Although many professional heavy equipment mechanics do not complete a formal education program, gaining experience through on-the-job-training instead, employers prefer to hire employees who have earned a certificate or degree from a heavy equipment mechanic program. Prospective students may find these programs at technical schools, community colleges and vocational institutes.
10 Heavy Equipment Mechanic Schools
These institutions offer heavy equipment mechanic programs.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Undergraduate Tuition (2018-2019) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lansing Community College | Lansing, MI | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | In-district $3,530 In-state $6,680; Out-of-state $9,830 |
| Wake Tech Community College | Raleigh, NC | 2-year, Public | Diploma, Associate's | In-state $2,768; Out-of-state $8,912 |
| Spokane Community College | Spokane, WA | 2-year, Public | Associate's | In-state $3,547; Out-of-state $8,914 |
| Linn-Benton Community College | Albany, OR | 2-year, Public | Associate's | In-state $4,922; Out-of-state $10,991 |
| Central Piedmont Community College | Charlotte, NC | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Diploma | In-state $2,795; Out-of-state $8,936 |
| Southside Virginia Community College | Alberta, VA | 2-year, Public | Certificate | In-state $4,695; Out-of-state $10,623 |
| Lane Community College | Eugene, OR | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Associate's | In-state $4,812; Out-of-state $10,428 |
| Blackhawk Technical College | Janesville, WI | 2-year, Public | Certificate | In-state $4,364; Out-of-state $6,647 |
| Davidson County Community College | Thomasville, NC | 2-year, Public | Certificate, Diploma, Associate's | In-state $2,588; Out-of-state $8,732 |
Sources: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES); School websites
School Selection Criteria
There are several considerations when choosing a heavy equipment mechanic program.
- Length of program can be a factor as certificates take less time to complete than associate's degrees and require fewer, if any, general education courses.
- Hands-on training and previous experience are important hiring requirements for heavy diesel mechanics, so students should choose a program that offers plenty of practical training.
- Costs differ between certificate and associate degree programs, and some programs include different certifications in the cost of tuition.
- Some schools may offer interview and resume preparation assistance for graduates seeking employment.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs give students enough knowledge and training to find an entry-level position as a heavy equipment mechanic.
Associate Degree Programs
Students who wish to earn an associate degree in heavy equipment technology typically earn an Associate of Science, an Associate of Technology or an Associate of Occupational Studies. Most programs focus on fuel, electrical and brake systems, as well as repair, maintenance and analysis of diesel engines. Some programs ready students for national certification in heavy diesel engine emission control and for National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams.
Heavy equipment mechanic programs can give graduates an advantage when seeking employment in this field. The program costs vary widely, depending on the length of the program, and some schools offer tuition discounts to local or in-state students.
