UTI Grad Nestor Martinez: Our World Relies on Diesel Technicians
While times might seem uncertain, the demand for diesel techs remains. Here's the inspiring story of UTI diesel grad Nestor Martinez.
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Ever dream of working on some of the most respected names in the trucking industry, including Cascadia, Freightliner and Western Star? With UTI’s Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs,15 you can get specialized training to prepare for exciting careers with leading brands.1
Among these programs is the Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) Finish First program, which is designed to teach students how to maintain, diagnose and repair DTNA products. This program is offered at UTI’s Avondale, Arizona, and Lisle, Illinois, campuses, and starting in summer 2021 it will also be available in Orlando, Florida.
If you’re looking for manufacturer diesel training on the East Coast, UTI Orlando could be the perfect choice. Here are 5 things to know about the DTNA Finish First program coming to the Sunshine State.
1. Prepare for a Career with Daimler Truck, a Top-Ranked Manufacturer
Daimler Truck North America is ranked as the No. 1 heavy-duty truck manufacturer in North America. With more than 500 service locations nationwide, the brand is a leading producer of medium-duty trucks and specialized commercial vehicles.
As a student in the Finish First program, you’ll train on DTNA brands that are some of the most respected names in the industry:
- Detroit Diesel
- Freightliner Trucks
- Western Star Trucks
After graduation, you’ll be eligible to work at a DTNA dealer upon meeting their hiring requirements. DTNA careers may offer a variety of benefits, such as mentoring, tuition and tool reimbursements, and benefits including medical insurance, a 401(k) plan, and paid vacations and holidays.14
2. Complete Your DTNA Training in Just 12 Weeks9
The DTNA Finish First program is designed to build upon the knowledge gained in UTI’s 45-week core Diesel program. To qualify, you must be an active UTI student and meet all admission requirements for the program.
In just 12 weeks, you’ll take a series of courses that covers everything from HVAC diagnostics, to electronic troubleshooting, to Freightliner truck repair. You’ll learn from passionate, experienced instructors who are committed to equipping you with the skills needed to pursue Daimler Truck careers.
3. Get Hands-on Training with Top Brands in the Trucking Industry
DTNA supports the Finish First program by providing some of the latest vehicles and training aids for students to work on. This ensures you’ll be up to date on the most current technology as you start your career in the field.
Your courses will cover a variety of topics, including:
- Heavy-Duty Truck Systems: Learn about the types of clutches used on DTNA vehicles, the importance of correct wheel seal installation, how to prepare vehicles for suspension adjustment, and more.
- HVAC Diagnostics & Business Class M2: Learn to locate and identify heating system components, how to perform vehicle inspections, and more.
- Electrical, Electronic Troubleshooting and Electronic Systems: Learn to read DTNA diagrams and schematics, locate key components, and troubleshoot.
- Cascadia & Western Star Truck Models: Learn to identify Cascadia and Western Star models, and perform vehicle inspections, service, testing and repairs.
4. Gain Skills Employers Are Looking For
The curriculum of this program is developed in conjunction with DTNA, so you know you’re getting the advanced skills and certifications the manufacturer needs from its own employees. Students can also utilize UTI’s Career Services team, which works with national dealerships, distributors and other employers to identify potential jobs for graduates.1
According to David Akins, training manager for Freightliner of Arizona, “It helps that [UTI] has the Finish First program. We’re highly invested in that because we’re a Freightliner dealer. We get a lot of those students here.”
Learn more about why David chooses to hire UTI grads as Freightliner mechanics in the video below:
5. Earn Expert Level Technician Status
Last but certainly not least, graduates of this program have the opportunity to earn Expert Level Technician status, which is Daimler’s highest ranking. Grads earn this classification after passing qualification tests and module-based training for the following certifications:
- Heavy-Duty Truck Systems
- Electrical Troubleshooting
- Electronic Systems
- HVAC Diagnostics
- Business Class M2
- Cascadia
- Western Star
Overall, these certifications can give grads a competitive advantage over other entry-level technicians when entering the workforce.
According to Juergen Steinhart, senior manager of service training for DTNA, “Daimler Trucks North America’s technician demand is large and growing.” By completing the Finish First program and earning these certifications, you’ll be prepared to fill the demand and pursue a career doing something you love!5
Ready to Start Training?
With more than 25,000 estimated average diesel annual job openings in the United States,43 there’s no better time to train for a career in the industry. If you’re ready to get started, request information to get in touch with an Admissions Representative, who can guide you along the way.
YOU COULD START YOUR EXCITING NEW CAREER AS A MECHANIC OR TECHNICIAN TODAY.
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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.
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.
9 ) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program.
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 is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
15 ) Manufacturer-paid advanced training programs are conducted by UTI on behalf of manufacturers who determine acceptance criteria and conditions. These programs are not part of UTI’s accreditation. Programs available at select locations.
43 ) For Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an annual average of 25,600 job openings between 2023 and 2033. Job openings include openings due to net employment changes and net replacements. See Table 1.10 Occupational separations and openings, projected 2023–33, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, viewed November 4, 2024. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
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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