A Fresh Start in Diesel: How One Velocity Graduate Built a New Career

Career changes don’t always start with a perfect plan—they start with a decision. For one Velocity Institute student, DaQuann McDonald, that decision was choosing growth over excuses and purpose over doubt.

Today, he’s working as part of the Fleet Services team at Wabtec, building a real future in the diesel industry. His story is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t define your potential—your choices do.

A New Direction: “I Chose Growth Over Excuses”

After facing incarceration, he made a choice that would set his life on a different path:

“My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it. I went from being incarcerated to becoming a diesel technician — a path that once felt impossible. While in prison, I made a decision that would change my life: I chose growth over excuses and purpose over doubt.”

That mindset—personal accountability, discipline, and commitment—is what fuels long-term success in the skilled trades.

Why Diesel Technician Training Was the Turning Point

After his release, he enrolled in the Diesel Technician Program at Velocity Institute in Kansas City with one goal: build skills that lead to real employment.

“After my release, I enrolled at Velocity Institute, where I committed myself fully to learning a trade that could give me a real future. The road wasn’t always smooth, but I stayed focused, showed up every day, and refused to let my past define my potential.”

Diesel technician training is hands-on, skill-based, and career-focused—making it a strong option for students who want a practical path to a stable career.

The Result: A Career in Fleet Services at Wabtec

His commitment paid off. After graduating, he earned a position doing exactly what he trained for:

“I graduated from the program and earned a job doing exactly what I went to school for — working as a diesel technician.”

Now, he’s applying those skills on the job as part of Wabtec’s Fleet Services team, continuing to grow professionally and personally.

The Bigger Lesson: Your Circumstances Don’t Determine Your Destination

His story isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about rewriting what’s possible.

“This experience taught me that your circumstances don’t determine your destination — your mindset does. No matter where you come from or what you’ve been through, change is possible when you decide to put in the work.”

That message matters for anyone who feels stuck, behind, or uncertain. Real progress comes from showing up, staying consistent, and refusing to quit.

A Message to Future Students

If you’re thinking about diesel training but you’re unsure you can do it—read this twice:

“My story is proof that you can come out on top if you stay committed, stay focused, and never give up on yourself. Your past does not cancel your future — it can be the reason you succeed.”

At Velocity Institute, we believe in training with purpose—helping students build job-ready skills and confidence that carries into the workforce.

Ready to Start Your Diesel Technician Journey?

If you’re interested in becoming a diesel technician and want to learn how our program works, we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer your questions.

To learn more or request enrollment information, click HERE or give us a call at 816-834-3735

FAQ

Can diesel technician training lead to a real career?

Yes. Diesel technicians are needed across fleets, logistics, transportation, construction, and municipal operations. Training can open doors to entry-level roles and long-term growth.

Is diesel training a good option for someone rebuilding their life?

Skilled trades can be a strong career path because they reward consistency, effort, and hands-on ability. Many students succeed by focusing on discipline and building job-ready skills.

What does a diesel technician program help you learn?

Programs typically focus on practical skills, shop safety, tools, systems, and real-world scenarios that prepare you for work in the field.

How do I enroll at Velocity Institute in Kansas City?

To enroll in the Diesel Technician Program, start by visiting vcitc.org and submitting the Request Info / Apply form. Our admissions team will contact you to walk through program details, start options, tuition/financial options (when available), and the steps you’ll need to complete before your first day.