From Student to Instructor: Sammy Smythe's Diesel Journey

How many of us knew what we wanted to be when we grew up? For Sammy Smythe, it’s always been about diesel.

Starting at just 14 years old as a gas station attendant, Sammy’s passion for the industry is contagious as he passes it down to the next generation as a Diesel Technology instructor at UTI.¹

The UTI Experience: From Student to Pro

Sammy began his journey with UTI as a student himself, where he found not only education but also mentorship and guidance that fast-tracked his career.

"I got really close to my Diesel instructors. They gave me lots of great advice and great experiences,” he shares.

Before even graduating, Sammy was able to find part-time work with support from UTI’s Career Servicesand his instructors. Now, he's on the other side of the table, sharing his wealth of knowledge with his students.

"My instructors didn't let up on me at all,” said Sammy. “I take everything I learned from them, being an instructor now."

The Diesel Industry Opportunities

The diesel industry is vast and vital, keeping our world moving in many ways. And for trained technicians, the opportunities are there.

"The diesel industry is huge,” says Sammy. “The diesel industry is what keeps the economy going, keeps the world turning — whether it's heavy equipment, whether it's forklifts, whether it's marine, whether it's rail industry."

Sammy emphasizes that certifications earned at UTI— thanks to collaborations with top companies — follow students throughout their careers and can help open doors .

"The school (collaborates) with amazing companies as well that will help boost you and take you there in a much faster direction that you don't have to wait 10 years, 20 years."

Key Skills: Persistence

What does it take for trained diesel technicians to succeed in their field? According to Sammy, it’s all about showing up, having passion and pushing through challenges.

"The most important skills to have as a diesel tech, especially in today's world, is just being able to show up on time, being able to have that passion and have that drive,” Sammy explains. “It doesn't matter what struggles you're going through. It's just showing up."

Sammy’s mantra? Persistence is key.

"Persistence is one thing I always tell all my students," he says.

Mentorship: Beyond the Classroom

Being a mentor is a role Sammy cherishes. He supports his students through school and life challenges, helping them relocate and navigate their new careers.

"Being a mentor to my students has been a really cool thing,” he says. “I've grown really close with a lot of my students, helping them through not only challenges with school but outside of school as well."

The gratitude from his students means the world to him, and he carries their thank-you notes with him every day.

"When they graduate and come back to me and tell me ‘thank you’ or give me cards, it’s a lot more meaningful than I think they realize. I carry them every day with me in my backpack," says Sammy.

Ready to Drive Your Diesel Career Training?

Sammy Smythe’s journey from a UTI student to a Diesel instructor is a testament to the power of education, mentorship and persistence. If you’re ready to dive into hands-on, dynamic career training, we’re ready to help! Check out our Programs page to learn more.¹⁸