COOS BAY, Ore. – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) is rolling out a new Diesel Mechanic Technology Program this fall. The program will enroll 15 students fall term, bringing high-skill, hands-on training to individuals ready to power up careers in one of the region’s highest-demand trades.
The limited-entry, competitive program is open for applications through July 24. Interviews will be held in August and classes begin Sept. 15. A limited-entry format means students must apply and interview to be considered for the program. Classes will run weekday afternoons and simulate a real job environment — complete with uniforms and professional expectations. More details are available at http://www.socc.edu/dieselmechanic.
Coos Bay business owner Terry Cheyne created the program and brings more than 35 years of experience in diesel technology and shop management. A Marshfield High School graduate and Universal Technical Institute alum, Cheyne returned to Coos Bay in 2016 to launch his successful mechanic business, Cheyne’s Truck & Marine. He’s now ready to turn his focus to teaching.
“I plan to structure this program like a job all the way through graduation. Students will learn all aspect of the business, not just turning wrenches,” Cheyne said.
The program combines lectures and hands-on lab training to prepare graduates for careers in trucking, maritime, forestry, fleet services, rail and agriculture. Each term will build on skilled learned, increasing in experience and complete truck maintenance and repair. Ultimately, students will earn an Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Mechanic Technology.
Initially housed in a repurposed ambulance bay in Umpqua Hall, the program is the first step in a larger vision. Over the next two years, the college will design and build a new four-bay diesel shop facility on the Coos Bay campus. SWOCC and the SWOCC Foundation are working together on grant funding and private donations to support this expansion, aiming for completion in 2026 or 2027.
For more information about the program, contact Terry Cheyne at (541) 888-7242 or terry.cheyne@socc.edu. To learn how to support the diesel program, call the SWOCC Foundation at (541) 888-7211 or email foundation@socc.edu.
You can read more about Cheyne’s background and the creation of the Diesel Mechanic program HERE.
