Diesel Engine Technology in South Carolina
South Carolina's Diesel Technology pathway develops technicians for diesel engines used in trucks, buses, and heavy equipment. The state's trucking and transportation industries create strong demand.
Students study diesel engine systems, fuel systems, emissions controls, and diagnostics. They work on actual diesel engines and heavy equipment.
Graduates work as diesel mechanics, heavy equipment technicians, fleet maintenance specialists, or service advisors. Employment opportunities exist with trucking companies, bus fleets, equipment dealers, and independent shops throughout South Carolina.
Diesel Engine Technology at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
South Carolina diesel technology standards cover diesel engines, fuel systems, emission controls, electrical systems, and diagnostics. Standards include safety procedures.
Students complete engine diagnostics and repairs, system competencies, and ASE exam preparation. State standards emphasize troubleshooting and EPA compliance.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Diesel Engine Technology 1 |
| Diesel Engine Technology 2 |
| Diesel Engine Technology 3 |
| Diesel Engine Technology 4 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓MSSC Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓ASE Student Certification
- ✓ASE Entry-Level Certification
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Technology
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Collision and Body Repair
- ✓EPA 609 Certification
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Diesel Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $46,210 - $61,400
Adjusted for cost of living: $49,592
Fleet Maintenance Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $80,510 - $139,580
Adjusted for cost of living: $110,163
Service Advisor
Entry LevelAdjusted for cost of living: $45,074
Shop Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $66,730 - $148,690
Adjusted for cost of living: $106,611
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students work with trucking companies, bus fleets, equipment dealers, and diesel repair shops throughout South Carolina.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps South Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
South Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with South Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as South Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in South Carolina
Automotive Technology
South Carolina's Automotive Technology pathway provides comprehensive training for careers in automotive service, repair, and diagnostics. This four-level program prepares students to service increasingly complex modern vehicles equipped with advanced electronics, computerized systems, and alternative fuel technologies. With South Carolina's strong automotive manufacturing presence and extensive network of dealerships and service centers, demand for skilled automotive technicians remains consistently high. The pathway follows a progressive sequence building from foundational automotive systems knowledge through advanced diagnostics and repair procedures. Students work with modern diagnostic equipment, manufacturer-specific tools, and actual vehicles in fully equipped automotive laboratories. The curriculum aligns with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) standards and prepares students for multiple ASE certifications upon graduation or soon after workforce entry. South Carolina's Automotive Technology programs emphasize both traditional mechanical systems and emerging automotive technologies including hybrid and electric vehicle systems, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and connected vehicle technologies. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are prepared for careers servicing current vehicles while adapting to the rapidly evolving automotive industry.
Supply Chain & TransportationCommercial Drivers License (CDL)
South Carolina's Commercial Drivers License pathway prepares students for careers in professional trucking and commercial transportation. The state's transportation industry and driver shortages create strong demand. Students study commercial driving regulations, vehicle systems, safety practices, and logistics. They complete classroom instruction and on-road training in commercial vehicles. Graduates earn CDL licenses and work as professional truck drivers, bus drivers, or transportation specialists. Employment opportunities exist with trucking companies, bus operators, and commercial transport services throughout South Carolina.
Transportation, Distribution & LogisticsPower Equipment Technology
South Carolina's Power Equipment Technology pathway develops technicians for small engine and power equipment service. The state's agriculture, landscaping, and equipment industries create ongoing opportunities. Students study small engine systems, fuel systems, electrical systems, and repair procedures. They work on lawn mowers, chainsaws, generators, and other small engines. Graduates work as power equipment technicians, service specialists, or shop managers. Employment opportunities exist with equipment dealers, independent shops, landscaping companies, and rental centers throughout South Carolina.
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