HOUSTON (August 8, 2017) While some Houston-area teens were getting a tan this summer, 14 local high school students got a jumpstart on their career. These fourteen students participated in the inaugural “Summer Ignite” program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Houston. The free program gave the students a taste of what attending UTI and – ultimately – working as an auto technician is all about.
Broken into two 3-week courses, the program introduced students to the basics of working on engines and various aspects of the undercar, including alignment. Ignite concluded late last week with students being tested on their knowledge. Those who passed will receive a discount on their tuition if they decide to enroll in UTI after graduation.
Some program participants already have a passion for automobiles, many have grown up working on cars. After completing the UTI program, these students are more certain than ever that by learning the skills of the trade this passion for cars can become a stable career.
Jobs are plentiful in the transportation sector. Nationwide, the federal government projects there will be more than 1.2 million technician jobs in the transportation industry by 2024. That means an estimated 37,000 new openings for technicians are created each and every year.
“These are great jobs that require a skill, but not necessarily a 4-year college degree,” said Darrin Brust, UTI Houston campus president. “Our goal with the Summer Ignite program was to connect with high school students and open their eyes – and the eyes of their parents – to the career opportunities available across this growing field.”
Some of these students haven’t always enjoyed high school, but this summer program has helped them to find their place among fellow problem-solvers and hands-on learners at UTI, and these teens are excited to pursue careers in this in-demand field.