MEET THE PRO: Gregory Mosley Jr., Diesel Technician
By Arkansas Next on Thursday, September 15, 2022
Hometown: West Memphis
Age: 21
Where I Trained: Arkansas State University-Mid-South
What I Earned: Associate degree in Applied Science–General Technology
Job Title: Diesel Technology Instructor
Employer: ASU-Mid-South
Gregory grew up around cars and trucks, so it felt natural to pursue a career in the transportation industry. And Gregory always knew he wanted to make a difference in the world.
His late grandfather encouraged him, saying, “If you want to make a difference, be the difference.” Teaching runs in his family, so Gregory decided to become an instructor.
During high school, Gregory did dual enrollment. This allowed him to complete college classes while getting his high school diploma, and he found this route to be quick and affordable. After earning his associate degree at ASU-Mid-South, Gregory accepted a position at the school as a diesel technology instructor. Now, he teaches the next generation of diesel technicians and makes an impact on their lives—as his teachers did for him.
Gregory teaches high school and adult students how to work on vehicles, use shop equipment safely and to work alone or on a team.
“You are not just an instructor,” Gregory said. “...you become a mentor, an advocate and a role model to the students. I have to make sure each and every one of my students develop employability skills...," Gregory said. “[They are prepared] to enter the workforce immediately after they finish the program and excel in their profession.”
WHAT DOES A DIESEL TECHNICIAN DO?
Diesel service techs inspect, repair and overhaul buses, trucks or any vehicle with a diesel engine.
Education needed:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, plus on-the-job training. Some employers prefer technicians with postsecondary training experience and industry certifications.
Job Outlook
► Arkansas employed the second most diesel engine specialists in the U.S. in 2021
► 4,250 employed as diesel engine specialists in Arkansas in 2021
This option is for you if
- You have an interest in trucks
- You enjoy hands-on learning
- You're proficient with tools
- You're driven
- Quality and safety matter to you
High-end earners in Arkansas (top 10%) make
$60,150
Average wages in Arkansas
$50,200 Annual
$20.53 Hourly
START YOUR TRAINING
- ArcBest
- Arkansas Construction Education Foundation
- Arkansas State University-Beebe
- Arkansas State University-Mid-South
- Arkansas State University-Newport
- East Arkansas Community College
- Greenway Equipment
- Northwest Technical Institute
- Simmons Foods
- Stribling Equipment
- Tyson Foods Inc.
- University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology–McGehee
- University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton
- University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana
- University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College
READY TO HIRE YOU
- ArcBest
- Greenway Equipment
- McGeorge Contracting Company
- McKee Foods Corporation
- Simmons Foods
- Stribling Equipment
- Tyson Foods Inc.
Source: bls.gov
