Search | Menu If you want to skip general education requirements and get things running, the Diesel Heavy Equipment Technician technical diploma program is for you.
Financial Aid Available-
Program Overview
The Diesel Heavy Equipment Technician program will prepare you for entry-level employment as a technician working in a dealership or an independent repair shop.
The broad knowledge of diesel machines offered in the program gives graduates more value in the employment field.
This technical diploma program is ideal for those who are interested in hands-on training without the general education coursework.
Diesel Heavy Equipment Coursework
The Diesel Heavy Equipment program was designed and is reviewed with input from our industry advisory board to ensure you get the skills our local heavy-equipment diesel industry needs most.
This program focuses on equipment used in construction, logging and mining, such as cranes, bulldozers, graders and conveyors.
As a student in this four-semester program, you will learn to diagnose, service and repair:
- Diesel engines and fuel systems
- Hydraulic and hydrostatic systems
- After treatment and emission systems
- Electrical and electronic systems
- Heating and A/C systems
- Power train systems
- Customer repair orders
You will also:
- Learn workplace safety standards
- Develop relationships with industry partners
- Perform preventive maintenance on major diesel systems
- Use current original equipment manufacturer diagnostic software and service information
- Learn effective customer service skills and communication skills
- Develop good time management and professional habits
- Learn to interpret schematic drawings
- Work on diesel equipment in a shop environment
Real-world, Hands-on Learning
Classroom information sharing and demonstrations are immediately followed by practical hands-on activities in a simulated shop environment. You’ll be moving more than sitting.
You’ll learn from industry professionals who guide you through a relevant curriculum that exceeds the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) standards.
This program is accredited by The AED Foundation.
Program Details
Madison College designed the program for individuals entering the field and those already working in it. You can attend full or part-time.
Classes and lab work are in-person at our Madison-Truax campus.
Level up!
As a Madison College Diesel Heavy Equipment Technician student, you'll earn the technical diploma upon completion of the technical study classes. If you choose to continue your education, all your credits will seamlessly transfer into the associate degree program
In-demand, High-paying Jobs
The demand for qualified heavy equipment technicians is high in the Madison College district. In 2023, 544 jobs were posted in the Madison College District, which is projected to grow by 8.3% by 2030.
The diesel lab gives students access to modern equipment and real-world training environments. Explore Diesel Program Options
Compare Madison College's diesel programs and choose the path that best matches your interests and career goals.
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
Pre-Program CourseA grade of C or better in Diesel Shop Skills Fundamentals is required as pre-requisite to courses in the program.10-412-100Diesel Shop Skills Fundamentals
Introduction to shop procedures, safety practices, tools, equipment, and vehicles commonly found in a diesel and heavy equipment facility. Learn about the process for obtaining a Wisconsin Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Conducted in a shop environment.2 creditsFirst Semester10-412-110Metalworking for Heavy-Duty Applications
This course focuses on welding and metal cutting safety as it applies to heavy-duty applications. Students will learn to setup and use welding and cutting equipment to weld and cut a variety of types and thicknesses of materials commonly used in heavy-duty applications. Skill development emphasis will be placed on cutting metal with oxy-fuel and plasma arc methods. Welding techniques and procedures for SMAW and GMAW will also be included. In addition, students will have the opportunity to demonstrate layout procedures and complete fabrication projects.2 credits10-412-137Preventive Maintenance
This course will provide the opportunity to perform preventive maintenance inspections and conduct minor repairs on heavy-duty trucks and equipment.4 credits10-412-144Fundamental Diesel Electrical/Electronics Systems
Theory and laboratory experiences in this course are designed to introduce the student to the diesel electrical/electronic systems used on today's modern trucks and construction equipment. Fundamental theory of electricity and electronics, troubleshooting techniques, use of digital multimeter and current clamp, types of electrical circuits, wiring, components, batteries and the use of wiring diagrams will be covered.3 credits10-412-145Electrical/Electronics Systems Diagnostics
Theory and laboratory experiences in this course are designed to give the student the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose, service, and repair heavy-duty electrical systems found on today's modern trucks and off-road equipment.3 creditsSecond Semester10-412-112Mobile Hydraulics
Prepares the student with the knowledge and skills needed to test, adjust, service, and repair mobile hydraulic systems found on trucks and off-highway equipment. Also included is hydraulic schematic interpretation and tracing oil flow through hydraulic systems. Lab exercises include disassembly and assembly of various hydraulic components.3 credits10-412-113Advanced Hydraulics and Hydrostatics
