Program Overview

Major ID: 423D

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

Trucks move America, and truck technicians keep the trucks moving! There are a wide variety of potential career paths, from employment in the government sector at municipalities, to independent shops, dealerships, fleets, trucking companies, and more! Truck technicians are well-versed in every system on the truck, as most days will vary wildly in terms of repair tasks. Skilled graduates will have no shortage of finding employment in the variety of career paths available to them. Employment of truck technicians is expected to increase faster than average according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Program Outcomes

1. Inspect commercial vehicles in compliance with MNDOT standards.
2. Diagnose a variety of vehicle issues using testing equipment.
3. Demonstrate proper and effective use of tooling to service and repair modern MD/HD medium and heavy duty trucks.
4. Demonstrate ability to pass the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) tests for MD/HD medium and heavy duty trucks.

Program Faculty

Dan Wycklendt
dan.wycklendt@saintpaul.edu 

Textbook and supply costs

The following are estimated costs:

• Textbooks: $200
• Tools: Ability to use program tools, it is optional to buy one’s own set.

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 driver’s license may also be required by many employers.

Full-time enrollment is required

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

• Introduction must be taken concurrently with the other truck technician classes at the start of the program.