Diesel Mechanic
Technology
CONTACT
General Program Info
Text or Call: 541-240-8227
Email
Specific Program Info
Terry Cheyne
Diesel Mechanic Technology Instructor
Office: Sitkum Hall, 2D
Phone: 541-888-7242
Email
Rev up your career!
Ready to work with powerful machines and start a rewarding career? Southwestern is launching a brand new Diesel Mechanic Technology Program starting Fall 2025, providing you the hands-on training needed to succeed in the diesel repair industry.
Our comprehensive curriculum covers essential engine and truck maintenance and repair, ensuring you develop the skills employers are looking for. You’ll be ready to tackle challenges in a variety of industries, including trucking, maritime, fleet management, agriculture and forestry. Students who complete the program will earn an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Mechanic Technology.
Diesel mechanics are in high demand, which can lead to steady work and great pay. Skip the office—get to work doing what you love!
More news about the launch of this exciting program:
- Southwestern Launches Diesel Mechanic Program to fill workforce gap
- New Diesel Program at SWOCC rolls out this fall
- Southwestern Oregon Workforce Investment Board’s (SOWIB’s) $100,000 investment to kickstart our new Diesel Mechanic Technology program.
The first group of Diesel Mechanic students starts Fall 2025
Ready to get started? This competitive program has limited seats. Read the details below to learn what to expect and the steps to apply for Fall 2025.
IMPORTANT DATES:
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July 15, 2025 – Recommended deadline to review all application steps
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July 24, 2025 – APPLICATION DUE DATE for Diesel Mechanic Technology Program
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Week of August 4, 2025 – Applicants notified about interview invitations
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August 4–14, 2025 – Interviews held (by invitation only)
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Week of August 18, 2025 – Applicants notified of acceptance
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September 15, 2025 – Fall Term classes begin
Need a place to live while you train?
We offer on-campus student housing just a short walk from your classes. Learn more about living in our apartment-style housing on the Coos Campus!
Student Housing Info
CONTACT
General Program Info
Text or Call: 541-240-8227
Email
Specific Program Info
Terry Cheyne
Diesel Mechanic Technology Instructor
Office: Sitkum Hall, 2D
Phone: 541-888-7242
Email
Need a place to live while you train?
We offer on-campus student housing just a short walk from your classes. Learn more about living in our apartment-style housing on the Coos Campus!
Student Housing Info
GRIT MEETS OPPORTUNITY
Modern-equipped lab
Many jobs locally and statewide
Average hourly wage $26.88
WHAT TO EXPECT
Get ready to train like you’re already on the job. Here’s what you can expect as a Diesel Mechanic Technology student at Southwestern:
-
Real-World Shop Experience
Get your hands dirty working on real equipment—both in the shop and outside. This is hands-on training that mirrors what you’ll see in the field. -
Full-Time Commitment
Diesel classes take place 4+ days a week, with 6–7 hours of instruction and lab time per day. Additional academic courses are also required to complete your degree. -
Basic Safety Equipment Required
First-year students will need to purchase essential safety gear like goggles and proper footwear. A full list will be available through the Campus Store. -
Uniforms Provided
Students are expected to wear program-provided uniforms during class—just like in a real shop environment.
Think you have what it takes? The ideal student is passionate about the diesel industry, shows up on time, stays ready to learn, and brings a strong work ethic every day. If you’re committed to hands-on learning and ready to take this seriously, this program is for you.
JOBS & WAGES
20 Annual Openings on the South Coast
$39,000 is the entry-level yearly wage
$56,000 is the average yearly wage
7.2% Expected Job Growth in Oregon in the next 10 years
Source: Oregon Employment Department
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Terry Cheyne
Diesel Mechanic Technology Instructor
If you’ve worked in trucking or commercial fishing on Oregon’s South Coast, you may know Terry Cheyne—or his waterfront mechanic shop in Coos Bay. With more than 35 years in diesel repair, trucking, and business management, Terry now brings his hands-on expertise to SWOCC’s new Diesel Mechanic Technology program.
A Marshfield High School graduate, Terry earned his diesel technology certificate from Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix. He’s worked across industries—from logging and agriculture to corporate fleet operations—eventually managing repair shop teams across the U.S. In 2016, he returned home to start Cheyne’s Truck & Marine, a local business that continues to grow.
“I learned a lot from hard knocks,” Terry says. “I plan to structure this program like a job all the way through graduation. Students will learn all aspects of the business, not just turning wrenches.”
Terry designed the program to reflect real industry expectations and meet a growing need for skilled mechanics.
“Many trade schools offer training as a moneymaker, but there’s no heart in their programs or focus to making a person a well-rounded employee,” he says.
His goal? Train reliable technicians, give students solid job skills, and help fill a workforce gap that’s been building for years.
STEPS TO APPLY
DIESEL MECHANIC TECHNOLOGY IS A LIMITED-ENTRY PROGRAM! Carefully read and follow instructions below by the deadline indicated.
Become a Southwestern Student
DUE DATE: Recommended completion no later than July 15, 2025 (this will ensure you’re able to complete Step #2 by deadline).
New to Southwestern? If you are new to Southwestern and/or have not completed credit courses at Southwestern within the past year, COMPLETE THE FIRST TWO ITEMS on the “Steps to Student Enrollment” located on the Become a Student page.
High School “College Now” student? If you are a dual-credit or expanded options student, follow the above instructions for “New to Southwestern.”
Already a student? If you’ve taken credit classes at Southwestern within the last year, SKIP AHEAD TO STEP #2. Just make sure you can log into myLakerLink using your Student ID # and password. Trouble logging in or resetting your password? Visit the Help Desk Portal for step-by-step instructions.
IMPORTANT:
- This process can take up to 5 days, so plan accordingly!
- You must complete the first two steps listed on the Become a Student page; however, meeting with an advisor isn’t necessary to apply to the Diesel Mechanic Program.
Apply to Program
DUE DATE: Program applications are due July 24, 2025 by 5:00 p.m. Pacific.
To submit your Diesel Mechanic Technology Program Application:
- Login to myLakerLink using your Student ID # and password.
- Navigate to the Diesel Mechanic Technology Program Application page.
- Complete and submit the program application form.
IMPORTANT: This application will require you to submit at 150 – 500 word essay. It’s recommended you prepare the essay in a separate word .doc and then copy/paste the text into the application form.
Applicants who apply by the deadline will be notified during the week of August 4, 2025, about whether or not they advance to the interview phase.
Interview for Program
**This part of the application process is by invitation only**
DATES: Interviews will be held August 4 – 14, 2025, in-person at Southwestern’s Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay, OR).
- Applicants will be notified the week of August 4 if they are invited to this interview phase.
- Notifications will include detailed instructions for scheduling.
- Plan for your interview to last at least 30 minutes and resemble a job interview in both format and expectations.
What’s next?
Final admission decisions will be shared the week of August 18, 2025.
