Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 Course Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Caterpillar Technology, AAS


The Caterpillar Technician program prepares students for a career in the area of diesel repair, focusing on Caterpillar products. Instruction is in the repair, maintenance and testing of diesel engines, power trains and other components of trucks and construction equipment.

This program is accredited by the AED Associated Equipment Distributors, www.AeDnet.org.

For more information about the Caterpillar program, please visit our website at www.dmacc.edu/programs/cat.

Location: Ankeny

Students start any semester.
This program is taught between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Program Entry Requirements

  1. Complete an application for admission.
  2. Satisfy the assessment requirement.
  3. Complete a mechanical aptitude and ability test.
  4. Attend any required information/registration session.

Graduation Requirements

To earn a Caterpillar Technology AAS degree, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

These courses may have a different order of completion.

Semester 1


Option 1 - Select 1 Course


Semester 6


  • Option 2 - Select one course Credits: 3
  • Option 3 - Select one course Credits: 3-4
  • Option 4 - Select one course Credit: 3

Option 2 - Select 1 Course


Option 3 - Select 1 Course


Total Credits Required to Complete this AAS Degree - 82


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5 Semester 6
Books (approximate)   462 464 150 150 40 413
Supplies    80      80    45
Equipment-Tools (approximate) 3000          

Approximate total for program: $16,938*

*Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Diagnose mechanical and functional failures in Caterpillar equipment.
  • Remove, repair and install various components from Caterpillar equipment.
  • Diagnose and repair electrical and hydraulic systems in Caterpillar equipment.
  • Modify existing machinery to improve or adapt from its original design.
  • Make recommendations concerning the repair and maintenance of Caterpillar machinery.
  • Order parts and submit repair bills and estimates for the repair of Caterpillar machinery.
  • Use special tools and equipment to diagnose the condition of Caterpillar machines, systems and components.
  • Plan and organize work requested to repair Caterpillar equipment.
  • Use computers to retrieve information and service Caterpillar equipment.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Be goal-oriented.
  • Be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
  • Be able to follow directions and work well with others.
  • Be able to use mechanical skills and apply theoretical knowledge.
  • Be able to grasp new ideas and concepts rapidly.
  • Ability to read and comprehend new information.
  • Ability to communicate with others in the industry.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?


  • Graduates may be moved into management positions.
  • Some positions require a Class A CDL license.
  • There is a minimum investment in tools.
  • Graduates will usually be required to serve two or three years as a Caterpillar technician apprentice before attaining journeyman status.
  • Possess a strong personal commitment to succeed as a Caterpillar technician.
  • Average starting salary-anticipated $40,180 (2010-2011 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator may be contacted at 515-964-6857.  For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. (2016)