Universal Technical Institute:
Industry trade publication, Fleet Owner, highlights the proactive efforts employers are utilizing to close the skills gap by hosting technicain competitions and underwriting scholarships:
“Ryder has also announced it has donated $20,000 to the Universal Technical Institute Foundation to help meet the urgent and growing demand for trained diesel technicians. The funds will support students who attend the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus in Lisle, Illinois.
As part of its relationship with UTI, Ryder held a “Next Top Tech Challenge” at the UTI-Lisle campus. At the event, nine UTI students worked alongside Ryder technicians to participate in technical challenge stations and took a written exam to test their knowledge and skills based on various mechanical failures.
“The automotive and diesel technicians we train can diagnose, repair, and maintain the complex, high-tech systems that power today’s vehicles and play a critical role in helping companies manage the costs of their fleet and transportation systems,” said Ian Hardie, employment services director at UTI-Lisle. “Organic growth in the industry and the looming retirement of Baby Boomer employees means the demand for these highly skilled employees has never been stronger.”
Fleet Owner, “Technician competitions and financial support help fill shop positions,” September 30, 2015