The diesel engine is the workhorse powering most heavy vehicles and equipment today, because it is more durable and delivers more power than its gasoline counterpart. Diesel engine mechanics maintain, repair and rebuild diesel engines and the vehicles they power. Some mechanics work on equipment ranging from bulldozers to farm tractors, while others work on locomotives and even boats. With the increasing number of electronic parts used to operate the engine, mechanics now use handheld diagnostic computers and other specialized test equipment to determine the necessary repairs. Although many mechanics receive years of on-the-job training, a formal diesel mechanic training program is recommended to improve one’s ability to understand complex technical manuals and learn the latest engineering changes. With the ever-increasing dependence on freight transportation, this is a growing field with a demand for skilled workers!