Rick Shammel

Rick Shammel

Rick Shammel, originally from Sheridan, Montana, spent five years in the Navy, working as a jet mechanic. He honed his technical skills in a fast-paced environment, turning wrenches on some of the most advanced machines in the world. But when his military service ended, he found himself at a crossroads. He knew he wanted to continue working with his hands, but he also wanted to transition into a new industry. That’s when he discovered MSU-Northern’s Diesel Technology program.

Using the GI Bill, Rick enrolled at MSU-Northern, eager to build on his mechanical background in a way that applied to civilian life. Despite his prior experience, he quickly realized that working on construction equipment was a different challenge altogether. “Turning wrenches is turning wrenches,” he said, “but it’s quite different.”

The hands-on learning environment at Northern gave Rick the skills and confidence he needed to make the transition. He credits the program with providing him a strong foundation—teaching him not just about diesel engines, but also how to navigate and troubleshoot heavy equipment. What set his education apart was the opportunity to apply his knowledge through an internship while still in school. That experience, he says, helped him “cut his teeth” in the industry, allowing him to enter the workforce with real-world skills and connections.

After graduating in 2015 with a degree in Diesel Mechanics, Rick landed a job as a shop mechanic at RDO, working on construction equipment. His education gave him the technical expertise to diagnose and repair complex machinery, but more importantly, it taught him how to adapt, learn, and grow in his profession. “Be open to learning,” he advises future students. “Don’t act like you know it all—just be a sponge. Learn from everyone you can and use your resources.”

Rick’s journey from Navy jets to diesel engines is a testament to the power of education, adaptability, and hands-on experience. MSU-Northern not only helped him transition into a new career but also equipped him with the skills and mindset to thrive in it.

Find out more about the MSUN Diesel Technology program!