Stepping into the field of a rewarding career like Diesel Mechanics comes with many perks. The demand for Diesel mechanics has been constantly on the rise for the last few years and is set to continue for many years.
A popular way to cement your feet in this industry is through a diesel mechanic apprenticeship.
Having hands-on experience in any industry is important, and it is true for diesel mechanics as well. A recommended way to get hands-on experience is through an apprenticeship.
You might have questions about whether a diesel mechanic apprenticeship is worth it and how to apply for one. In the guide, we give you all the answers about a diesel mechanic apprenticeship.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship can generally be described as gaining hands-on training by working under the supervision of a skilled worker in any industry. Typically, apprenticeships are paid positions. The supervisor can assign tasks that help the apprentice gain knowledge and skills in that specific industry.
Apprenticeship also provides the student with a complete experience of corporate life within that industry. By the time you complete your apprenticeship, you will have gained complete knowledge of how everyday tasks work in the industry.
Apprenticeships In Diesel Mechanics
If you are an aspirant in diesel mechanics, you will be required to gain relevant experience by working within the field. You can do this through apprenticeships, where you will be taught the basic and complex details of diesel engines, machines, and numerous automobiles. You will have to handle specifically assigned tasks under supervision.
When you start gaining experience as an apprentice, your tasks will start to evolve. You’ll be handling more complex challenges and can be asked to handle the complete repairs.
Apprenticeships are considered to help get an in-depth idea about working with diesel engines.
Is An Apprenticeship the Same as an Internship?
An apprenticeship and an internship both serve the same purpose: providing hands-on knowledge and skills to a candidate. Although both sound similar, some key differences set these two types of practical training apart.
One major difference between an apprenticeship and an internship is that internships can typically occur before or during graduate programs. In contrast, an apprenticeship program usually takes place after the completion of the course.
Internships are usually also a part of grading and evaluation during the completion of a graduation course. At the same time, an apprenticeship offers the candidates the opportunity to be permanently hired after completing the training.
Benefits Of Apprenticeships In Diesel Mechanics
As an aspiring diesel mechanic or someone interested in pursuing this career, you might wonder if taking an apprenticeship is worth it.
Here are the main advantages of getting into an apprenticeship program –
- Complete Practical Knowledge
If you are interested in pursuing Diesel mechanics as your career, you might have read about how gaining practical knowledge is more necessary than theoretical knowledge in this field.
This is because even if you gain all theoretical knowledge, you can only prove your skills if you can apply them practically while working with diesel engines. Apprenticeship programs help you gain relevant experience and knowledge about theoretical and practical skills.
- Working On Different Tasks
While pursuing your apprenticeship, you will be working on several different tasks each day. This will help you gain multi-tasking experience and work on the different roles that a diesel mechanic should know. Ultimately this will help you manage repairs or maintenance independently, without supervision.
- Learning From Your Supervisors
Apprenticeships play a significant role in allowing you to learn from skilled workers working in the field.
Working under experienced professionals will further help you gain the right skills as they will assist you by introducing the various Diesel mechanic tools, mechanisms, machines, and technologies related to the automobile industry.
They’ll teach you how to diagnose faults, analyze relevant solutions, and fix them appropriately.
Overall, you will be able to learn from their experiences which will eventually help you build your experience in this domain.
- Networking
One of the major reasons you should go for an apprenticeship is that it will help you build networks with skilled people already in senior positions within this industry. An apprenticeship in any automobile company will help you build a good rapport with your supervisor and colleagues and can also help you land jobs with a higher salary.
- Industry Experience
As mentioned earlier, applying for the apprenticeship programs offers you an environment to work with experienced professionals and a chance to learn about the basics of the diesel mechanic industry.
Gaining relevant industry experience will also make it easier for you to bag diesel mechanic jobs later.
Diesel Mechanics Apprenticeship: Is There a Better Option?
So far, we have discussed what an apprenticeship is and its benefits in the diesel mechanics field.
If you’re just starting out, taking on an apprenticeship might not be the best idea for you, as you will not have the relevant theoretical or practical knowledge required to operate on the heavy machinery that diesel mechanics typically work on.
You can find an apprenticeship, even if you’re a complete beginner, but it is hard. Employers prefer to hire apprentices with some level of experience.
