Universal Technical Institute Addresses Skills Gap

July 9, 2019—Universal Technical Institute (UTI) has launched an Early Employment initiative that combines post-secondary skills education with on-the-job, apprenticeship-type training. Demand for skilled automotive and diesel technicians has never been greater. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that, by 2026, there will be more than 1.2 million job openings (100,000 per year on average) in the transportation sector. 

Under the program, students learn about and can apply for local jobs with participating employers as soon as they enroll at UTI's Avondale campus. The program's employers have the opportunity to screen and hire incoming students before they start school, and give them on-the-job experience while they complete their education. 

The goal is for students to graduate and immediately hit the ground running in full-time jobs.

UTI's Avondale, Ariz., campus is launching the program beginning this summer. Participating employers in the Early Employment program include: ADESA Auto Auctions; Knight Transportation; Larry H. Miller Dealerships; Loftin Equipment Co.; Penske Automotive Group; Republic Services; RWC Group; S&S Tire & Auto Service Center; Sunstate Equipment Co.; and United Rentals.

There are over 30 early employment positions available to incoming students this fall. UTI plans to start the program in Arizona and then take it national to 12 campuses across the country.