May 17, 2012 - For this UTI graduate, it was all worth it

Miguel Ayon, a graduate of UTI-Rancho Cucamonga, is now working at Union Pacific Railroad.

When Miguel Ayon thought about his future, he often pictured himself as an architect. He initially wanted to attend California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) to pursue a degree in architecture, but once he started researching the time commitment and costs, he realized there were other avenues to pursue his interests. He enrolled at a community college to get some initial coursework under his belt and decide what he’d like to do moving forward. During that time, Ayon saw a television commercial advertising Universal Technical Institute’s offerings, and he immediately picked up the phone to schedule a tour of the Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. campus.

“As soon as I toured the campus, I was hooked,” says Ayon.

Having previously worked at Knott’s Berry Farm as a ride operator, Ayon always had an interest in mechanics, engines and how certain things like air conditioning all came together to make things run. Going to UTI, he says, has helped him feel confident in his current job as a mechanical services operator with Union Pacific Railroad.

“I know what I’m talking about, and I don’t doubt myself,” says Ayon. That confidence has prompted Ayon to continue working his way up in the profession. He is now working toward becoming a machinist with Union Pacific because he’s encouraged by his job and his co-workers to shoot high. “Nothing is out of your reach if you set your mind to it,” says Ayon.

Having a job in the field he loves is something that Ayon is proud of and doesn’t take for granted. He is pleased with his salary and benefits at Union Pacific, and notes that friends often ask him if they should consider attending UTI. “If you like knowing how things work and you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, then UTI has everything you need,” says Ayon.

Ayon notes that his education is an investment that’s worth the time and money.

“Someone I admire once told me that the best investment one can make toward oneself is education,” says Ayon. “You never know where your education will take you.”

Want to learn more about training to become a technician? Visit www.uti.edu today!