What will I learn...

For a trainee in today’s auto industry, Diesel Mechanics is a challenging and rewarding opportunity. The industry requires a person who is flexible and has an honest desire to learn the trade area with proficiency. 

CPDI’s training program prepares the student for entry-level employment in all areas of diesel repair, maintenance, failure analysis and diagnosis. Theory instruction is provided prior to actual work in the shop area.This is where the student is placed in a realistic setting that parallels industry standards. 

Upon completion of the Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute’s Heavy-Duty Truck Program, the student will have accomplished the following educational course objectives: 
  • Develop specific skill competencies and related information associated with the occupation of a HeavyDutyTechnician.
  • Develop an understanding of labor and management.
  • Develop effective working habits.
  • Develop occupational safety and understanding of safety guidelines.
  • Develop the ability to work cooperatively with fellow workers.
  • Develop leadership qualities.

Admission Policy 

​It is the intention of Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute to offer educational opportunities to anyone who has the interest, desire, and ability to pursue post- secondary study for heavy-duty truck technology/diesel mechanic. At a minimum, applicants must have a high school transcript indicating satisfied graduation requirements, an official GED transcript with scores to confirm receipt of a diploma, or an educational transcript. A student may be accepted on a probationary basis if they attended a non-traditional secondary school, have life experiences that demonstrate the abilities to succeed at the Institute, or have documented work experience that is deemed acceptable preparation for the program.
 
Final acceptance into Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute is determined as a result of the entrance exam.
 
Central Pennsylvania Diesel Institute reserves the right to deny admission or re-admission to any student if, in the opinion of school authorities, his/her admission is not in the best interest of the student or the Institute. CPDI will provide opportunities to develop the basic skills necessary to enroll in the diploma course to those who demonstrate such needs on the CDPI’s entrance exam.

Each quarter at CPDI covers a different subject.
 The different subjects are as follows:

Diesel Engine Repair

​155 Hours / 9 Weeks
  • General
  • Cylinder Head and Valve Train​
  • Engine Block
  • ​Lubrication Systems
  • Cooling System
  • Air Induction and Exhaust Systems
  • Fuel System
  • Engine Brakes

Truck Chassis and Brakes​

​155 Hours / 9 Weeks
  • Breaks: Air Supply and Service Systems, Mechanical / Foundation, ​Parking Brakes, and Wheel Bearings
  • Suspension and Steering: Steering Column, Steering Units, Steering linkage, Suspension Systems, Wheel Alignment, Frame and Coupling

Truck Drive Trains

​​155 Hours / 9 Weeks
  • Transmission: Repair and Rebuild
  • Clutch
  • Drive Shaft and Universal Joint
  • Drive Axel: Rebuild, Remove, and Install​
  • Preventive Maintenance 

Electrical with Advanced Computer Diagnostics

​155 Hours / 9 Weeks
  • General Electrical Systems
  • Battery
  • Starting System
  • Charging System Diagnosis and Repair
  • Cummings, Caterpillar, and Detroit Diesel Engine Computer Diagnostics
  • Related Electronic Systems
  • HVAC systems