10 Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Louisiana: Programs, Costs, and Salaries

Louisiana, known for its rich culture, Cajun cuisine, and bustling transportation hubs, is also a prime location for those looking to become diesel mechanics.

With the state’s major industries relying on trucks, ships, and heavy equipment, skilled diesel technicians are in high demand.

If you’re looking for the best diesel mechanic schools in Louisiana, you’re in the right place. From hands-on training programs to online certifications, Louisiana offers several options to kickstart your career.

Anywhere you are in the state, this guide will help you find the right program, covering costs, requirements, and accredited schools.

Let’s dive into the top diesel mechanic programs in Louisiana!

Contents

1 How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Louisiana

1.1 1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

1.2 2. Enroll in an Accredited Diesel Mechanic School

1.3 3. Gain Hands-On Experience

1.4 4. Get Certified (Optional but Recommended)

1.5 5. Find a Job and Continue Learning

2 Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Louisiana

2.1 1. South Louisiana Community College

2.2 2. Louisiana Delta Community College

2.3 3. Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College

2.4 4. Baton Rouge Community College

2.5 5. Louisiana State University Shreveport

2.6 6. River Parishes Community College

2.7 7. Fletcher Technical Community College

2.8 8. Louisiana Technical College

2.9 9. Delgado Community College

2.10 10. Central Louisiana Technical Community College

3 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

3.1 1. Can You Be a Mechanic Without Qualifications?

3.2 2. How Much Does a Diesel Mechanic Make in Louisiana?

3.3 3. How Much Does Diesel Mechanic School Cost in Louisiana?

3.4 4. What Are the Requirements for Diesel Mechanic Schools in Louisiana?

3.5 5. Are There Online Diesel Mechanic Programs in Louisiana?

4 Conclusion

5 Other Articles

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Louisiana

Becoming a diesel mechanic in Louisiana is a rewarding career path, especially with the state’s reliance on transportation, agriculture, and heavy equipment industries.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting your journey:

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

Most diesel mechanic schools in Louisiana require a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong math, science, and technical skills will be helpful in understanding mechanical concepts.

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2. Enroll in an Accredited Diesel Mechanic School

Choosing a diesel mechanic school in Louisiana is the next step.

Schools of the best choice have been listed and explained below.

3. Gain Hands-On Experience

Many diesel mechanic schools in Louisiana incorporate real-world training through internships, co-op programs, or externships.

This hands-on experience is essential to develop technical skills and build connections with potential employers.

4. Get Certified (Optional but Recommended)

Although not always required, earning certifications like ASE can boost your job prospects. ASE certification proves your expertise and can lead to higher-paying positions.

5. Find a Job and Continue Learning

Diesel mechanics are in high demand in Louisiana, with opportunities in trucking companies, construction firms, and industrial equipment servicing.

Entry-level positions offer valuable experience, and continuing education or specialization in heavy-duty engines can lead to better job prospects.

By following these steps, you can build a successful career as a diesel mechanic in Louisiana!

Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Louisiana

1. South Louisiana Community College

Location: 1125 Lafayette St, Lafayette, LA 70501

Program Details: Offers a Diesel Powered Equipment Technology program with hands-on training in diagnosing and repairing diesel engines for agricultural, construction, and transportation industries.
Website: South Louisiana Community College Diesel Program

2. Louisiana Delta Community College

Location: 7500 Millhaven Rd, Monroe, LA 71203

Program Details: Provides a Technical Diploma in Diesel Powered Equipment Technology. Students gain practical skills for engine disassembly, fuel systems, electrical systems, and chassis repair.
Website: Louisiana Delta Community College Diesel Program

3. Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College

Location: 7500 Hwy 80, Minden, LA 71055

Program Details: This school offers a Diesel Powered Equipment Technology program with specialized instruction, focusing on the maintenance and repair of diesel engines, including tools and safety practices.
Website: Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College Diesel Program

