Craig Kendall is the Recruiting Manager for the Pete Store, a chain of 16 Peterbilt dealerships from Massachusetts to Georgia. Craig talks about how during COVID-19, diesel technicians remain an essential profession because they maintain and repair essential trucks moving freight to retail and consumer levels. Whether it’s moving food or medicine, or hauling away trash and refuse, trucks are responsible.Craig talks about the advancements he has seen in technology in the trucking industry, including automated transmissions, smart cruise control, collision avoidance systems and stability systems. As trucks become more complex, troubleshooting takes on a much greater impact. Technicians need to know how to navigate evolving technologies.Craig also mentions advancement opportunities in the trucking industry, where entry-level technicians may grow their careers to shop foreperson, service writer, service manager or working in the warranty department, sales department or parts department.For those who want to work for a company like the Pete Store, Craig talks about the skills and qualities his company looks for when hiring. These include being hard-working, being innovative, being professional, having good grades and attendance in school, and having a passion for working on machinery. Craig shares tips for how to convey these qualities in an interview and resume.Craig also talks about his predictions for the trucking industry, including alternative fuel and electric vehicles, more autonomy and more driver assist features coming. He talks about how attending a school like Universal Technical Institute (UTI), especially its Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI), can help prepare students for a career at the Pete Store.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/dieselFor information on the Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI) manufacturer-specific advanced training (MSAT) program at UTI, visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-training/peterbilt-ptiFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Jim Elkins is the Regional Service Director of Velocity Truck Centers based out of southern California. He oversees service operations for his region, which includes 4 locations in Arizona and 2 locations in Nevada for the heavy-duty truck dealership.Jim talks about the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, which has caused some larger stores to achieve record numbers, as well as a general uptick with the fleet business. Jim says his company continues to search for and hire technicians for all locations. His company never passes up on an opportunity to hire a good qualified technician.Jim talks about how the industry is evolving and how that affects technician work. For example, new emission rules and laws and new technician technologies make diesel tech work a mix of technical and IT work.Electric vehicles and the rise of platooning are other ways the industry is evolving. Jim talks about how diesel technicians at his company keep up with new developments, such as a Daimler Trucks program the company is piloting.Jim explains why the trucking industry is considered essential, including during times like coronavirus. He talks about career stability and advancement opportunities for diesel techs and how the industry focuses on promoting from within.Jim talks about the job outlook for students graduating from Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and talks about the internship programs Velocity Truck Centers has with UTI. Jim talks about the unique hiring program his company has, where candidates meet with a variety of employees to ensure the people they’re bringing on will fit in with the culture at their company.Jim provides advice for UTI grads and aspiring technicians. He says it’s important to understand a technician role is not a job, but rather a career that requires passion in order to rise up the ranks. Jim advises to believe in what you’re doing and believe in yourself in order to succeed.Jim explains how UTI prepares graduates to enter the workforce, such as the school’s diesel Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs. Jim says the blended learning model with online classes benefits future workers, since so much of industry training is online, as well.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel.For information regarding diesel Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training, visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-trainingLearn about the Cummins Engines Program: https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-training/cummins-diesel-engines and the Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) Finish First program: https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-training/daimler-trucks-finish-firstFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Hendrick Automotive Group Director of Talent Acquisition Chad Harrell talks about how COVID-19 has affected the automotive industry and technicians. He talks about the job stability and security of technician professions, as well as the career growth opportunities auto technicians can aspire to and how to move up by getting certifications and staying up-to-date with the latest technology.Chad explains why auto techs should carefully consider the employers they’re interviewing with and what to look for in companies they’re considering. He offers advice for Universal Technical Institute (UTI) grads and aspiring technicians who are looking for jobs, including soft skills to cultivate, like professional appearance, customer service and a positive attitude.Chad also talks about why Hendrick Automotive Group recruits from UTI and explains the benefits of the blended learning model UTI offers and how that relates to working in the field. He explains why UTI’s teaching of soft skills and the training aids and facilities that are on campus make UTI graduates stand out.For information regarding automotive