UNOH Now Offering A Diesel Technology Associate Degree

In May an economic report announced that there were more than 8 million unfilled positions in the U.S. job market. Another article I read stated that there were 5 million job openings for people with specialized skills. These were better paying jobs that differed from service sector positions.

These numbers were in my mind as I read a July 5 story about the University of Northwestern Ohio's new Diesel Technology Associate Degree program that will begin this fall. The new program will include classes that students need to become professional Mack and Volvo technicians upon completion of the program. The program is titled Diesel Technology -- Mack/Volvo DATE. DATE is an acronym for Diesel Advanced Technology Education.

What is clear from the announcement of this program is that diesel truck manufacturers recognize that there will be an increased need for diesel technicians for years to come as professional mechanics retire and exit the field. 

This is the third degree program that UNOH offers related to diesel tech. Last year the school initiated a program for medium/heavy duty diesel vehicles, and the another program has as its focus on light duty vehicle and diesel engines.

Mack diesel engines are built to last.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics there will be an additional 24,000 job openings for diesel technicians within the coming 8 years. UNOH is dedicated to filling this unmet need for skilled vehicle service technicians within the diesel industry.

The article makes note that students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average and a 97% attendance record. But it also points out that "upon completion of the program, students will be prepared for immediate employment at any of the hundreds of Mack and Volvo truck dealerships across North America."

What they especially desire is to see the spark of passion for this industry. Courses will include topics specific to Mack and Volvo engines, including a focus on powertrains, electrical and electronic systems. Students will also learn about chassis components, software and engine diagnosis and repair. The school is hands on so that in addition to theory there is shop time, maintenance training and testing.

Investing in yourself is a decision that yields a lifetime of dividends. 

Key Links

10 Reasons to Become a Diesel Mechanic

UNOH: Turn Your Passion Into A Career

UNOH Launches Third Diesel Technology Associate Degree

Education Schedule Announced for SEMA360

SEMA360 is this year's virtual alternative to the annual SEMA Show which has been the heartbeat of the Automotive Aftermarket for more than half a century. Yes, it's a bummer that we're not going the Vegas this year. There are so many highlights. The New Products Showcase, Builders Showcase, 10 miles of Manufacturers' displays, networking opportunities plus the educational tracks.

This week the seminar schedule was firmed up and finally announced. You can go to this page and see the full schedule, or you can go to this page to download a PDF of the schedule.

SEMA360 is taking place the first week of November, the usual week of their annual event. The show floor traditionally opens on Tuesday, but the seminars start Monday beginning with a Keynote opening. Monday's activities include seminars on selling and growing your business as well as interviews with industry leaders at a place called The Stage. Virtual, of course.

Tuesday begins with what's sure to be an informative Racing and Performance Forum that gives clues to where things are headed as we move into the future.

Other topics during the week include marketing strategies, classic cars and restoration, emissions compliance, how to add vehicle wraps to your business, and much more.

Follow the links above to get the full scope of the week's activities.