4. Baton Rouge Community College

Location: 5310 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70806

Program Details: Offers a Diesel Heavy Truck Technology program that covers engine diagnostics, fuel systems, suspension, and brake systems. Students also get the opportunity to become certified through ASE.
Website: Baton Rouge Community College Diesel Program

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5. Louisiana State University Shreveport

Location: 1 University Place, Shreveport, LA 71115

Program Details: Offers an online Diesel Technician Certification course that prepares students for ASE certification and provides an optional externship.
Website: Louisiana State University Shreveport Diesel Program

6. River Parishes Community College

Location: 925 W 5th St, Gonzales, LA 70737

Program Details: This college offers a Diesel Equipment Technology program that covers repair and maintenance of diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and electrical systems.
Website: River Parishes Community College Diesel Program

7. Fletcher Technical Community College

Location: 1407 Hwy 311, Schriever, LA 70395

Program Details: Offers a Diesel Technology program that emphasizes diesel engine diagnostics, repair, and maintenance. The program also prepares students for ASE certification exams.
Website: Fletcher Technical Community College Diesel Program

8. Louisiana Technical College

Location: Multiple locations across Louisiana

Program Details: This college offers several campuses with programs in Diesel Mechanic Technology, preparing students for both light and heavy diesel engine repair.
Website: Louisiana Technical College Diesel Program

9. Delgado Community College

Location: 615 City Park Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119

Program Details: Offers a program in Diesel Powered Equipment Technology, focusing on diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of diesel engines for a variety of industries.
Website: Delgado Community College Diesel Program

10. Central Louisiana Technical Community College

Location: 4311 S MacArthur Dr, Alexandria, LA 71302

Program Details: This school provides a Diesel Technology program that prepares students for careers in diesel engine repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Website: Central Louisiana Technical Community College Diesel Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can You Be a Mechanic Without Qualifications?

Yes, it is possible to become a diesel mechanic without formal qualifications. Some individuals start as apprentices or assistants in repair shops and gain hands-on experience over time.

However, completing a formal diesel mechanic program significantly increases job opportunities, earning potential, and career stability.

Many employers prefer candidates with certifications or associate degrees.

2. How Much Does a Diesel Mechanic Make in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, diesel mechanics make an average of $50,279 per year, or $24 per hour, according to ZipRecruiter. The top earners make around $64,561 per year, or $31 per hour.

Factors affecting salary

Location

The highest-paying cities for diesel mechanics in Louisiana include Bossier City, Shreveport, Gonzales, Hammond, and Baton Rouge.

Experience

Skill level, location, and years of experience can all impact a diesel mechanic’s salary.

3. How Much Does Diesel Mechanic School Cost in Louisiana?

The cost of a diesel mechanic school in Louisiana can range from approximately $9,000 to $15,000, depending on the program, institution, and any additional fees like books and materials.

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Important things to think about:

Variation in tuition: The cost of tuition for diesel mechanic programs at various Louisiana technical institutions will differ.
Duration of the program: The program’s length may also affect the total cost.
Unexpected costs: Do not forget to account for any costs for books, equipment, supplies, and testing.

Ask about the current tuition at the various technical institutions in Louisiana that offer diesel mechanic programs to obtain the most precise cost information.

For more information on scholarships, click here.

4. What Are the Requirements for Diesel Mechanic Schools in Louisiana?

Admission requirements typically include:

High school diploma or GED
Application form submission
Placement tests or interviews (vary by institution)

Some programs may require prerequisite courses

5. Are There Online Diesel Mechanic Programs in Louisiana?

Louisiana State University Shreveport: Offers an online certification course for entry-level diesel technicians.

The course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Auto Maintenance and Light Repair (G1) Certification.

Conclusion

A career as a diesel mechanic in Louisiana offers stability and growth potential.

With the right training and education, individuals can secure high-paying jobs in various industries, including transportation, agriculture, and heavy equipment maintenance.

Whether pursuing a degree or a hands-on apprenticeship, the opportunities in this field are abundant.