training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/automotive.For additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Brad Jordan, Crown Equipment Corporation Recruiting Manager for the U.S., talks about the skilled trades, particularly material handling like the work his company does with forklifts. Brad talks about what drives the need for great diesel technicians, including the gap that has been felt with people retiring from the trades.Brad talks about the essential nature of forklift technicians, since they’re doing preventative and maintenance work on forklifts that are responsible for moving products throughout the country.Brad talks about the advancement opportunities at his company, as entry-level diesel techs have been able to move into roles like lead technician, field service manager, service manager, branch manager, sales rep, account manager and even director and vice-president roles. Brad advises students who are looking for diesel jobs to ask employers about advancement opportunities like what Crown offers.Crown also provides continuous training for all technicians, requiring that technicians complete a minimum of 40 hours of training annually so they’re up-to-date on all products and new innovations. Crown also offers tuition reimbursement for technicians who want to get education outside of what Crown offers.Brad explains the traits Crown looks for when hiring, including mechanical, electrical and computer skill sets. He says soft skills like communication are also critical for success.Crown has been a partner of Universal Technical Institute (UTI) for more than three decades. Brad suggests students to take advantage of mock interview opportunities, both face-to-face and virtual, and to consult with employment assistance for help with resume reviews.He also mentions students should connect with employers when they’re on campus at networking events, career fairs and employer spotlight events. Brad mentions GPA and attendance are valued by employers looking for candidates.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/dieselFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsTo learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Ron Crisp, Rush Enterprises HR Director of Tech School Engagement, talks about how the diesel technician industry is essential to the economy. Ron talks about the career growth opportunities diesel technicians can look forward to, illustrated by his own experience at the company over 15 years after having started as a technician.Ron talks about what Rush Enterprises looks for when hiring technicians: attitude, aptitude and attendance. Ron says the company wants to hire someone with a can-do attitude, who works well with others, who wants to learn new things and get better, and who shows up for work on time.Ron offers advice for Universal Technical Institute (UTI) grads and aspiring technicians: find a skill and become a specialist at that skill. He also talks about how the industry is evolving and how online curriculum and a blended learning model at UTI prepares students for continued learning in the workforce.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/dieselFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Mike McSorley is VP of Service Integration and Field Training for Icahn Automotive Group, which owns and operates leading service automotive providers Pep Boys, AAMCO, Precision Tune Auto Care and RPM Automotive. Mike has been with Pep Boys for 40 years, after he started as a part-timer when he was in an automotive program in high school.Mike talks about the essential nature of the automotive technician industry, which powers fleet vehicles and delivery services people rely on.Mike explains what his company looks for when hiring, including qualities like being technically skilled and wanting to grow with the organization. He talks about why becoming a technician is a great career choice because of the advancement opportunities and explains how to move up in the industry. He advises current and aspiring technicians to work hard, develop new skills and acquire ASE certifications.Mike talks about why Icahn Automotive Group is an employer partner with Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and how UTI prepares students to work in the industry. He says students benefit from the quality, up-to-date equipment they get to work on at UTI.Mike also explains how the automotive industry is evolving, including the rise of hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as advanced driver assistance systems on most new vehicles.For information regarding automotive training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/automotiveFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Chris Gioffre is the Service Director of the Catena Motor Car Corp. dealership. Chris talks about the essential nature of the automotive technician profession, citing the work auto techs do on first responder vehicles as being vital. Even during COVID-19, Chris says his company has been building a continuous pipeline of employee candidates.Chris talks about what the dealership looks for when hiring new technicians, especially young apprentice technicians coming out of a program like Universal Technical Institute (UTI). Chris says the dealership wants to hire good people who are professional and have a great attitude – people who will be a cultural fit for the organization.Chris talks about why his company recruits from UTI, which he says prepares graduates to enter the workforce through its career services. Chris also talks about how the blended learning model at UTI helps aspiring technicians.Chris offers advice to UTI grads and aspiring technicians. He says to be hungry, do what you can to be successful and take schooling seriously.Chris also talks about how the industry is evolving, because of things like electric cars, hybrids and telematics. He explains technicians at the dealership stay on top of the latest technology through web-based