Program Overview

Major ID: 100D

Program Start Dates: Fall

Truck Technicians diagnose trouble accurately with the use of modern testing equipment. They repair and service the entire truck and trailer including gas and diesel engines. They also work on air brakes, multi-speed transmissions, differentials, electrical systems, chassis and engine electronics, cooling systems, air conditioning and refrigeration, and many more components of today’s modern truck.

Career Opportunities

Maintenance departments, which have the responsibility for the repair and the maintenance of the entire truck, need skilled graduates to fill truck technician positions. Many technicians find employment with companies that own a fleet of vehicles such as truck lines, bus lines, and construction companies. Other technicians work for small repair shops, truck dealerships, heavy equipment dealers and the government. Employment of truck technicians is expected to increase faster than average according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Program Outcomes

1. Graduates will diagnose problems that occur in all major truck systems.
2. Graduates will service and repair medium/heavy duty trucks and trailers.
3. Graduates will communicate effectively with customers, supervisors, colleagues, and industry professionals.
4. Graduates will inspect commercial vehicles based upon MN DOT Standards.

Program Faculty

Dan Wycklendt
dan.wycklendt@saintpaul.edu 

Textbook and supply costs

The following are estimated costs:

• Textbooks: $450
• Tools: $1,000-$2,000 depending on brand of tools purchased.

Additional Requirements/Recommendations

The student should be capable of passing a rigorous physical examination with emphasis on eyesight, color vision, hearing, back condition and motor coordination.

Applicants should be high school graduates or equivalent with good reading ability and an understanding of basic mathematics in order to understand and apply technical information.

Drug test, background check, driving record, and a commercial drivers license may also be required by many employers.

Full-time enrollment is required

This is a two-year, full-time day program.

• Introduction and Safety must be taken concurrently with the other truck technician classes at the start of the program.
• It is recommended that the general education requirements be taken in the summer term before the first year or between the first and second years.