Master Million-Dollar Machines
Power your future with heavy equipment expertise.
Train to become a skilled construction equipment service technician while earning real work experience and an associate degree. Learn about cutting-edge Caterpillar equipment through classroom instruction, hands-on labs and supervised work experience at Caterpillar dealerships. Gain experience at Owens’ labs—outfitted with the latest technology and state-of-the-art equipment.
Professional qualities that set you apart:
- demonstrated proficiency with heavy equipment and machinery
- professional communication (written and oral) with customers and colleagues
- math skills (basic arithmetic, algebra and trigonometry)
- strong knowledge of safety excellence
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
At Owens, you have a team of dedicated, experienced professionals guiding you. In turn, your faculty will be supported by an Advisory Committee of local professionals.
Our instructors are experts who take pride in your success. Combined with our small class sizes, you’ll get one-on-one mentorship and precise technical feedback tailored to your goals.
Award Type
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Department
Department of Transportation Technologie
Required Credit Hours
63-72
What to Expect
16
Weeks of training—alternating 8 weeks in class, 8 weeks paid internship
2
Years of program duration (five semesters)
97%
Employment rate within 1 year for grads
Industry-Designed Curriculum. Dealership-Based Training.
Become proficient in heavy equipment repair through our job-focused curriculum combining diesel systems, hydraulics, electronics and diagnostics with hands-on training at regional dealerships. Caterpillar and the Owens Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician Program jointly created this comprehensive technical training program.
Your coursework includes:
- Caterpillar-specific tools and technology
- Computer-based diagnostic techniques
- Diesel engine systems and repair
- Electrical principles and electronic controls
- Heavy equipment operation and maintenance
- HVAC systems and certification
- Hydraulic and powertrain systems
- Safety protocols and procedures
Owen’s students can plan to spend half of their time in class at Owens and the other half interning at a Caterpillar dealership. Sponsoring Caterpillar dealerships provide paid employment during the work experience component.
You must obtain your own sponsorship from an authorized Caterpillar dealership prior to beginning this program. We can assist in student placement or locate students for businesses needing a co-op student.View Student Achievement & Program Data
Career Outcomes
Get trained as a specialized heavy equipment technician for complex machinery, including Caterpillar engines, hydraulics, electrical systems and advanced diagnostics. This cooperative program offers extensive field experience at dealerships and service facilities.
Owens partners with General Motors, Chrysler, Caterpillar, John Deere, Kubota, Freightline and Williams Detroit. You will graduate with manufacturer-specific expertise and direct connections to employers.
Explore the employment data to understand trends in our area.
In Their Words
“The faculty’s expertise on machines and engines grew my knowledge. In the CAT program, I was empowered to try out ideas I had for different projects. My teachers encouraged me to learn through trial and error using knowledge they taught.”
Mike Leicht, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician, ’23
Getting Started at Owens
Begin your high-quality education at an affordable price today!
Enrollment is easy—just fill out an online admissions application to get started. We’ll ask you to submit your transcripts for course placement and college credit.
Qualified candidates who apply early and have a sponsoring dealership or service center are chosen first.
Upon acceptance, schedule a meeting with your admissions advisor to register for classes. Next, attend an on-campus orientation and meet with your student financial services advisor to discuss ways to pay for college.
Indiana Reciprocity
Indiana residents who enroll at Owens Community College in the Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician, AAS program may be eligible to pay the Ohio resident fees instead of the out-of-state fees through Indiana reciprocity.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE). For more information concerning accreditation standards contact the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), 310 W. Lake Street, Suite 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126, phone number (630) 433-4514, web address atmae.org.