and instructor-led training.For information regarding automotive training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/automotiveFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Chad Estle is Lead Recruiter for the truck side of TravelCenters of America, the nation’s largest full-service truck shop chain with more than 240 locations in 43 states. Chad explains why diesel mechanics are an essential career, as trucks that move products across the country need preventative maintenance and emergency repair. “If you bought it, a truck brought it,” Chad remarks.Chad talks about the expected shortage of diesel mechanics and how that makes a career as a diesel technician one with job security. Chad talks about the type of career growth diesel mechanics can experience at his company, from becoming a trainer to moving up the corporate ladder.TravelCenters of America has eight levels of diesel technicians and partners with Freightliner to provide free continued education. Diesel mechanics working for the company can also get ASE certifications paid for.Chad says for diesel mechanics who want to find success, a willingness to learn, being able to communicate, being professional and showing up for the job are vital.Chad says the blended learning program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) of both hands-on and digital learning prepares mechanics to work in the industry. As UTI grads enter the job market, Chad recommends that students compare employers to find pay, benefits and long-term career growth opportunities that work for them.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/dieselLearn about UTI's Freightliner manufacturer-specific advanced training (MSAT) Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) Finish First program: https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-training/daimler-trucks-finish-firstFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Whitley Burr oversees corporate staffing and employment for Premier Truck Group, a Freightliner dealership. Since she often works with technical schools and recruits new diesel technicians from them, Whitley shared her industry insights.Whitley says there’s a huge need for skilled diesel techs in the industry, even with the coronavirus pandemic. Since there’s a need to have trucks on the road to move essential supplies like food and medical supplies, the more trucks that are up and running, the more likely they are to break down and require technician work. Whitley says diesel mechanics are an essential part of the Premier Truck Group business.Whitley talks about diesel technician career advancement opportunities and how her company promotes from within, publicizing jobs inside first. Even during COVID-19, Premier Truck Group continues to line up candidates for when jobs open.She advises that those who are looking for jobs should maintain communication with the organizations they’re interested in, so they’re the first one in the door when jobs open.Whitley says her company wants to see longevity and commitment on resumes. The company looks for people who are a great culture fit for their team-based yet competitive culture where the slogan is, “Winners work here.”Whitley says Universal Technical Institute (UTI) does a great job of teaching students soft skills that can help with career advancement outside of being in the shop. UTI also offers a blended learning model that prepares technicians to use online training to stay up-to-date while employed.Whitley says UTI is by far one of the company’s favorite schools to work with. In addition to the advanced technical training at UTI, the emphasis on additional training like communication skills and professionalism helps graduates succeed, Whitley says.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/dieselFor information on the manufacturer-specific advanced training (MSAT) Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) Finish First program, visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-training/daimler-trucks-finish-firstFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/

Kim Walden, Recruitment Manager for Ag-Pro Companies, talks about how the John Deere dealership continues to operate as an essential business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ag-Pro Companies supports farmers and agricultural equipment that help maintain the country’s food supply, as well as construction industry equipment that is used for highway and roadside maintenance.Kim explains what the company looks for in diesel technicians, including good grades and attendance, a stable work history and a clean driver’s record. She recommends that individuals who are looking for jobs convey their ability to be self-motivated and to have a solid educational background to support them.Kim talks about Ag-Pro Companies’ continuous training, including John Deere University’s specialized training on John Deere equipment. She explains that as technology advances in diesel equipment, technicians’ skillsets with a laptop are just as important as a skillset with a wrench. Technicians who want to succeed should also have a positive attitude and a desire to learn.For information regarding diesel training programs at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), visit https://www.uti.edu/programs/dieselFor additional information into specific courses, tuition and admissions, see the course catalogs at https://www.uti.edu/programs/catalogsTo find the nearest UTI school near you, visit https://www.uti.edu/locationsUTI offers employment assistance to students and graduates. To learn more about employment assistance at Universal Technical Institute, visit https://www.uti.edu/support-services/employment-assistanceTo stay up-to-date with some of the latest news regarding UTI, join us on social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTI/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/utitweet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uti.tech/