When it comes to diesel technologies, Jeff Gardner knows his way around an engine and a classroom. Gardner recently began as LLCC’s program director of diesel technologies, bringing 23 years of teaching experience to the college.
“I also worked as a service technician, so I have over a decade of hands-on experience,” says Gardner. 

LLCC’s new diesel technologies program will launch in the fall of 2023 and offer a two-year associate in applied science degree. The program will prepare students to become service technicians in three main industries: agriculture, construction and highway truck/transportation.

“There’s a big demand for diesel workers. With workers retiring, LLCC will be training the next generation of diesel technicians,” says Gardner.

Diesel technicians earn between $46,000-$60,000 a year, and employers are facing a shortage of skilled workers.
Roland Machinery Co. is headquartered in Springfield, with 17 locations in five states. Dan Smith, vice president of product support, says the company consistently has openings for diesel technicians at every location.

“It’s been increasingly difficult to find good, qualified technicians,” said Smith. “If you’re a good technician, you’re employed. The need for heavy equipment technicians will continue to grow over the years.”
Rush Truck Centers is one of several industries looking for entry-level technicians to hire and train.

“Trucking is the backbone of this country,” says Jason Courville, general manager. “The demand for technicians is increasing at a higher rate than those entering this field, making it the ideal time to join the industry.”
Diesel technicians work on a wide variety of equipment including tractors, trucks, buses, bulldozers and more.

“Technicians are extremely vital to our business,” says Brian Sims, aftermarket manager at Sloan Implement, which provides parts and services for ag manufacturers. “We are constantly working to get students interested in agricultural mechanics.”

Students will develop the skills needed for a job through a combination of hands-on learning and classroom instruction. Classes will cover diesel engines, hydraulics and electronic systems. In the second year of the program, students will have two paid, eight-week internships at local repair shops.

“Diesel machinery is critical to our way of life. The food we eat, the buildings we work and live in, the furniture we sit on, everything around us was impacted by some sort of diesel machine,” says Gardner.

Students interested in the diesel technologies program can email Gardner.