On Monday, Universal Technical Institute (UTI) launched the first session of its new BMW FastTrack technician training program at the Exton, Pa. campus, making it the fifth UTI location to begin offering the 12-week advanced training program.
A collaboration between the German automaker and UTI, a leading provider of automotive technician training, BMW FastTrack provides state-of-the-industry training on the latest models in production, utilizing the tools, technology and procedures that are specific and proprietary to BMW vehicles.
According to a news release, any student who completes UTI’s core automotive program is eligible to apply for the additional BMW-specific training, which includes four technologies:
— Workshop
— Electrical
— Chassis
— Drivetrain
The development is welcomed by Kevin Ciccariello, who is service manager at BMW of Devon
“BMW of Devon is excited to have the BMW FastTrack program close to our center,” Ciccariello said in the news release. “The need for qualified technicians who are properly educated and trained to diagnose and repair BMW vehicles is consistent, and this program will help ensure the availability of candidates to support our clients’ repair needs with the proper level of training.”
Once the BMW FastTrack curriculum is complete, UTI graduates can earn seven BMW factory credentials and a BMW Associate Level III Certification — after passing BMW-specific ASE testing and assessments.
The school said graduates may also apply for additional, advanced training in the BMW STEP program, which is offered at BMW locations.
“We are thrilled to be starting classes for students entering the BMW FastTrack training here in Exton,” said Robert Kessler, campus president at UTI-Exton. “Students will be learning from great instructors in their respective fields. This program prepares our graduates to enter the automotive workforce as BMW technicians immediately upon graduation.
“Graduates who go to work at a BMW dealership may also be eligible for tuition reimbursement and other incentives, so it’s a great opportunity for our students to increase their knowledge and prepare for a rewarding, lifelong career,” Kessler continued.
The BMW FastTrack program initially launched at UTI’s campus in Avondale, Ariz., in January. The program is also offered at its campuses in Houston, Long Beach, Calif., and Orlando, Fla.
“There is a need for more highly skilled BMW technicians across our dealer network, so our alliance with Universal Technical Institute is critical to ensuring our dealers have the staff they need, and our customers receive the exemplary service they’ve come to expect,” said Gary Uyematsu, national technical training manager for BMW of North America.
“Upon completion of the UTI program, technicians arrive at our dealers fully equipped to make an immediate contribution as maintenance level technicians,” Uyematsu went on to say.
Source : AutoFinanceNews
