A pathway.
Diesel ButlerMAX
ButlerMAX is an ag-focused, dealer-sponsored option within Lake Area Tech’s Diesel program, developed in partnership with Butler Ag Equipment and Butler Machinery Company. This AED-accredited pathway prepares students to step directly into careers as ag diesel technicians across dealership locations in South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, and Montana.
Students split their time between campus and a Butler dealership, combining classroom instruction with hands-on training on industry-leading equipment. The program includes a paid internship, giving students real-world experience while building relationships within the company.
Accepted students receive a scholarship and paid internship package starting at $30,000, with first-year wages beginning at $20 per hour. Upon graduation, students earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Diesel Technology and have the opportunity to move into full-time employment with Butler.
The program is designed to do more than train technicians—it creates a direct path into the field, with opportunities to grow and advance within the company over time.
Learn more about the ButlerMax option here.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
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Diesel ButlerMAX Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Diesel ButlerMAX degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Diesel ButlerMAX sector.
Technician
Graduates of the ButlerMAX program can pursue careers as Technicians, diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing the heavy equipment that powers construction, mining, agriculture, and infrastructure projects. In this role, you'll use advanced diagnostic tools, technical knowledge, and hands-on skills to keep equipment operating safely and efficiently. It's an excellent career path for individuals who enjoy problem-solving and working with cutting-edge machinery.
Where you might work:
• Heavy equipment dealerships
• Construction equipment service centers
• Mining operations
• Agricultural equipment providers
• Equipment rental companies
Corporate Support Role
As you gain experience in the industry, opportunities may become available in Corporate Support Roles that help dealerships and equipment organizations operate efficiently. Graduates can expect to support areas such as operations, product management, technical services, training, and business development. These positions combine industry knowledge with leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.
Where you might work:
• Equipment manufacturers
• Dealer corporate offices
• Product support organizations
• Regional operations centers
• Equipment distribution companies
Parts & Service Sales Rep
Parts & Service Sales Representatives help customers keep their equipment operating at peak performance. In this role, you'll build relationships with customers, identify maintenance needs, recommend solutions, and connect clients with the parts and services required to maximize uptime. This career combines technical knowledge with customer service and sales expertise.
Where you might work:
• Heavy equipment dealerships
• Equipment service providers
• Construction equipment companies
• Agricultural equipment dealers
• Industrial equipment suppliers
Store Manager
Store Managers oversee the daily operations of dealership locations, ensuring customers receive exceptional service while supporting employees and business goals. Graduates can expect to lead teams, manage resources, monitor performance, and help drive operational success. This career is ideal for individuals who enjoy leadership and building strong customer relationships.
Where you might work:
• Equipment dealerships
• Agricultural equipment stores
• Construction equipment branches
• Equipment rental operations
• Regional dealership networks
Training Instructor
As a Training Instructor, you'll help technicians, operators, and industry professionals develop the skills needed to succeed in the field. Graduates can expect to deliver technical training, demonstrate equipment operation, explain maintenance procedures, and support workforce development initiatives. This role allows experienced professionals to share their knowledge and help shape the next generation of industry talent.
Where you might work:
• Equipment manufacturers
• Dealer training centers
• Technical colleges
• Workforce development programs
• Corporate training departments
Technical Communicator
Technical Communicators bridge the gap between complex equipment systems and the people who use and maintain them. In this role, you'll develop manuals, training materials, service documentation, and technical resources that help customers and technicians work safely and effectively. This career combines technical expertise with strong communication skills.
Where you might work:
• Equipment manufacturers
• Technical publishing organizations
• Dealer support centers
• Product support departments
• Engineering and service organizations
Service Advisor
As a Service Advisor, you'll serve as the primary connection between customers and service departments. Graduates can expect to coordinate repairs, communicate service recommendations, schedule work, and help ensure customers receive timely and effective support. This role combines customer service, technical knowledge, and organizational skills.
Where you might work:
• Heavy equipment dealerships
• Equipment service centers
• Agricultural equipment dealers
• Truck and equipment repair facilities
• Rental equipment companies
Product Support Rep
Product Support Representatives help customers maximize equipment performance through technical guidance, maintenance recommendations, and ongoing support. In this role, you'll build long-term relationships with customers while helping them improve equipment reliability and productivity. This career is ideal for graduates who enjoy both technology and customer interaction.
