From UTI Grads to Diesel Employers: What These Alumni Look for in Hiring

Let's rewind to September 1976. That's when Hugo Rodriguez first stepped onto a Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus.¹ Nearly 50 years later, he's still going strong, now working as a corporate recruiter for California Truck Centers.

Hugo always had a passion for trucks.

"I always wanted to work on trucks and Fresno Truck Center was alongside the freeway,"  he explains. “The colorful trucks on display always caught my eye.”

Determined, Hugo persisted until he landed a job there. Today, he's celebrating his 48th year with the company.

From Being a UTI Grad to Hiring Them: Hugo’s Journey

Hugo spent 15 years as a tech, 10 years in contract maintenance and as a service writer, followed by 21 years as a service manager—all at Fresno Truck Center. But it's his latest role as a full-time corporate recruiter that he finds most fulfilling.

"I'm able to give back to techs an industry that's been very good to me," he says.

He's a big advocate of UTI’s Daimler Truck North America Finish First specialized program, as in just 12 weeks it provides training mirroring what dealers provide in their facilities.⁹ This specialized training at UTI focuses on Daimler Trucks North America brands like Freightliner and Western Star, provides hands-on experience in maintaining, diagnosing and repairing heavy-duty trucks and helps students prepare to earn certifications. According to Hugo, this program benefits companies like his because of the time saved with an employee who is already familiar and trained on DTNA chassis, engines and transmissions.

"If I get an application from a UTI student that's gone through the Auto/Diesel program and did Finish First, they're going to be at the top of the list," Hugo emphasizes.

Sam Hawkins: UTI Graduate and Training Guru

Meet Sam Hawkins, another UTI graduate now helping train the next generation. After graduating from UTI, Sam returned to his home state of Idaho and started his career as a test electrician, working on large machines of many different types.

"Coolest thing I worked on in my career would have to be locomotives," Sam shares.

Sam's path eventually led him to Gordon Truck Centers, where he now serves as the sole trainer for 19 locations and manages training paths for around 240 technicians.

 "It all started in an afternoon diesel program in high school," Sam recalls. That’s what got him to enroll in UTI’s Diesel Technology program. Competing in SkillsUSA earned him scholarships to attend UTI, paving the way for his successful career.¹⁰

"UTI will give you the basics you need to enter the workforce with good knowledge and a base to learn whatever career you choose, whether it’s trucks, equipment or even locomotives," he says.

Why These Employers Love UTI Graduates

Both Hugo and Sam highlight the value of hiring UTI graduates.

"We look for UTI graduates due to the structure and accountability that is needed to pass through the phases," Sam explains. Good ethics, a willingness to learn and a solid attendance history are highly sought qualities.

As Hugo emphasized, programs like DTNA Finish First help UTI grads stand out. The training these students receive closely mirrors the real-world scenarios that technicians face when working on Freightliner and Western Star trucks and other DTNA brand products.

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Technicians

The trades need skilled technicians, as Hugo emphasized. He passionately speaks about the critical role of the transportation industry.

"Look around your house. Everything in your house was brought in by a truck at one time or another," he points out.

With a shortage of technicians looming, both Hugo and Sam are on missions to steer young people toward the trades.

As someone who trains new technicians, Sam expressed he doesn’t expect them to know everything, but he does expect a good attitude with a willingness to keep learning—even after completing training.

Sam's advice?

 "Get in there and don’t be afraid to ask questions,” he says. “No one knows everything, but learning from your peers in the industry will get you a lot further."

Hugo built a long, successful career, but it didn’t immediately start out that way. His first job at a Datsun (now known as Nissan) dealer only lasted two weeks before he was let go.

 “I was determined to learn from it and make sure that never happened again,” Hugo shares.  And what did Hugo learn? Sentiments similar to Sam’s experience:

 “Learn to hustle, learn to stay focused, and give it 100% every day,” he shares.

Feeling Inspired? Start Your Journey With Diesel Training.

Reflecting on their journeys, Hugo and Sam see the importance of trades more than ever. "That's why when they asked me to take this role on, I thought it's time to give back and encourage kids to get into the trades," Hugo says. His visits to colleges, high schools and UTI campuses are filled with enthusiasm and hope for the future.

Their stories are shining examples of how UTI can set the stage for an exciting career in the transportation industry. Their journeys demonstrate the power of education, persistence and a never-give-up attitude.

Check out our Programs page to see more about our Diesel training. To see what manufacturer-specific training we offer, check out our Specialized Training page.