Rapidly evolving technology in the automotive industry means there is always something new to learn. That’s great news for students at Universal Technical Institute (UTI).
For most students, no matter what your their current experience level is, there’s an opportunity to grow as an automotive technician.
People without previous mechanical knowledge often wonder if they will be able to grasp the curriculum and keep up with the other students. But enrolling at UTI with beginner experience — or even no experience at all — is common. And experience prior to starting classes at UTI does not determine training success.
There’s always something new to learn, even for seasoned veterans who have wrenched their entire lives. After all, technology is a driving force in the design and manufacture of late-model vehicles. That means hands-on training with new technology has become one of the prerequisites for students who are preparing for automotive technician and mechanic careers that are in demand.1,18
Students who come to school with prior experience are accommodated throughout every class, too. They can learn the precise recommended processes and get up-to-date knowledge directly from the manufacturers who help develop the curriculum. And the inclusive learning environment at UTI prepares students to feel confident after graduation. Keep reading to learn more about how to train to become a mechanic despite having no experience.
Benefits of Mechanic Training for Beginners at UTI
For anyone who wants to become a mechanic or technician, UTI teaches foundational skills with techniques informed by the 30+ manufacturers UTI has relationships with.
Students start out with core courses that cover:
- Mechanics theories.
- Auto technician terminology.
- Parts functionality.
As study progresses, each course builds on previous lessons. For students with advanced knowledge in certain courses, they may have the option to test out of the course, though the lectures from instructors and collaborative classwork are irreplaceable.
“Our instructors have worked in the field and add practical experience, which is invaluable,” says Tom Gleason, education manager at UTI in Avondale in Arizona. “There's always something there that students will learn.”
After completing the core program that includes foundational instruction, students may enroll in Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT)
courses.11 These courses feature training with brands like BMW, GM, Ford and Volvo.
Some MSAT courses are paid for by manufacturers. All MSAT courses provide students with more job growth opportunities and enable students to pursue work with the brands they are passionate about.15 You can learn more about student-paid versus manufacturer-paid specialized training programs here.
Learn from the ground up with hands-on training18
Even if you’ve never picked up a wrench, UTI’s labs give you the chance to learn by doing with mechanic training for beginners. From Week 1, you’ll work directly with the tools and technology used in today’s shops so you can build real skills that matter in the industry.
Read more: How to become a mechanic
Supportive instructors who meet you at your skill level
Our instructors understand that everyone starts from a different place. They’ll walk you through each step, explain concepts clearly and make sure you feel confident as you grow your skills.
Flexible programs designed for beginners and experienced students
Whether you’re brand new to automotive repair or already have some experience, UTI’s programs are built to fit your needs. Coursework is structured to challenge you at the right level, so you’re always moving forward.
Industry-relevant skills that build confidence quickly
You’ll learn techniques that employers look for, from diagnostics and engine repair to electrical systems and preventive maintenance. As your skills grow, so does your confidence in tackling real-world automotive challenges.
Opportunities to advance no matter your starting point
No matter where you begin, UTI provides pathways to help you advance. For those who want to continue their education, we offer manufacturer-specific advanced training programs that allow you to work with top brands in the industry.
Resources That Help Auto Technician Students
The instructors and resources students have at UTI help ensure they get the information and assistance they need to prepare for a career as a technician or mechanic. The student services teams are available to assist with anything from on-campus tutoring to veterans’ resources.
Adam Heller, national admissions director for UTI, says the way UTI’s classes are set up is beneficial for students. Since each class is presented one at a time for three weeks, students without industry experience get to participate in immersive learning that gets them up to speed.
“You have intense training that is very hands-on and very in-depth for accelerated learning,” Adam says. “What you might learn in 12 to 15 weeks in manufacturer training would take up to five years otherwise.”
