Heavy-Duty Truck Technician

Gain Skills in Truck Technology from Basic Theory to Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Two CWI Students working on a truck transmission

Program Overview

Rev up your career with precision and power! Dive deep into the world of heavy-duty truck technology, where hands-on expertise meets cutting-edge innovation. At College of Western Idaho (CWI), the Heavy-Duty Truck Technician program is your ticket to a dynamic career in this field. Accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), this program offers comprehensive, entry-level training in the theory, service, diagnosis, and repair of on-highway heavy-duty trucks.

The program is split into two parts including hands-on training and basic theory followed by troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures. With access to nearly a dozen different heavy-duty trucks, you will gain practical experience in real repair procedures. The program also includes the opportunity to earn numerous industry-recognized certifications, enhancing your credibility and employability in the heavy-duty truck technician job market.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Applied Science

Advanced Technical Certificate

Cost

$14,508 – 15,981

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Location

Student working on a Detroit engine

Learning Opportunities

  • Real Truck Experience: Get hands-on with actual heavy-duty trucks, applying and honing your repair skills.
  • Comprehensive Training: Engage comprehensive, entry-level training, from theory to real-world application.
  • Internship Opportunities: Gain experience and build professional connections through partnerships with local companies.
  • Industry Recognized Certifications: Boost your resume with certifications that showcase your technical competency.
  • Career Advancement: Develop interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise, preparing you for advancement in the industry.

Local Industry Partnerships

Your education at CWI is supported by local industry providing direction on curriculum and access to shop tours, internships, and employment opportunities. Our industry partners also provide sponsorship for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) program accreditation you will benefit from as a student in this program. Partnerships include JG Peterbilt, Kenworth Sales, Freightliner Northwest, Peak Thermoking, NorthWest Equipment, and Rush Truck Centers.

Area of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Heavy-Duty Truck Technician – Associate of Applied Science Degree

2

YEARS

AAS

Degree Requirements

Cost: $15,981

Heavy-Duty Truck Technician – Advanced Technical Certificate

2

YEARS

ATC

Heavy-Duty Truck Technician working on truck engine

Career Opportunities

  • Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

    Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines. Includes mechanics working primarily with automobile or marine diesel engines.

    188

    Annual Openings*

    $23.89

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $49,691

    Annual Median Salary

    -5.97%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

Load more

*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Step 1

  • Apply to CWI.
  • Choose Heavy-Duty Truck Technician as your major.

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

STEP 3

  • Attend a Heavy-Duty Truck Technician Program Exploration event prior to registering for classes. Contact alexbeal@cwi.edu for future event details

Academic Calendar New Student Checklist

Clubs

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SkillsUSA

College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.

News

The Heavy-Duty Truck Technician program welcomed a new 2018 Freightliner Cascadia semi-truck, donated by the Daimler Corporation.

Read more about Newly Donated Semi-Truck Levels Up the Heavy-Duty Truck Technician Program

Juniors from area high schools experienced hands-on instruction and explored career paths during the CWI Summer CTE Bridge Program. 

Read more about High School Juniors Cross Off Skills at CWI Summer CTE Bridge Program

Are you interested in learning more about careers and programs to help you get the job you want? If so, plan to attend one of College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Program Exploration Events!

Read more about Find Out More About CWI Programs through Exploration Events

"Because of CWI, I am in a position to give back to my community and be a role model to those around me."

Read more about Giving Back

Joshua Oquendo, a Heavy Duty Truck Technician student, received a $1,250 national scholarship. 

Read more about Oquendo Named New Century Workforce Scholar

Ten Career Technical Education students, nominated by their instructors, selected to receive $1,000 scholarships.

Read more about 2020 Emerging Professionals

FedEx Freight donates a Kenworth semi-truck to CWI’s Heavy Duty Truck Technician program.

Read more about FedEx Donates Truck to College

Career and Technical Education students nominated by instructors as Emerging Professionals for 2018/19 academic year.

Read more about Emerging Professionals Nominated for Commitment, Talent, and Potential

CWI swept away the competition with 37 medals at this year's SkillsUSA State Conference.

Read more about CWI SkillsUSA Wins Big at State Competition

In honor of former CWI Trustee S. Hatch Barrett, the CWI Foundation and the Barrett Family have established a scholarship fund.

Read more about Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a CWI Founder

A group of CWI students and recent graduates also won medals in a school record five events.

Read more about CWI Celebrates First SkillsUSA National Title
View all news

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