If you’re interested in pursuing an apprenticeship, we recommend completing a training program. This way, you can expect a better salary, and it would be easier to complete your tasks.
Go for Online Training Program
Now, if you’re willing to join an apprenticeship, completing a full-time associate degree doesn’t make sense. That’s we recommend going for an online training program.
Choosing an online diesel mechanic school is highly recommended if you want to enter the workforce faster. There are several benefits of enrolling in an online training program, such as being able to complete the course in as little as 4 months, learning at your own pace and schedule, and the minimal costs attached to the program.
Online programs further help you with getting externships and help you prepare for entry-level ASE certifications as well.
Duties of a Diesel Mechanic Apprentice
Before you start looking for apprenticeship programs, you should understand the basic duties of a diesel mechanic apprentice. This will help you understand what exactly you will be doing at the workstations. The primary duties include the following-
- Conducting and assisting supervisors with diagnostic tests on automobiles
- Examining findings of the conducted tests
- Cleaning and organizing diesel repair tools
- Communicate with experienced mechanics
- Assist with check-ups on diesel vehicles
- Identify issues with broken machinery
- Tidy the repair and maintenance area
- Replace old or broken diesel machine parts
- Provide customer service to diesel clients
- Detail problems so customers understand
Read More: What does a diesel mechanic do
How much do Diesel Mechanic apprentices make?
The stipend or salaries offered for diesel mechanic apprentices majorly depend on the candidate’s performance, education, and experience. You can expect to earn up to $38,556 annually as an apprentice.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also reported that the job growth for Diesel mechanics is expected to rise by 4% by the year 2031, making this a highly rewarding career.
Ultimately, if you’re just starting out as an apprentice, your salary would be lower than a diesel technician salary.
Relevant Skills For The Role Of Diesel Mechanic
Some skills are considered important for candidates looking to take on diesel mechanic apprenticeships, such as:-
- Mechanical knowledge
- Proficiency in technologies
- Physical strength
- Basic mathematical abilities
- Good communication skills
- Ability to think critically
- Hand dexterity
How Does The Work Environment Of Diesel Mechanic Apprentices look like?
The general work environment of a diesel mechanic apprentice is a well-ventilated repair or maintenance shop.
They are supposed to stand for long hours of the day while assisting and repairing the machines and engines.
To get proper access to different parts of the machines, they are also required to kneel, crouch, and sit on the floors. You will also have to handle impact and mechanical tools to fix bolts. Moreover, you will get a chance to work with the experts and get an in-depth understanding of the working of different automobiles.
How Can You Become A Diesel Mechanic Apprentice?
Becoming a diesel mechanic apprentice can be challenging. However, these few simple steps can help you with the process. Here is what you need to do:
- Discover if it’s the right career for you
Before deciding on entering this industry, you need to determine if you want to become a diesel mechanic or not. You will need to enjoy working as a diesel mechanic or be interested in diesel engines to decide if you want to enter this rewarding yet challenging career. (Read More: How to Become a Diesel Mechanic)
- Complete Your Educational Qualifications
To be eligible to work, you must complete your educational qualifications. As mentioned earlier, the minimum requirement is for you to complete your high school degree or the GED.
After that, it is recommended to go for an online diesel mechanic training program. You can complete a training program within months, and they are significantly cheaper than full-time diesel mechanic degree programs.
- It’s Time To Acquire The Entry-Level Certifications
Once you complete your education, you will need to sit for ASE certification exams, clearing which will help you become a certified diesel mechanic.
Although there are numerous Diesel Mechanic Certifications available across the country for this industry, employers highly prefer candidates with a minimum of G.1 ASE Certification.
- Apply For The Apprenticeship Programs
After earning your ASE certification(s), you can start applying for diesel mechanic apprenticeships. Many workshops and repair shops offer apprenticeships to budding diesel mechanics looking for an entry into this field of trade.
You can start by creating and perfecting your diesel mechanic resume and then submitting your applications across workshops.
Conclusion
Taking on an apprenticeship is the best way to gain relevant experience to become a valued diesel mechanic. Completing an apprenticeship program will also help you secure a job later in this field, as you will have all the right knowledge and skill set.
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