Automotive Mechanic vs. Automotive Technician: Key Career Differences
Learn the distinction between an automotive mechanic and an automotive technician. Read our blog to find out why these differences are important to understand!
If you live in or around Austin, Texas, and are considering a career in the skilled trades, Universal Technical Institute (UTI) has a campus in Central Texas where students can train in automotive, diesel, welding and HVACR technologies.1
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or an adult thinking about a career change, here are the key things to know before enrolling at UTI Austin.
In this 51-week program,7 course topics range from simple engine systems to power and performance machines to hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles. In a blended learning format, students will learn online and gain hands-on practice in labs as they prepare for a career in the auto industry after graduation.
In just 45 weeks,7 students in the Diesel program will gain the skills needed to maintain and repair large, powerful equipment. Course topics will range from diesel engine service and repair to electronic systems and transport refrigeration.
The 36-week Welding program is designed to prepare students to become combination welders. Utilizing equipment developed by industry leader Lincoln Electric, students will learn four different welding processes and gain skills that can be applied to many different industries.
This 39-week HVACR program teaches students to install, service and maintain residential and commercial heating and cooling systems. Students also prepare for EPA Section 608 certification testing.
Each of these programs is designed to be completed in less than two years, so students can begin pursuing a career sooner.
Like the training offered at all UTI campuses, UTI Austin’s curriculum is aligned with what these industries need. This means graduates will be able to feel confident knowing they have gained skills that are sought by today’s employers. UTI is already known by employers in Texas. For example, John Norlington, technician recruiter for Sewell Automotive, considers UTI grads when seeking employees.
“When I’m looking for prospective technicians to hire, I’m looking for people who want to be the best and to be a part of a team that is the best,” he shares. “This is an industry that’s very heavy in demand. If you’re willing to put forth the effort, the energy and this is something you like to do, I think that it’s a great career to get into.”
In 2020, UTI announced its transition to a blended learning model, which combines hands-on training with instructor-facilitated online instruction. Not only has this format made going to school more accessible for many students, it also prepares them for the style of learning utilized in the field today.
Alongside UTI’s 15 other campuses, the Austin campus follows this innovative learning approach. In fact, it was the first campus to open after the transition, and it is specifically catered to blended learning.
Unlike many schools, learning at UTI doesn’t take place in lecture halls. Besides going online on their own schedules to experience instructor-led demonstrations, students also learn by doing, which happens in our state-of-the-industry labs.
To create an environment for hands-on learning, UTI’s campuses are equipped with industry-current tools and technology used in automotive, diesel, welding, HVACR and related fields. The Austin campus is no different. Whether you decide to take the automotive, diesel, HVACR or welding route, you’ll spend your days putting your knowledge into action in the lab. Not only does this make training more exciting, it also prepares students for some of the scenarios experienced in the field.
As you train, you’ll have the support of instructors who have experience working in the field. Our instructors are passionate about what they do, and they go above and beyond to mentor students so they’re equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to begin a career after graduation.
Get to know UTI instructors by watching our Mentor Series on YouTube.
Training is just the start. UTI’s Career Services team is available to assist UTI Austin students with:
While UTI cannot guarantee employment, its employer relationships nationwide give students and graduates access to a strong network of opportunities.
If you’re ready to get on track toward a career, we’re here to help. UTI has teams dedicated to supporting you on your journey — whether you need help navigating financial aid or finding employment during or after your training program, our Support Services team is available to assist you.10
To learn more about how UTI can support you in striving for your career training goals, request information to get in touch with an Admissions Representative today.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.