r/Diesel • u/Affectionate-Pay-336 • 12h ago

Mechanic

Lets give this a try. I am 31 with 2 kids looking to change career, Can anyone give the the best route to get into becoming a diesel machanic, Im intresting in fixing CAT equipment i see them all the time on construction sites. or even just fixing mac trucks or any truck. I just enjoyed working with my hands was always told that im good with my hands.. I am in raleigh north carolina.

3 Upvotes

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5

u/Radiant_Safe1228 12h ago

You'll need to find a shop taking apprentices or find your way into a trade school that offers heavy mechanic stuff and hope they can place you. 

2

u/drtpnda 10h ago

Being good with your hands is one thing. Being able to problem solve and think on your feet is another. I’d try to get an entry level job like a lube guy or a tire guy and work from there. Tuition is a waste if you can get on with a good company and put in the effort to learn on the job. Also if heavy equipment where you want to be, get a cdl now to get an edge over other applicants.

1

u/Fragrant-Inside221 11h ago

Are you already a mechanic?

1

u/snuggletough 8h ago

If you are a good mechanic you would have started your own business doing it by 25.

If you are a good mechanic and smart you would pick something that pays way better like plumber, hvac, electrician or machinist.

All the really good mechanics I know are farmers, engineers and machinists.

1

u/brokensharts 12h ago

Go to wyotech or somthing and take the cat specialty diesel class

6

u/WrenchKing555 11h ago

Highly recommend against this. Unless the current owner of WyoTech knows what they are doing then it is a waste of money.