Students will further inspect, test, service, diagnose, and adjust hydraulic and hydrostatic systems and components used in off-highway equipment. Students will conduct testing and adjustment procedures on load sensing, pressure and flow compensated, and pilot control systems.3 credits10-412-255Off-Highway Powertrain Systems
Teaches students the operation, power flow, service, and repair of off-highway powertrain components such as clutches, torque converters, and various transmissions. Also included are axles, final drives, suspension, and braking systems used in off-highway equipment.3 creditsThird/Summer Semester10-412-190Diesel Equipment Laboratory Experience 1
Students service various trucks, construction and industrial equipment. Emphasizes daily shop operations, procedures and safe work habits. Simulated on-the-job experiences develop and apply students’ knowledge and skills. Prerequisite: all first year courses.1 creditFourth Semester10-412-125Cab Climate Control and Refrigeration Systems
Lectures/labs provide skills to diagnose, maintain and service air conditioning and transport refrigeration equipment found on truck trailers and off-road equipment.3 credits10-412-138Diesel Shop Management
The student will gain the knowledge needed to function in a typical service department setting. The student will learn what it takes to manage a service department, the costs involved in running the department and the day-to-day problems that arise in the service department. General business operational procedures, record keeping and cost effectiveness will also be part of this course.2 credits10-412-175Fuel Systems
This course will include overviews of mechanical and electronic fuel systems and their related components primarily found on diesel engines. Students will diagnose, service, and repair fuel systems equipped on both on-highway and off-highway applications. An overview of the relationship of the fuel system to the aftertreatment system will be discussed. Also included are safe work habits and features of emerging alternative fuel sources.2 credits10-412-177Diesel Engine Diagnostics
Lectures and labs use the latest in diagnostic equipment to evaluate engine performance and diagnose power complaints on mechanical and computer controlled diesel fuel injection systems.3 credits10-412-188Electronic Control Systems
This course provides the student with the experience needed to diagnose and service modern electronic control systems used on trucks and construction equipment. The course includes electronic controlled diesel engines, ABS brake systems, electronic controlled transmissions and other computer controlled electronic vehicle systems.3 creditsFifth Semester10-412-184Diesel Engine Technology
Study in this course will allow the student to develop a basic knowledge of design, construction and operating principles of the diesel engine. Service, maintenance and the types of repairs made on diesel engines and diesel engine support systems will be a major emphasis of the course.2 credits10-412-185Diesel Engine Repair
Teaches students to maintain, service and repair diesel engines and engine support systems. The course also includes precision measuring, failure analysis and parts inspection.4 credits10-412-189Heavy Duty Emission Control Systems
Teaches students to maintain, service, and repair emission control systems found on heavy duty diesel and alternate fueled engines. The course also includes fault diagnosis, failure analysis, and component inspection for reusability.3 credits10-412-355Advanced Off-Highway Electronics and Powertrain Systems
This course will familiarize the student with diagnostic, troubleshooting, and repair techniques specific to off-highway equipment electronic and powertrain systems. Hands-on activities will allow the student to practice and demonstrate diagnostic procedures and repair techniques related to the electronic control systems, powertrain systems, and the operator interface.3 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
- Program capacity: 40 spots each Fall and Spring. It shares this capacity with other programs that have a similar curriculum.
- Estimated Wait Time: No estimated wait time
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this program has a limited capacity:
- Non-district state residents
- May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
- *Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
- Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are offered a place in the program after district and state residents, if there are still spots available. Acceptance into the program is on hold until a month before the semester begins to determine if there is space in the program. Out-of-state residents are not eligible for admission to a program that has a waiting list.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Diesel Heavy Equipment Technician career.
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After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
- Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
- Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
- You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Career Outcomes
Program graduates are qualified for entry-level technician positions, specifically those working on heavy equipment and machines, such as cranes, bulldozers, graders and conveyors. You’ll be prepared for work as a:
- Heavy Equipment Technician
- Field Service Technician
Experience and additional training will allow you to take your diesel career in many directions, finding employment as a:
- Shop Foreman
- Parts Supervisor
- Service Advisor
- Undercarriage Wear Specialist
- Power Generation Field Service Technician
- Industry-related Sales Representative
- Business Owner
- Educational Trainer
