Search | Menu If you want to skip general education classes and get things moving again, the Diesel Medium and Heavy Truck Technician program is for you.
Financial Aid Available-
Program Overview
The Diesel Medium and Heavy Truck Technician program will prepare you for entry-level employment as a diesel truck technician working in a truck dealership, fleet maintenance or an independent repair shop.
This technical diploma program is ideal for those interested in hands-on training without general education coursework.
Diesel Heavy and Medium Truck Coursework
As a student in this four-semester program, you will learn to diagnose, service and repair the following:
- Diesel engines and fuel systems
- After-treatment and emission systems
- Electrical and electronic systems
- Steering and suspension systems
- Air and hydraulic brake systems
- Drivetrain systems
- Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems
- Hydraulic systems
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
- Work on medium and heavy-duty trucks and trailers in a shop environment
The program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation at the highest level of accreditation, Master Truck Service Technology. Program faculty and staff are ASE Certified as Master Medium-Heavy Truck Technicians, Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialists and Truck Equipment Technicians.
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.
Class curriculum is designed and reviewed with input from local employers to ensure the courses get you the real-world skills you need to be successful in the industry.
Program Details
Madison College designed the program for individuals entering the field and those already working in it. Students attend classes in person, full or part-time, at the Madison-Truax campus.
Level up!
As a Madison College Diesel Medium and Heavy Truck 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.
The diesel engine repair class provides hands-on experience in maintaining, servicing and repairing diesel engines and engine support systems. 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 Semester10-412-137Preventive 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 Semester10-412-110Metalworking 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 credits10-412-155Heavy Duty Drivetrains
This course prepares the student with the knowledge and skills needed to adjust, diagnose, maintain, service and repair heavy duty drivetrains found on trucks and construction equipment.4 credits10-412-164Brake and Suspension Systems
Prepares the student with the knowledge and skills needed to adjust, diagnose, service and repair heavy duty brakes and suspension systems. Students will also perform vehicle alignment procedures and utilize various alignment equipment.4 creditsThird/Summer Semester10-412-139Vehicle Inspection
This course will provide an overview of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations as they relate to the inspection, repair, and maintenance of commercial motor vehicles. Students will inspect commercial motor vehicles and complete inspection documentation according to the Code of Federal Regulations Title 49, Parts 393, and Appendix A to Part 396.2 creditsFourth 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 Semester10-412-112Mobile 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 credits10-412-184Diesel 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 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
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
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 Medium and Heavy Truck 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
Earning your technical diploma in the Diesel Medium and Heavy Truck Technician program at Madison Area Technical College prepares you for valuable work as a:
- Diesel Medium and Heavy Truck Technician
- Fleet Maintenance Technician
- Fuel Injection Technician
- Alignment Specialist
- Engine Rebuild Specialist
The field offers opportunities for continuous learning and advancement into supervisory positions or specializations, along with the satisfaction of solving complex problems.
With additional education or experience, graduates may find employment as a:
- Service Writer or Manager
- Shop Foreman
- Team Leader
- DOT Inspector
- Factory Service Representative
- Fleet Maintenance Manager
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 9 8 Number of Surveys Sent 9 8 Number of Surveys Returned 4 6 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 4 5 Percent Available for Employment 100.0% 83.3% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 0.0% 16.7% Available for Employment
2024 2025 Graduates Employed 4 5 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 4 5 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0 0 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 0.0% 0.0% Employed - No Response 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.5 3.6 Number of Satisfaction Responses 4 5 Very Satisfied (4) 3 3 Percent Very Satisfied 75.0% 60.0% Satisfied (3) 0 2 Percent Satisfied 0.0% 40.0% Unsatisfied (2) 1 0 Percent Unsatisfied 25.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 4 6 Preparation for Getting a Job 3 1 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 75.0% 16.7% Career Change 0 0 Percent Career Change 0.0% 0.0% Improvement of Existing Skills 1 4 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 25.0% 66.7% Preparation for Further Education 0 1 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% 16.7% Personal Interest 0 0 Percent Personal Interest 0.0% 0.0% Other 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 4 5 Before Enrollment 2 3 Percent Before Enrollment 50.0% 60.0% While Attending the College 1 1 Percent While Attending the College 25.0% 20.0% After Training at the College 1 1 Percent After Training at the College 25.0% 20.0% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 4 5 In College District 4 4 Percent In College District 100.0% 80.0% In Wisconsin, Not in District 0 1 Percent of In Wisconsin 0.0% 20.0% Outside of Wisconsin 0 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 0.0% Salary Trend 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 4 5 Average Monthly Wage $5,205 $5,108 Average Hourly Wage $30.26 $29.70 Average Work Hours per Week 45.5 47.0 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions City of Madison Fleet Technician Gumz Farms Fleet Technician Endeavor Holmen Transport Diesel Mechanic Holmen JX Truck Center Technician DeForest Scott's Construction Shop Maintenance Technician Wisconsin Dells * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
