A Career in Diesel Technology: Insights from Rush Truck Centers’ Service Manager

This article is for aspiring diesel technicians.  

Ever wonder what it takes to train for a career in the diesel industry? We spoke with Darrell Dobias, the service manager at Rush Truck Centers in Texas, and he's got the inside scoop on how to become ready to pursue a career in this dynamic industry. Read below to see it all!

First, Why Experience Matters

Darrell knows a thing or two about what makes a great technician.

"I really try and look for technicians that they're not (completely) fresh," he says.

It's not just about having a clean toolkit. It's about having a little grease under your nails and some knowledge to go with it. That's why UTI grads are catching his eye, as he tells us. According to him, they show up with "the basic knowledge that they need to at least get started, which is a huge help."

The Peterbilt Technician Career

At Rush Truck Centers, they roll with the big boys—Peterbilt is their bread and butter.

"Our No. 1 coverage here is Peterbilt," Darrell shares, and knowing these beasts inside and out gives new techs a head start. Think of it as learning to ride a bike, but the bike is a massive, roaring truck!

With Rush Truck Centers, a trained technician starts at level one, but it doesn’t have to stop there. Darrell describes the progression:

 "Most of the technicians that start here will start off as a level one technician,” he explains. “And then from that point on, they can graduate to level two all the way to level five.”

Level five allows for more engine and hands-on work with opportunity to keep growing at Rush Truck Centers. According to Darrell, every 90 days their techs’ skills are reviewed, and if they’re deemed ready, they can continue to move up in responsibility and even roles in the company.

Diesel: The Future is Bright

With Austin's booming construction scene, the diesel industry is hotter than a Texas summer.

"The diesel market here is not slowing, and diesel is definitely not going anywhere," Darrell assures us.

It’s not just Rush Truck Centers that offers variety in this industry. For those who graduate after UTI Diesel training, they are prepared to pursue entry-level roles that include:¹

• Diesel technician
• Heavy equipment repair technician
• Power generation technician
• Agriculture technician

And as with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work.⁷⁷For diesel, more advanced roles include:

• Mobile diesel mechanic
• Master technician
• Fleet manager
• Shop foreman
• Service manager
• Shop owner

So, whether you’re in it for the trucks or the tech, diesel training might be the ticket to pursuing a career doing what you love.

Ready to Roll?

If Darrell’s insights have sparked your interest, it might be time to consider UTI for your training journey. "I would definitely recommend UTI as a school if you're interested in the diesel field. It is a very, very good school," he affirms.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands dirty and your career training rolling at UTI. Enroll today and prepare to become the diesel tech you want to be!

To learn more about training in diesel with UTI, head to our Programs page.