Behind the Wheel to Under the Hood: This Student's Path to a Career in Diesel Mechanics

Kyle Sparks had a successful career as a truck driver but after 25 years he was ready for a more predictable work schedule. That’s when he found the Diesel Equipment Technology program at CNM.

“Even though I drove a truck for so many years, I had no idea how to fix them,” Kyle says. “I came in with no experience but was still able to quickly find my footing and immediately felt welcomed into the program.”

Kyle started in 2024 and jumped right into the Diesel Equipment Technology program that teaches learners how to maintain and repair medium and heavy-duty trucks and equipment. Learners also break down and rebuild a diesel engine as part of their course work, which Kyle particularly enjoyed.

“Having to rebuild the engine and make it run again has been my favorite thing we’ve done so far,” he says. “It’s a real test of your knowledge and helps you see the big picture.”

Earlier this year, Kyle qualified to compete in the SkillsUSA New Mexico State Leadership and Skills Conference taking place March 27-29. He came in second place during the CNM-wide competition, and has been studying and honing his technical skills to prepare for the next stage.

In the Diesel Equipment Technology category, competitors cycle through stations testing and troubleshooting engines, as well as demonstrating their skills in hydraulic systems, vehicle inspections, fundamental failure analysis, and more. At the end, participants also perform a job interview and complete a written test.

This is Kyle’s first time competing in SkillsUSA, and he’s excited to see how he stacks up against other students from across the state.

“I’m really excited to compete at the state level,” he says. “I’m older than most of the other competitors, so the competition is something fun for me and I’ll get an idea of what I know well and what areas I need to focus on.”

After SkillsUSA, Kyle is set to graduate in August and wants to land a job as a fleet mechanic. He also wants to encourage other students, especially returning students, to always ask questions.

“As an older student, one of the most important things I’ve learned is there’s no such thing as a dumb question,” he says. “If you have a question, someone else probably does too and by asking you’re helping everyone succeed.”