Middleburgh students Ryan M. and Nick S. are among about 40 regional students enrolled in the Diesel Technology program at the Capital Region BOCES Career and Technical Education Center – Albany Campus. Both are learning the skills for careers as automotive, bus and truck technicians, heavy equipment repair technicians, and service managers.
“It’s a pretty awesome program. We get to work on engines and work with our friends,” said Ryan.
Diesel Tech students work on late-model trucks and diesel engines to gain knowledge and experience. They learn electrical and electronic theory, which they apply to computerized control systems used on today’s trucks. Students also learn how to service and maintain steering, suspension, chassis and braking systems and are taught about air conditioning recovery and recycling service procedures.
Nick says it can be challenging: “I‘ve never been good at understanding the electrical system in diesel engines.” But he persevered. ”Another student and I were given a 12-page schematic for an engine. We had to install an entire wiring harness for a truck. Being able to do that helped me to really understand how the whole system works.”
He gives credit to his teacher. “My teacher, Mr. Harrington, is very knowledgeable. He’ll teach you anything you want to know if you genuinely want to learn it.”
Nick is in his second year of the two-year program; Ryan is in his first year and sees a promising future ahead.
“I like working on engines, and it’s a great career,” said Ryan. “That’s why I am here.”
Diesel Tech at Career & Tech is the only high school-level program in the state to earn certification by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation/Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Students completing the program may earn ASE/EPA 609 and SP/2 certifications.
Nick already has a lot to show for his efforts. He placed third in the SkillsUSA Diesel Equipment Technology, Diesel Tech regional competition and went on to place sixth at the state level.
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