Hinds CC diesel technicians expands to night courses

Jul. 6, 2022

Source: Rankin County News

RAYMOND — The diesel industry in Mississippi has expressed a major need for diesel technicians. To meet this need, the diesel program of Hinds Community College is expanding by offering a night courses option beginning in August 2022. This will allow prospective students to work during the day while attending classes at night. The night program is a 16-month program that provides students with a kick-start into a highly rewarding, highly successful career. Classes will meet 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Students may earn multiple industry certifications in each of several areas of concentration during the course. Introductory course-work takes place at the Diesel Tech program's facility on Highway 18 in Raymond. Advanced courses take place at the Diesel Technology Academy at 301 Highway 49 South Frontage Road in Richland.

The program trains students to maintain and repair a variety of diesel equipment, including tractors for the farm, big rigs for the open road and an array of construction equipment. They also learn to inspect, repair and maintain engines, power trains, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, air conditioning and brake systems.

"It will take students three semesters plus one summer to complete the diesel part of the program, which results in a technical certificate at graduation time," Diesel Equipment Technology program Director Lee Douglas stated. Students then have the opportunity to pursue an Associate of Applied Science from the program with successful completion of core academic work.

Graduates go to work at local dealerships that sell and service heavy-duty trucks and industrial equipment. Positions like these see an average annual income of $50,000 at the state level.

For more information about the Diesel Technology program, including the night program, call 601-857-3478 or see the Hinds website hindscc.edu/diesel-night.