Where you might work:
• Equipment dealerships
• Equipment manufacturers
• Construction equipment providers
• Agricultural equipment companies
• Industrial equipment suppliers
Equipment Sales Rep
Equipment Sales Representatives help customers identify the machines and solutions that best fit their operational needs. Graduates can expect to build customer relationships, demonstrate equipment capabilities, develop proposals, and support purchasing decisions. This role offers the opportunity to combine industry knowledge with business development and sales.
Where you might work:
• Heavy equipment dealerships
• Construction equipment providers
• Agricultural equipment dealers
• Equipment rental companies
• Industrial equipment suppliers
Service Coordinator
Service Coordinators help organize and support the maintenance and repair operations that keep equipment running efficiently. In this role, you'll schedule service activities, coordinate technicians, manage work orders, and communicate with customers throughout the repair process. This career combines technical understanding with strong organizational and communication skills.
Where you might work:
• Heavy equipment dealerships
• Equipment service centers
• Construction equipment companies
• Agricultural equipment providers
• Fleet maintenance organizations
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
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Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,648 |
| State Fees | $3,240 |
| Departmental Fee | $5,448 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,232 |
| Uniform Fee | $280 |
| Tools | $9,250 |
| Books | $600 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $30,698 |
We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Diesel ButlerMAX FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What types of equipment will I work on in the Diesel ButlerMAX program?
Students in the Diesel ButlerMAX program receive hands-on training using primarily AGCO equipment, along with select CAT equipment. On campus, students work with real-world machinery such as a RoGator, Fendt 718, and a wide range of AGCO components, including engines, hydraulic systems, pumps, and drivetrains. Through Lake Area Tech’s close partnership with Butler Machinery, additional up-to-date equipment and components are regularly available, ensuring students train on the same technology used in today’s diesel and agricultural equipment industry.
How does the ButlerMAX dealer-sponsored option prepare students for careers at Butler Machinery?
The ButlerMAX dealer-sponsored diesel program is designed to prepare students for immediate employment as entry-level diesel technicians at Butler Machinery. Students begin with foundational diesel concepts and progress to advanced AGCO systems through a blend of hands-on shop training and classroom instruction. The program features a split-semester format, with approximately 8–9 weeks on campus followed by the remainder of the semester spent at a Butler Machinery dealership, where students gain real-world experience through a paid internship.
What skills will I learn related to engines, hydraulics, and advanced diagnostics?
Diesel ButlerMAX students develop in-depth technical skills through focused, system-based coursework. Students learn how diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and electronic components operate, how they are assembled, and how to diagnose and repair them. Training includes disassembling, inspecting, rebuilding, and testing components to proper working condition. As skills advance, students apply diagnostics and repair techniques directly on full machines, preparing them for real-world troubleshooting and service work in a dealership environment.
Are paid internships or sponsorship opportunities available through Butler Machinery dealerships?
Yes. The Diesel ButlerMAX program includes paid internships each semester through Butler Machinery dealerships. Students spend 8–9 weeks at Lake Area Tech for classroom and shop instruction, followed by a paid internship at a Butler location for the remainder of the semester.
- First-year students earn $20 per hour
- Second-year students earn $21 per hour
Upon graduation, students are offered full-time employment with Butler Machinery. In addition, Butler Machinery provides an $8,500 tool scholarship in exchange for a three-year employment commitment after graduation.
How is the Diesel ButlerMAX track different from other diesel technology options at Lake Area Tech?
The Diesel ButlerMAX track is a dealer-sponsored program with a guaranteed job offer upon graduation, provided students successfully complete the program. Students benefit from industry-leading training, paid internships, and direct access to one of the region’s top diesel equipment employers. Butler Machinery also offers competitive wages, excellent benefits, and long-term career growth, making the ButlerMAX program an ideal pathway for students seeking a stable, high-demand diesel technician career.
Diesel ButlerMAX Staff
Field-tested. Student-ready. Our esteemed staff is prepared to walk with you through every step of your collegiate career.
