SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 9, 2011 -- Universal Technical Institute (UTI) CEO Kim McWaters and her husband Chris serve as catalysts for a new scholarship fund to make sure UTI graduates seeking advanced training in the automotive and diesel industries have the support they need to take advantage of unique educational experiences.
To establish the fund, the McWaters' have committed $100,000, payable over five years. In addition, UTI has committed to matching annual donations and other corporate partners are stepping forward so that $60,000 in aid will be available in this first year alone. "Our hope is that other industry partners and employers will join us in supporting students who demonstrate the motivation, talent and dedication it takes to succeed in one of UTI's manufacturer specific programs," said Kim McWaters. "An investment into this scholarship fund will ultimately result in a robust network of highly-trained technicians that are qualified to work in service departments across the country."
UTI provides advanced training programs that offer in-depth instruction on specific manufacturers' products, qualifying a graduate for employment with a dealer seeking highly specialized, entry-level technician with brand-specific skills. Some of the most sought-after OEM programs include: BMW Fast Track and BMW STEP; Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT); Mercedes-Benz STAR Technician (STARt); Nissan Automotive Technician Training (NATT); Porsche (PTAP); Toyota Professional Automotive Technician (TPAT); Cummins Engine Program (CEP), and International Technician Education Program (ITEP).
Through the new "Advanced Training Scholarship Fund," UTI students who need financial assistance to relocate to another UTI campus for manufacturer specific advanced training can apply for $1,000 in aid. The scholarship will cover student relocation costs such as travel expenses, rent, and utilities.
"To receive training with one of our industry partners is a once in a lifetime opportunity," said Kim McWaters, "However, these programs are located throughout the United States, and may require the student to temporarily relocate to another campus. We don't want them to lose out on this experience simply because they can't afford moving costs or a rent deposit."
"The creation of the Advanced Training Scholarship Fund demonstrates the passion and dedication the McWaters' have for focusing on the needs of industry partners and meeting their demand for professional entry-level technicians," says Verne Meury, executive director, UTI Foundation. "It also perpetuates the legacy they are developing for UTI, which is providing successful outcomes for graduates who may not otherwise have the chance to work with some of the nation's top manufacturers."
The UTI Foundation will start awarding students relocation scholarships on August 15, 2011. More details about the application process can be found at www.utifoundation.net.
About the UTI Foundation:
The UTI Foundation, a 501(c)(3) Arizona nonprofit, is the umbrella organization for all Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (NYSE: UTI) not-for-profit initiatives and is dedicated to raising funds to further its mission and strategic goals. The UTI Foundation supports technical education for the automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle, marine and NASCAR industries through scholarships, grants, career development and other special programs.
About Universal Technical Institute, Inc.:
Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (NYSE: UTI) is the leading provider of post-secondary education for students seeking careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. With more than 150,000 graduates in its 46-year history, UTI offers undergraduate degree, diploma and certificate programs at 11 campuses across the United States, as well as manufacturer-specific training programs at dedicated training centers. Through its campus-based school system, UTI provides specialized post-secondary education programs under the banner of several well-known brands, including Universal Technical Institute (UTI), Motorcycle Mechanics Institute and Marine Mechanics Institute (MMI) and NASCAR Technical Institute (NTI). To learn more about UTI and its training services, log on to www.uti.edu.
1) UTI cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2) For important information about the educational debt, earnings and completion rates of students who attended this program, and to review the applicable Gainful Employment disclosure, visit our website at www.uti.edu/disclosures.
5) UTI programs prepare graduates for careers in industries using the provided training, primarily as automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as a technician, such as: parts associate, service writer, fabricator, paint and paint prep, and shop owner/operator. UTI cannot guarantee employment or salary.
14) Incentive programs and employee eligibility are at the discretion of the employer and available at select locations. Special conditions may apply. Talk to potential employers to learn more about the programs available in your area. UTI cannot guarantee employment or salary.