Attending a trade school like UTI can also be a cost-effective way to get the valuable hands-on training you need in the field. An education at UTI takes less time than a traditional four-year university. If tuition is a worry, there are scholarships available for trade school students as well.10
One Graduate's Story
Eric Bessette knows firsthand what it's like to enroll at UTI as a student with zero prior mechanic work experience. Eric, who is now an advanced training manager at UTI in Arizona, entered UTI as a student in 1996. After serving in the Navy, Eric wanted to pursue a vocational school and enrolled in UTI with the desire to learn in-demand skills that would translate to a meaningful career.
He saw that as technology became more sophisticated in the cars his friends were purchasing, the need for professional auto technicians to do even basic tasks like oil changes or brake work was becoming essential. He believes that his UTI education was a powerful addition to his resume, and he says the technician credentials he earned during his MSAT study enabled him to hit the ground running upon graduation.6
Eric says students with any type of skill level who have an interest in technology will be intellectually stimulated at UTI, since they get to work with manufacturer tools that may not be available in independent shops.
UTI classes may be very different than what students might expect from auto technician training.
“If you like tinkering with technology, that’s what cars are nowadays,” Eric says. “They’re like very heavy cell phones, all control modules and all electronic. It’s not righty-tighty, lefty-loosey like it used to be. It’s a lot of critical thinking. You can have two different cars with the same complaint, and there could be five or six different things causing that complaint.”
By attending UTI, students get to learn specialized electronic diagnostics using current technologies and tools.
Keys to Success for Any Skill Level
It's increasingly rare for students to arrive at UTI with familiarity with late-model vehicle technology. Because most vehicles today are difficult to work on as an amateur, many students have never seen what’s under the hood of a car, let alone tinkered with it. UTI instructors make it their mission to be very involved with students so they get the care and help they need to flourish.
“Anybody who comes here is capable of learning,” Tom Gleason says. “I have a student who came in and knew nothing about vehicles. He’s thriving now and doing really well in his upper-level classes. Attitude and effort are important.”
Tom adds that for people who have no previous experience but who want a career that is exciting and challenging, UTI may be a great avenue to pursue.
“People who like to do things with their hands are a natural fit, but we also want to consider those who are looking at not wanting to go into a typical college career,” Tom says. “If they don’t find an interest there but want something that will stimulate their minds, this field is a very high-level service diagnostics field. You have to be agile and adaptive and have a high level of problem-solving and critical thinking skills.”
Let’s elaborate on some of the keys to success:
Stay consistent with your training
Success in automotive training comes from showing up and putting in steady effort. Consistency helps you absorb new concepts and build a strong foundation that will carry you through your program and into your career.
Ask questions and use instructor support
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. UTI instructors are here to guide you, answer your questions and share their industry expertise, so don’t be afraid to speak up and take advantage of their knowledge.
Practice regularly to build confidence
The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel working on vehicles. Repetition helps turn new skills into second nature, so you can approach each task with greater confidence. It could be one of the most important parts of mechanic training for beginners!
Take advantage of hands-on learning opportunities
Automotive training at UTI is designed to get you working with real tools and equipment from the start.18 Hands-on practice makes it easier to connect classroom lessons to real-world applications.
Keep a positive mindset to grow your skills
Learning something new can be challenging, but staying positive keeps you moving forward. With the right mindset, mistakes become opportunities to learn, and every step helps you get closer to your goals.
Advice on How To Succeed From UTI Instructors
Want real-world tips for building habits that can help lead to success? At UTI, instructors don’t just teach, they coach. In this video, two of our experienced educators share what it takes to stay on track and make the most of your training.
Start Your Mechanic Training Journey With UTI
If you have an interest in working as an automotive technician, no matter what your skill level is, you can apply online today or request more information about studying at UTI.
Our Admissions Representatives are happy to help answer any questions you might have.
Source Links:
Tools and tech: https://www.uti.edu/blog/automotive/automotive-technician-tool-list
Diagnostics: https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-a-car-diagnostic-test
Takes less time: https://thebestschools.org/degrees/trade-schools-vs-college/
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.