Next Start

June 23

GRADUATE TESTIMONIALS

Diverse Opportunities Make a Difference: Mooresville Graduate Devin Smith

As part of the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) family of schools, NASCAR Technical Institute (NTI) began operating under the UTI brand in April 2025.

If you’ve heard of CNC machining, you probably know that it has a significant impact on numerous industries. But you may be wondering what path can prepare you for this dynamic and exciting field. Look no further than Devin Smith’s journey. Devin is a Universal Technical Institute (UTI) graduate who has made a name for himself at Mitsubishi as a project engineer.1

Devin Smith's story begins with a desire to expand his skill set. While he had design training from his previous schooling, he had no experience with CNC machines. However, after working at a few CNC shops, he decided he wanted to learn how to run these machines himself.

This is where UTI Mooresville came in — he enrolled in the CNC Machining Technology program to gain the knowledge and practical experience he needed to succeed in the industry.

One of the things that stood out to Devin most during his time at UTI was the instructors. He describes them as "very knowledgeable and willing to share their knowledge with the students."

Each instructor had their own area of expertise, which allowed Devin and his classmates to build on their knowledge with each new class. This personalized approach helped him feel confident and well-prepared to pursue a career after graduation.

After completing his education, Devin earned a job at Mitsubishi Materials USA as a project support specialist. His main goal at the time was to learn about the different machines in the shop and enhance his knowledge. Over time, he was promoted to a project engineer and now works directly with clients to develop machine processes and tooling solutions for their projects.6

His experience at UTI helped him gain a foundational understanding of CNC machining and prepared him for the industry. “I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today without it,” he shares.1

For Devin, the most exciting thing about the CNC machining industry is its diversity. "There's different opportunities whether it be operating machines, programming, using different parts, different machines, different techniques, different tools," he says.

Aspiring professionals have the opportunity to prepare for careers that match their skills and interests, whether they're interested in basic operator positions or advanced programming and machine design.


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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.6) UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on personal credentials and economic factors. Work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer and their compensation programs affect wages. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.7) Some programs may require longer than one year to complete.8) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 51-week Automotive Technology program.9) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program.10) Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.11) See program details for eligibility requirements and conditions that may apply.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.18) UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine technician training in a blended-learning format consisting of online lecture courses along with in-person, hands-on lab training.20) VA benefits may not be available at all campus locations.21) GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.24) UTI prepares graduates to work as entry-level automotive service technicians. Some graduates who take NASCAR-specific electives also may have job opportunities in racing-related industries. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.79) UTI aviation maintenance programs prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA mechanic certification. Graduates who don’t obtain certification may have fewer career opportunities. Some graduates get jobs in aviation or related industries other than as aviation maintenance technicians. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment, salary or FAA certification.128) UTI will pay for certain third-party FAA certification exam fees for qualifying students. See catalog for details and requirements.

Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

*Registration Fee Waiver will apply to any student who enrolls by July 31, 2025, with a start date between March 31, 2025, and September 25, 2025.

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