Arizona is a fantastic place to start your career as a diesel mechanic. With industries relying heavily on diesel-powered vehicles and machinery, skilled technicians are in high demand.
To meet this need, Arizona boasts several reputable schools offering top-notch diesel mechanic programs.
Here’s a list of the best 10 diesel mechanic schools in Arizona, along with the programs they offer, certifications, and key details.
Related: 5 Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Alaska: Your Comprehensive Guide
Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Arizona
Central Arizona College – Coolidge
Central Arizona College offers both a Diesel Technology Certificate and an AAS degree program.
Students gain hands-on experience with diesel engines, hydraulics, and heavy equipment.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology Certificate, AAS Degree
- Certifications: Associate Degree, ASE preparation
- Location: Coolidge, AZ
- Website: www.centralaz.edu
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) – Avondale
UTI Avondale is a leading technical school offering a comprehensive Diesel Technology Program.
The program includes hands-on training and theoretical knowledge to prepare students for real-world challenges.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology Program
- Certifications: Entry-level certifications, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Avondale, AZ
- Website: www.uti.edu
Gateway Community College – Phoenix
Gateway Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Diesel Technology.
Students benefit from modern equipment and experienced instructors.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology AAS Degree
- Certifications: Associate Degree, ASE exam preparation
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Website: www.gatewaycc.edu
Pima Community College – Tucson
Pima Community College provides a Diesel Technology Certificate program.
This program focuses on teaching students the fundamentals of diesel engine repair and maintenance.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology Certificate
- Certifications: Entry-level certifications, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Website: www.pima.edu
Yavapai College – Prescott
Yavapai College offers a Diesel Technician Certificate program that emphasizes hands-on training and small class sizes.
This program is ideal for those interested in heavy-duty truck systems.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technician Certificate
- Certifications: Diesel Technician Certificate, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Prescott, AZ
- Website: www.yc.edu
East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) – Mesa
EVIT’s Diesel Technology Program is tailored for high school students and adult learners.
It covers essential skills like heavy equipment maintenance and repair.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology Program
- Certifications: Entry-level certifications, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Mesa, AZ
- Website: www.evit.com
Arizona Automotive Institute (AAI) – Glendale
AAI offers a Diesel-Heavy Truck program designed to train students in maintaining and repairing diesel engines and heavy-duty trucks.
- Programs Offered: Diesel-Heavy Truck Program
- Certifications: Entry-level diesel certifications, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Glendale, AZ
- Website: www.aai.edu
Maricopa Skill Center – Phoenix
Maricopa Skill Center specializes in providing vocational training, including diesel technology programs.
Students benefit from hands-on experience and access to modern diagnostic tools.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology Training
- Certifications: Entry-level certifications, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Website: www.maricopa.edu
South Mountain Community College – Phoenix
South Mountain Community College offers a program focused on diesel engine diagnostics and repair.
It’s a great option for students looking to enter the industry quickly.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Engine Diagnostics and Repair
- Certifications: Entry-level certifications, ASE exam preparation
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Website: www.southmountaincc.edu
Cochise College – Douglas
Cochise College provides a Diesel Technology Certificate program focusing on troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines.
- Programs Offered: Diesel Technology Certificate
- Certifications: Entry-level certifications, ASE certification preparation
- Location: Douglas, AZ
- Website: www.cochise.edu
Related: 5 Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Alabama: Programs, Requirements, and Certifications
Programs Offered by Diesel Mechanic Schools in Arizona
The programs offered by these schools typically cover:
- Diesel engine systems and diagnostics
- Electrical and electronic systems
- Fuel systems and emissions
- Heavy-duty truck repair and maintenance
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
Diesel Mechanic Requirements in Arizona
To become a diesel mechanic in Arizona, you’ll need the following:
- High School Diploma or GED: Basic educational background is required.
- Formal Training: completion of a diesel mechanic program at an accredited school.
- Certifications: While not mandatory, certifications such as ASE enhance employability.
- Hands-on Experience: Most schools provide internships or lab-based training.
Certifications for Diesel Mechanics in Arizona
Diesel mechanics in Arizona can earn the following certifications to boost their careers:
- ASE Certifications: Covering engine repair, electrical systems, and more.
- EPA Certification: necessary for handling refrigerants.
- Manufacturer-specific certifications: offered by brands like Cummins and Caterpillar.
Diesel Mechanic Salary Arizona
The average annual salary for diesel mechanics in Arizona is $54,500, with experienced technicians earning up to $65,000+. Larger cities such as Phoenix and Tucson tend to offer higher pay due to demand.
People Also Search For
- How long does it take to become a diesel mechanic in Arizona?
Most certificate programs take 6-12 months, while associate degree programs require about 2 years. - Is ASE certification required to work as a diesel mechanic in Arizona?
No, but it’s highly recommended for better job prospects. - What industries in Arizona hire diesel mechanics?
Diesel mechanics are in demand in industries such as transportation, construction, agriculture, and mining.
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