Career Field Analysis: Diesel Mechanic

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Ever since I could go with my dad in the tractors and equipment on the ranch, I knew I wanted to be a part of its operation. I have always been fascinated with the operations of diesel engine and much of a valuable asset they are to our world today. I helped out on the ranch whenever I could driving equipment. In the summer time it was my job to operate the swather. I really enjoyed operating it as much as I enjoyed fixing it when it broke down. When it came time to go to college the decision for a major was pretty clear. This is my second year in college in the diesel program and I really enjoy it. I have learned a lot about diesels and the field and this is what I want to do.

Diesel mechanics fix and maintain every part associated with the diesel engine. There are many different branches of diesel technology which can include construction and farm equipment, over the road trucks, light duty pickups and stationary engines to name a few. A mechanic must be familiar with major brands of engines like Cummins and Cat. They can perform simple tasks of swapping out a bad component to completely overhauling an engine. The median pay for mechanics is “$42,320 per year or $20.35 per hour (United States).” When overtime hours are reached mechanics receive one and a half times pay for work performed. Negative parts of the job are the amount of overtime hours, the dirtiness of the work, and the cost of tools. Positive parts of the job are overtime pay, hands on, and traveling for work. The job outlook for growth in the diesel field “is projected to grow 9 percent from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations (United States).” The field of diesel mechanics is still growing today and will continue for a...

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...iece of advice was “don’t wait too long to get a job in the field, it changes every day and it is very easy to get behind with the advances in technology (Walden).” Overall Brad had some very good information and helpful advice.

After researching the details of a diesel mechanic I have found that I would really enjoy working on diesel engines. I have a fascination and passion for working on and around diesels. I really enjoy working on my diesel pickup and I have rebuilt my own personal diesel engine. I enjoy working on all aspects of diesels so I think it would be the perfect job.

Works Cited

Rocky Mountain Cummins. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014.

United States. "Diesel Mechanic." Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2013-14 Edition. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dept. of Labor. Web. 15 March 2014.

Walden, Brad. Personal interview. 10 March 2014.

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