An Inside Look at FleeTec Academy’s Diesel Tech Training

In today’s job market, finding a true entry-level role can feel like a thing of the past — especially in technical fields. But at Cox, we’re changing the game in the auto industry by training the next generation of elite diesel technicians from the ground up.

Enter FleeTec Academy, our very own diesel trailer and EV technical school exclusive to entry-level techs to start their career journey with Fleet Services by Cox Automotive (part of the Cox family of businesses). 

I recently spoke with senior recruiter Joe Tesmer to find out what people interested in an automotive career need to know about this hands-on, in-residence training program.

One of the great things about this opportunity is that prior experience isn’t necessary; all you need is a desire to learn and work hard in this new career path. 

“We’re looking for somebody who wants a career, not a job,” Joe said. 

Here’s a breakdown of the program works and what you can expect if you apply. 

How FleeTec Academy works 

1. Apply and interview for an entry-level diesel mechanic job.

Unlike a vocational school, FleeTec Academy is an exclusive, all-expenses paid training when you are hired as a full-time Cox employee in an entry-level diesel role. These roles are available nationwide, and our teams are continually hiring new recruits. 

“We have room in the academy for 16 brand-new trainees per month,” Joe said.  

People who are mechanically inclined — whether from technical work in the military, welding experience or working in collision and repair at an auto body shop — are all great fits for this program. 

“Every technician out there had to start somewhere, and somebody gave them a chance,” Joe said. “And that’s the cool thing about the FleeTec Academy: we can now give training to somebody who maybe just never had the opportunity or could afford to go to a technical institute.” 

If hired, you’ll receive all-expenses paid travel to FleeTec’s training facility in Indianapolis, IN, for five weeks of initial training.  

“You’re hired as an entry-level diesel tech,” Joe said. “Once you have completed the training at FleeTec, then you move to a diesel tech I position.” 

2. Fly out for a five-week accelerated learning program.

At the academy, you and a small group of classmates will learn from some of the best instructors in the industry who have an impressive collection of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications between them. You’ll put into practice what you learn in the classroom on vehicle and systems simulators — and get paid while you’re at it.  

You’ll have a trainee salary, plus overtime pay and a weekly stipend for meals. Cox covers flights, hotels and transportation. 

3. Receive on-the-job training with a mentor back home.

Once the basic training is in the rearview, you’ll fly back home and start getting on-the-job experience in the field alongside a mentor for six to 10 weeks. 

During this time, you’ll shadow an experienced technician, continue learning on the job and immerse yourself in a real-world mechanical environment.  

You’ll also get a salary bump, Joe explained: “The pay goes up three different times once they’re done with these five weeks.” 

4. Fly back to Indianapolis for an in-depth apprenticeship.

In the last part of the program, you’ll fly back to the academy in Indianapolis for another five weeks to wrap up your training. 

“This is when they’re diving deepest into diesel technology,” Joe said. “So, they’re getting into the guts of the diesel right here.”  

The moment you complete FleeTec training, you’ll be qualified to perform preventive maintenance and light repairs on vehicles integrated with innovative technology: like electrical systems, onboard computers, EV technology and more.  

Along with this knowledge and experience, you’ll have your own set of toolboxes, each worth up to $10,000. The best part? These tools will be yours to keep. 

“So going through this training, they get $20,000 in tools from us in two toolboxes, and after two years of employment, all the tools become their property,” Joe said.  

5. Continue developing your skills and growing your career.

Growth and learning don’t stop when a technician graduates from the academy. There’s a reason so many people build lifelong careers at Cox. 

“We have people who started out as an entry-level diesel tech who are now in management positions, overseeing teams of 15 other technicians,” Joe said. 

Brandon Harden, a mobile field technician and FleeTec Academy graduate, said he’s been able to sharpen his skills as an elite technician at Fleet Services by Cox Automotive. 

“I am experiencing things that are light years ahead of anywhere else I’ve worked,” he said. “You’re got nowhere to go but up when working here, and there are no signs of slowing down.”

Ready to kickstart a career with FleeTec Academy? Explore entry-level diesel tech jobs at Cox and sign up for our Talent Community today!