Universal Technical Institute (UTI-Orlando) recently partnered with Mercedes-Benz of Orlando to highlight the value of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education in transportation careers.
Nearly 100 students enrolled in a UTI program, parents and high school counselors attended the partnership’s Future Tech event at the Mercedes dealership in Maitland. During the session, UTI graduates who work as Mercedes Benz technicians discussed what to expect from a career in the transportation industry, the plentiful, good-paying jobs available, the rewarding work, , and the skills a modern service technician needs, including professionalism, communication and problem solving, as well as knowledge of STEM .
Attendees also heard about the latest innovations in automotive technology and got to Mercedes’ latest technologies, including night vision.
“Many people still view a career as an automotive technician as something that requires a little basic knowledge of engines and a few tools,” said Max Steiner, admissions representative at UTI-Orlando. “The reality is that today’s cars today are computers on wheels. Beyond GPS and Bluetooth – which have almost become standard – many cars help us park, brake, steer and alert us to blind spots. These vehicles require technicians who are knowledgeable in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and can use these skills to problem solve.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, technicians with these kinds of skills are in demand: The nation will need more than 1.2 million automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine service technicians between 2012 and 2022. The industry will have an average of more than 37,000 job openings every year to help meet the need.
“Finding technicians with the right skills is a difficult task,” said Ed Taylor, service manager, Mercedes-Benz of Orlando. “Our hope is that by hosting events like Future Tech, we can bring attention to a profession that is growing and put people with a passion for cars on a path to successful careers.”
