June 10, 2013 - From Tractors and Farming to Technician and Tour Coordinator

Stacy Bienasz proudly displays her diploma from UTI.

Stacy Bienasz grew up on a farm. She recalls that her introduction to real-life, hands-on work led her to realize that she wanted to pursue a career as a technician. Bienasz heard positive things about Universal Technical Institute from close friends and family who had graduated from there. After touring the Glendale Heights campus she was very impressed, especially with the diesel technician labs and program.

“UTI is well known throughout the country and I knew employers would love to see it on my resume,” said Beinasz.

She enrolled at UTI-Glendale Heights and while taking classes she would practice her studies on the farm by repairing and rebuilding tractors, and maintaining farm trucks. Later she was offered a job at a small independent automotive shop in Wheaton, Ill. where she worked for two years. Even after graduating, she continued to work at the auto shop, usually working more than 60 hours a week. Along the way she also worked as a machinist for a hydraulics pump company and as a fleet technician for Budget Truck Rental.

Unfortunately, a car accident left her with a rotated spine and only allowed her to perform light duty work. However, Bienasz believes that when one door closes another one opens.

She received a call from UTI with a job offer as tour coordinator . “As much as I loved my career as a technician, I saw going back to UTI as a great job opportunity and a way to continue working in the industry,” said Beinasz. “I would still be able to be around trucks and cars and the smell of diesel.”

She believed that in her own way, she would be able to serve as a role model and help other individuals find their own personal success stories. UTI contributed to more than just her technical success, it also allowed her to learn some important career skills.

“UTI taught me how to be professional, timely, neat and organized, to use my resources, and always take advantage of learning from others,” said Bienasz about UTI’s training. “I also learned the importance of determination and perseverance and to always try to improve. More than that, UTI taught me that I could push myself.”

Today, as UTI’s tour coordinator, she feels as if it is more than just a place to work. She gives credit to her fellow staff and instructors who are always helpful and supportive and feels lucky to be surrounded by people who share similar interests. “I can still be around things that I am passionate about and help others find their own successful path. Seeing and helping students succeed is a great feeling.”

Although technician is not part of her job title, she certainly enjoys weekend projects and fixing vehicles of family and friends as often as she can.

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