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Picking the Right Path for Me: Drew Dailey’s Decision to Attend Trade School

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

Oftentimes when thinking about the steps needed for a career, a four-year school comes to mind. However, this is not the only way to receive career training. Drew Dailey, a Mitsubishi Materials USA project sports specialist and graduate from Universal Technical Institute in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a perfect example of someone who chose to pursue his passion for hands-on work rather than follow the traditional four-year degree path.

Drew, originally from Michigan, was initially enrolled in a four-year college when he stumbled upon the CNC tool industry online. He found UTI, a trade school that offers a 36-week CNC Machining program, and decided to take the leap and move down south to Mooresville, North Carolina.1

Drew was drawn to the industry because it was hands-on and he wanted to learn a versatile skill set.

“It’s a cool industry to be in because you get to cut cool stuff. There’s so much to this industry that you can go all the way as far as cutting wheels for cars or making parts for an airplane or medical stuff,” Drew explained.6

Drew's family was very supportive of his decision to attend trade school as they saw his excitement for the CNC Machining program and now, his success in his career. Drew had a great experience at UTI and recommends it to anyone interested in learning about CNC machines or preparing for a career in the skilled trades.1

“If you’re right out of high school and you don’t know about CNC machines or anything, I definitely would recommend going there."

Drew’s decision to complete a trade school program ultimately led him to a career at Mitsubishi Materials USA, where he works as a project sports specialist and helps with computer-aided manufacturing projects and test cuts.1 The role requires collaboration with a diverse team of engineers, which keeps Drew on his toes and always learning.

“It’s a pretty cool industry because there’s just so much you can do,” Drew said.

Drew’s experience emphasizes that trade school can be an excellent choice for those willing to pursue their passion and develop a specific skill set. UTI provides hands-on experience and industry-aligned training that can prepare graduates for in-demand jobs across the country and even across the world.


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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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