March 1, 2013 - Military Student Flourishes at Universal Technical Institute in Exton

Russ Johnson at UTI-Exton

March 1, 2013 - Russ Johnson – a native of Chester, just outside of Philadelphia – was always interested in cars. From age 10, he found himself seizing every opportunity to work on cars and learn more about them. Upon graduating high school, however, he chose a different path and entered the military. Johnson served in the Navy for four years before transitioning into the Army National Guard, where he still serves. Over a year ago, with 11 years of military experience, Johnson knew it was the perfect time to take the diligence and commitment that he learned in the armed forces and combine it with his lifelong passion for the auto industry.

In researching automotive technical schools, Johnson discovered Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Exton. He was impressed that it was one of the top technical schools in the region, but wanted to learn more about its programs, its labs and its industry partners. After visiting the Exton campus and seeing the facility firsthand, Johnson was sold.

“With this new career change, I wanted a fresh start,” said Johnson. “I researched and visited schools, but once I toured UTI, I knew I didn’t need to go anywhere else.”

And now, Johnson is flourishing. A student in the automotive technology program, he is also taking courses in the Ford Accelerated Credential Training elective program, which prepares students with specialized training for Ford and Lincoln vehicles. In addition to his studies, he is a member of the student council, in which he serves on the executive board as student director. In this role, Johnson is the liaison between the student body and the rest of the council, incorporating students’ ideas into initiatives and events – including the campus’ annual wing bowl coming up in February. Johnson is also a campus student worker, providing assistance to the facilities department staff. His current projects include the beautification of the labs and hanging new signage that explains each lab course.

Spending more than 12 hours a day on the Exton campus takes deep commitment to UTI and a future career in the automotive industry, but for Johnson, it’s all worth it. “The labs, the instructors, the items and supplies they provide their students – everything at UTI is a cut above the rest. And by serving on student council and working with the facilities department, I’m doing my best to make it an even greater place.”

For more information on UTI’s Exton campus in the Philadelphia area, visit our website and stay connected on Facebook or Twitter.