Education

Explore Training for STEM Careers With UTI’s Summer Ignite Program

by UTI Editorial Team•3 min read
Updated JUL 24, 2025

UTI’s no-cost Summer Ignite Program is returning for the graduating class of 2025. Check out the details here.

Explore Training for STEM Careers With UTI’s Summer Ignite Program

Class of 2025, what are your plans this summer? Come explore what training for a STEM career is like with Universal Technical Institute’s three-week Summer Ignite Program.1 This is a great way to experience our programs at no cost during summer break. You’ll learn in a fun, interactive, hands-on environment that can provide you with industry-aligned experience.

We’re offering this program at all UTI campuses for those interested in training for careers in the automotive, diesel or motorcycle industries. Note that start dates will vary by campus.

But this isn’t just a summer thing! In fact, if you successfully complete the program and choose to attend one of UTI's programs after you graduate high school, you can receive course credit toward your education! It’s a great way to test drive UTI at no cost to you and potentially give you a head start toward training for a career.32

Why Should Students Attend the Summer Ignite Program?

It’s fun! Students get to train on real vehicles and equipment, interact with industry professionals and make new friends with similar interests in the automotive, diesel and motorcycle worlds.

For those  uncertain about what their next step might be after high school, the Ignite Summer Program could be a great opportunity to learn more about these in-demand fields.

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In UTI’s Summer Ignite Program, You’ll Dive Into Topics Like:

  • How vehicles are designed and manufactured
  • How gasoline and diesel engines work
  • Fundamental diagnostic, maintenance and repair skills

Who Can Attend the Summer Ignite Program?

The Summer Ignite Program is open to the graduating class of 2025 who live within 50 miles of a UTI campus and fulfill admissions requirements. No prior experience working on autos, diesels or motorcycles is required.

When Is the Summer Ignite Program?

Each campus will offer one or two three-week programs during summer break. Dates vary depending on the campus, so contact us to learn those dates and reserve a spot.

How Does the Summer Ignite Program Help High School Students?

The Summer Ignite program teaches curriculum that strengthens students’ science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills. From chemistry to physics, the core principles of STEM are integrated throughout the program as students learn about technical systems and mechanics. When you get to apply those skills on machinery like cars, diesel engines and motorcycles, learning can become enjoyable and exciting.

Apply for the Summer Ignite Program

Ditch boring days on the couch or being stuck with nothing to do. Make your summer break a great one by getting hands-on automotive, diesel or motorcycle experience through UTI’s Summer Ignite Program. You might find a new passion that could turn into an exciting career!

If you already know you love working with your hands and are interested in auto mechanic training, motorcycles or the diesel industry, our Summer Ignite Program could give you a head start on your postsecondary education as you get that much closer to pursuing your technician goals.32 Click here for registration details.


1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
32 ) Summer Ignite participants must satisfy standard eligibility criteria prior to acceptance into UTI.

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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Imagine waking up each day excited to work in a career you’re passionate about – one where your hands-on skills make a real impact. UTI’s vocational trade school can help you gain the skills and confidence to pursue what you love.