Diesel technology is a field that continues to grow in importance, as the demand for skilled technicians who can repair and maintain diesel engines and equipment increases. Illinois, being a major hub for transportation and industry, has a high demand for diesel technicians. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, you'll want to find the best diesel tech schools in Illinois that can provide you with the training and education you need to succeed.
What to Look for in a Diesel Tech School
When searching for a diesel tech school in Illinois, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:
- Accreditation: Look for schools that are accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) or the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards.
- Curriculum: A good diesel tech program should cover a range of topics, including diesel engine repair, transmission and brake systems, electrical systems, and hydraulic systems.
- Hands-on training: Look for schools that offer hands-on training and provide students with access to modern diesel engines and equipment.
- Experienced instructors: Instructors should have industry experience and be certified by organizations such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
- Job placement assistance: Many schools offer job placement assistance to help graduates find employment.
Top Diesel Tech Schools in Illinois
Here are some of the top diesel tech schools in Illinois:
- College of DuPage: Located in Glen Ellyn, IL, College of DuPage offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Diesel Technology. The program is accredited by NATEF and provides students with hands-on training in diesel engine repair, transmission and brake systems, and electrical systems.
- Lincoln Tech: With locations in Melrose Park and Skokie, IL, Lincoln Tech offers a Diesel and Truck Service Technology program that provides students with training in diesel engine repair, transmission and brake systems, and electrical systems.
- Universal Technical Institute: Located in Lisle, IL, Universal Technical Institute offers a Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology program that provides students with training in diesel engine repair, transmission and brake systems, and hydraulic systems.
- Southwestern Illinois College: Located in Belleville, IL, Southwestern Illinois College offers an AAS degree in Diesel Technology. The program is accredited by NATEF and provides students with hands-on training in diesel engine repair, transmission and brake systems, and electrical systems.
- McHenry County College: Located in Crystal Lake, IL, McHenry County College offers an AAS degree in Diesel Technology. The program is accredited by NATEF and provides students with hands-on training in diesel engine repair, transmission and brake systems, and electrical systems.
Diesel Tech School Locations in Illinois
Diesel tech schools can be found throughout Illinois, from the Chicago area to downstate Illinois. Here are some locations where you can find diesel tech schools:
- Chicago: Lincoln Tech, Universal Technical Institute
- Melrose Park: Lincoln Tech
- Skokie: Lincoln Tech
- Glen Ellyn: College of DuPage
- Lisle: Universal Technical Institute
- Belleville: Southwestern Illinois College
- Crystal Lake: McHenry County College
- Springfield: Lincoln Land Community College
- Peoria: Illinois Central College
Diesel Tech Job Outlook in Illinois
The job outlook for diesel technicians in Illinois is strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
In Illinois, the median annual salary for diesel service technicians and mechanics was $48,610 in May 2020. The top-paying industries for diesel technicians in Illinois were:
- Federal government: $64,110
- Local government: $59,610
- Heavy and civil engineering construction: $58,910
- Highway, street, and bridge construction: $57,510
- Automotive repair and maintenance: $54,810
Conclusion
If you're interested in pursuing a career in diesel technology, Illinois has many top-notch schools that can provide you with the training and education you need to succeed. From the Chicago area to downstate Illinois, there are many diesel tech schools that offer hands-on training and provide students with access to modern diesel engines and equipment. With a strong job outlook and competitive salaries, a career as a diesel technician can be a rewarding and lucrative choice.
Gallery of Diesel Tech Schools in Illinois
What is the average salary for a diesel technician in Illinois?
+The median annual salary for diesel service technicians and mechanics in Illinois was $48,610 in May 2020.
What is the job outlook for diesel technicians in Illinois?
+Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
What are the top-paying industries for diesel technicians in Illinois?
+The top-paying industries for diesel technicians in Illinois were federal government, local government, heavy and civil engineering construction, highway, street, and bridge construction, and automotive repair and maintenance.