. Diagnosis and repair charging, starting, and ignition systems.
  6. Diagnosis and repair fuel systems.
  7. Diagnosis performance problems and perform tune-up.
  8. Diagnosis and repair heating and air-conditioning systems.
  9. Diagnosis and repair hydraulic systems.
  10. Diagnosis, repair, and rebuild small engines.
  11. Perform preventive maintenance checks and service.
  12. Diagnose, repair and rebuild large engines.
  13. Diagnosis and repair valve systems.
  14. Diagnosis and repair cooling and lubrication systems.
  15. Diagnose and repair intake, exhaust and emission systems
  16. Diagnosis and repair power train, clutches, transmission, and final drives.
  17. Diagnosis and repair suspension and steering systems.
  18. Diagnosis and repair brake systems.
  19. Demonstrate effective reading, writing, speaking, listening, time management, and mathematical skills.
  20. Demonstrate effective workplace skills.
  21. Complete all tasks of Specialization/Occupational Experience unit.
  22. Demonstrate effective computer skills and knowledge.

Career Outcomes in
Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology


Projected Salary
$25,000– $45,000 per year

Job Placement

In 2020, the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology placed 87% of its graduates.

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Estimated Costs

Download the Estimated Program Costs Worksheet

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Schedule Tour

Find out more information about touring Fort Hays Tech | Northwest

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Faculty

View the program faculty

Faculty & Advisors


Jason Cook
Oura Garrett
Josh Simmons
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Admissions Checklist


Below is a list of items Fort Hays Tech | Northwest’s Admissions Team will need prior to your acceptance into the Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology program.

  • A Fort Hays Tech | Northwest Application Completed and Submitted

  • High School or GED Transcript Submitted

  • (If Applicable) College Transcript Submitted

  • ACT or AccuPlacer Scores Submitted (AccuPlacer Testing can be scheduled on-site at the Fort Hays Tech | Northwest campus)

Required items can be submitted in person at the Fort Hays Tech | Northwest campus, via postal mail addressed to: Fort Hays Tech | Northwest Admissions, 1209 Harrison, Goodland, KS, or through email communications with admissions@fhnw.edu.

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Advisory Committee


Greg Lindberg
Gene Overmiller
Mike Leerer
Steve Jueneman
Tanner Kerchal
David Oren
John Yost
James Rayhmer
Damon Glover
Stacy Lemmon
James Cox
Robert Webb
Rick Strammel