How To Train To Become an Auto Electrician
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Students at Universal Technical Institute can advance their education after completing their core Automotive Technology training, thanks to the Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs available at various campuses.
The Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) program is a great example of one of these programs.
Since 1999, UTI’s relationship with Ford has allowed students access to training opportunities that can help them earn certifications employers are asking for at more than 3,100 Ford and Lincoln dealerships in the United States.1
Ford has invested over $10 million in resources for UTI campuses to help make this possible. Keep reading to find out more about the Ford FACT program and the benefits it can offer graduates!
Key Summary Points
- Universal Technical Institute offers opportunities for students to advance their education through Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs, such as the Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) program.11
- The FACT program is a training program that provides students with instructor-led course credentials and over 80 web-based credentials, covering a range of topics related to automotive technology.
- Students in the FACT program have access to Ford's Professional Technician website, which provides them with diagrams, repair information and workshop resources used by technicians in the field.
- The FACT program covers topics such as electrical and electronics, brake system diagnosis and repair, climate control systems and diagnosis, engine repair, and diesel engine repair and performance.
Benefits of Ford FACT
The Ford FACT program takes place over 15 weeks, with students completing instructor-led courses and acquiring over 80 web-based credentials.8 This manufacturer-specific training covers a range of topics that can help them along the path toward becoming Master Technicians.6
“Students are taking the same classes delivered at Ford training centers,” says Bob Furedy, National Program Manager for UTI. “They can earn 12 Ford Service Technician Specialty Training (STST) instructor-led course credentials.”
Each student is assigned a Ford Motor Company’s STARS ID used to keep track of their FACT training history. Making an account in the STARS training database also provides access to a certification planner, which can make it easier for students to track their progress throughout the web-based learning and instructor-led classes needed to earn credentials.18
“Once a section in the certification planner is 100% completed, students are considered to be a ‘certified specialist’ in that topic, with the goal of completing the 12 STST certification pathways,” Bob says.
The STARS database is a great resource that gives employers access to the training histories of job candidates with FACT credentials. Having their training officialized in this database could help set Ford FACT graduates apart when they’re applying for jobs.
Students and graduates also have access to Ford’s Professional Technician website, allowing them to retrieve the various diagrams, repair information and workshop resources that technicians in the field use.
Topics Covered
The courses in the FACT program provide diagnostic, diesel and electrical training using the same types of equipment provided to Ford dealership technicians.
While most courses in the FACT program are genuine Ford classes used to train technicians in the field, UTI has also developed three additional courses.
The goal when developing this training was to ensure students have a higher success rate when achieving certifications in complex topics. These courses include:
- Electrical Diagnosis Boot Camp: An in-depth overview of Ford electrical systems, with the goal of improving diagnostic skills. Covering this topic ensures a thorough understanding of a complicated topic and prepares students with the proficiency needed to successfully complete the rest of the program. This boot camp allows students to do their own work instead of in lab groups of three to four students — a unique offering from UTI.
- Ford Quick Service and Light Repair: An important part of any dealership’s Service Department. Students can gain the knowledge and skills to perform inspections, maintenance and light repairs on vehicles using Ford’s official Quick Lane procedures.
- Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Operations & Diagnosis: Teaches hybrid and electric systems operation and how to safely repair and diagnose different hybrid and electric vehicle problems.
Other topics covered over the 15-week FACT program are:
- Electrical and electronics: Advanced training on different Ford electrical systems and electronics, from navigation to SYNC training and more.
- Advanced brake system diagnosis and repair: Diagnosis and service of current and past Ford brake systems.
- Advanced climate control systems and diagnosis: Ford heating, air management, refrigeration and control systems.
- Basic and electronic steering and suspension: Ford electronic steering and suspension, including special procedures and diagnostic tools.
- Engine repair: The ins and outs of the disassembly and reassembly of Ford OHC, SOHC and DOHC engines.
- Advanced diesel engine repair and performance: Diesel engines – basic diesel, fuel injection and direct injection turbo, including 3.0L and 6.7L Power Stroke® engines.
- Noise vibration and harshness diagnosis: Principles of NVH and vibration frequencies, along with VMS software and VCMM scanning tools.
- Engine performance and theory: Ford Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) for computer-controlled vehicles.
Read: 5 Tips to Succeed in Automotive Mechanic School
Ford FACT FAQs
1. How can I apply for the Ford FACT program?
You can apply for the Ford FACT program by enrolling online. But first, make sure you meet our admissions requirements!23 If you want more information, speak with an Admissions Representative through our website or by calling 1-800-834-7308.
2. What are the benefits of participating in the Ford FACT program?
The Ford FACT program offers specialized training using the same courses provided to Ford technicians. It helps students earn valuable, brand-specific credentials, enhances their résumé and prepares them for a career in the automotive industry — including at Ford and Lincoln dealerships.
3. Is the Ford FACT program available nationwide?
Yes! Ford FACT training is available at nine UTI campuses across the United States. This widespread availability gives students nationwide better access to this manufacturer-specific training option.
4. Are there any financial incentives or scholarships associated with the Ford FACT program?
Financial aid is available for eligible students enrolling in MSATs like the Ford FACT program.10 Contact UTI’s financial aid office to learn about your options.
5. How does the Ford FACT program help in career advancement within the automotive industry?
The Ford FACT program equips graduates with the skills and certifications needed by Ford and Lincoln dealerships, giving them a competitive edge in the job market against candidates without these credentials. Program completion can qualify graduates for technician roles, and with additional experience and hard work, techs may be able to advance within the automotive industry.
Read: BMW MSTEP: Accelerate Your Career in Automotive Technology
Get Brand-Specific Auto Skills With Ford FACT Training!
The Ford FACT MSAT program allows students to gain specialized training with one of the leading names in the automotive industry.
Graduating from the Ford FACT program can also help build your résumé by helping you earn credentials that are useful for pursuing a career. There are program prerequisites for those interested, including:
- Being an active UTI or NASCAR Tech student or graduate.
- Completion of all Automotive Technology core program courses, with exceptions (see course catalog for details).
Request more information today through our website or call us at 1-800-834-7308 and speak with an Admissions Representative to learn more about Ford FACT!
UTI Campuses That Offer Automotive Technician Training
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1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
6 ) UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on personal credentials and economic factors. Work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer and their compensation programs affect wages. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
8 ) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 51-week Automotive Technology program.
10 ) Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.
11 ) See program details for eligibility requirements and conditions that may apply.
18 ) UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine technician training in a blended-learning format consisting of online lecture courses along with in-person, hands-on lab training.
23 ) Prior to starting or re-enrolling, Tennessee residents attending the Orlando or Houston campus must provide official high school transcripts, GED scores or state-authorized equivalent exam scores. In addition, all students attending the NASCAR Tech campus must provide official high school transcripts, GED scores or state-authorized equivalent exam scores prior to starting or re-enrolling.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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