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Lane Griffon Is Creating a New Automotive Legacy

"It does take a little bit to get where you want to be, but it's worth it. "

Lane Griffon's father passed away in 2009, but his son honors his dad's memory every day at work. Lane's dad knew a lot about cars, but Lane had never learned much about them. After graduating high school, he decided to enroll in  Universal Technical Institute (UTI) where he could study the Automotive Technology program and pursue what his dad had been interested in.1

Lane says he had a great experience with the majority of the instructors, particularly his teachers for brakes and air conditioning courses. He says the teachers at UTI “kept the class alive,” creating a supportive environment for students, including those who were new to auto technology like Lane was.

In addition to the automotive program, Lane also completed the Diesel Technology program and the Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) Program.

Today, Lane is a technician at Sterling McCall Chevrolet, formerly Munday Chevrolet. He says his dad would be proud of the path he has taken.

“It does take a little bit to get where you want to be, but it's worth it,” Lane says.

How Lane Got Here

After graduating UTI, Lane worked at Discount Tire, then at a company that rebuilt hydraulic cylinders. He has been at his current dealer since 2015 and says he has used what he learned at UTI in every position he has had.

Today, he specializes in AC trim, electrical and AC compressors. His role requires excellent time management and customer service skills, which were traits that were also emphasized in his studies at UTI.

Lane takes continuing classes as a technician, including hands-on classes, online classes with an instructor and self-study online classes. Since technology and electronics are constantly evolving, continuous education is essential for technicians today.

Lane says one aspect to his job that he enjoys is the camaraderie among his coworkers. He says experienced technicians are always willing to help newer ones out, whether it's lending out tools or providing advice.

“We all have a pretty good connection,” Lane says. “Everybody gets along really well. We try to keep a light mood in the shop, not angry.”

No Technician Experience? No Problem

If you're like Lane was, and you don't have a lot of experience with cars but think they'd be interesting to learn about, you can pursue your passion at UTI. No experience is needed to enroll. You'll learn everything you need to know, no matter what level of knowledge you bring with you to class.

Learn more about the programs Lane completed at UTI by reading below or head to our programs page.

Automotive Technology program: The Automotive Technology Program is 51 weeks long.7 Students learn basic automotive mechanics skills, including how to diagnose, maintain and repair a variety of local and foreign vehicles. Hands-on lab work enables students to tinker under the hood. Supportive instructors help every step of the way.18

Diesel Technology program: UTI's Diesel Technology Program teaches students how to service large trucks and engines, diagnose and repair diesel fuel systems and perform hydraulic services. Students get hands-on training on equipment from some of the world's biggest diesel brands.18

Ford FACT program: The Ford FACT Program is one of UTI's Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs. After completing the core Automotive Technology Program, students can enroll in MSATs. During this 15-week program, students do hands-on training on a variety of Ford vehicles and earn more than 80 credentials.8

UTI is here to help with financial aid information, housing assistance, military benefits and more. Contact a UTI admissions representative to see where UTI can take you.


A New Career Path Starts Here

Take 60 seconds and find out how you can get trained.

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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