February 19, 2019
East Central Community College in Decatur will offer a new program in Diesel Equipment Technology in Philadelphia beginning in Fall 2019, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The instructional program, which will be located at the previous U.S. Motors plant, will provide students with competencies required to maintain a variety of industrial diesel equipment, including agricultural tractors, commercial trucks, and construction equipment. It will include instruction in inspections, repair, maintenance of engines, power trains, hydraulic systems and other components.
Wayne Eason, ECCC director of Career and Technical Education, said, “We are excited to offer Diesel Equipment Technology at ECCC. Businesses and industries in our district have expressed a great need for these technicians. We look forward to training our future workforce and filling this need with qualified technicians.”
Students can select between several pathways, including a career certificate, technical certificate or an Associate of Applied Science degree.
Coursework will include Fundamentals of Equipment Mechanics, Electrical/Electronic Systems I, II, and III, Hydraulics I, Diesel Systems I, II, and III, Preventive Maintenance and Service, Transportation Power Train, Air Conditioning and Heating Systems, Advanced Brake Systems (Air), Steering and Suspension Systems, and Heavy Equipment Powertrain.
According to recent statistics by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, experienced diesel technicians in the East Central Community College area can earn up to $26.12 per hour or $54,324 annually.
To be considered for the program, prospective students must complete the online ECCC application for admission at www.eccc.edu, and submit all official high school and college transcripts or an official high school equivalency diploma.
For more information, contact Eason at 601-635-6210 or email weason@eccc.edu.
