Felix Campos, Fidel Gardea de la Cruz, and Royce Knight, recent graduates of Midland High School, have embarked on their careers as diesel tech trainees at Warren CAT. This opportunity comes through the Midland College (MC) dual credit Career & Technology Education (CTE) program. The program allowed them to earn certificates in Diesel Technology before graduating high school, making them immediately employable. They are now pursuing Associate of Applied Science degrees while working full-time.
Erick Gutierrez, MC's program chair of Automotive, Diesel & Energy Technology, highlighted the benefits of the CTE dual credit program: "The CTE dual credit program at Midland College is an incredible opportunity for students to jumpstart their careers while still in high school.” He added that partnerships with companies like Warren CAT provide students with hands-on experience and professional mentorship.
Campos explained how they manage work and studies: “Since we work fulltime, we take our Midland College classes online and at night.” He emphasized the long-term benefits: “It’s definitely worth it because once we have our associate degrees, we will earn a higher salary and be even more in demand.”
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts about 25,600 openings for diesel technicians annually over the next decade. In Texas alone, there are currently 21,180 jobs available for diesel technicians with wages ranging from $40,000 to over $100,000 per year.
According to Pulse Magazine's April 26 issue this year, many young people are unaware of career opportunities as diesel technicians due to a shortage of vocational training programs focused on diesel engine technology. However, Midland College is addressing this gap by offering its comprehensive Diesel Technology program.
High school students can start taking courses as early as ninth grade. By junior year, they attend classes both at their high school and MC’s Diesel Technology facility. Companies like Warren CAT contribute through "Tech Talks," where representatives lecture on new technologies and discuss job opportunities.
Campos praised these initiatives: “The Tech Talks are just one of the many positive things about Midland College’s Diesel Technology program.” Gardea de la Cruz discovered his job at Warren CAT during one such talk: “It’s a great company with lots of benefits.”
Knight shared his demanding schedule but noted the rewards: “I’m working more than 40 hours each week... Getting off work at 4:00 allows me time before night classes.” Each trainee has future aspirations within or beyond Warren CAT.
Midland College offers various programs for prospective students seeking information at its Welcome Center.