July 10, 2013 - Building Expertise, Employability with UTI’s BMW Service Technician Education Program

BMW STEP student Anthony Cusumano learning about the latest BMW technology in UTI’s advanced training program.

Where do professional auto technicians turn for specialized, brand-specific training that enhances their capabilities and appeal among employers? For UTI graduate Anthony Cusumano, the answer is the BMW Service Technician Education Program (STEP) at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Orlando.

“I’ve learned so much through UTI’s automotive program, but I wanted to take my training to the next level,” said Cusumano. “When I found out about BMW STEP, I knew it would be a valuable asset for my resume and my future as a dealership technician.”

The 24-week, post-graduate course of study enables students to explore the latest in BMW’s renowned technology, before some dealers have access to the training. With their tuition funded by BMW North America, STEP students can look forward to graduating as BMW Level One certified technicians with plentiful job prospects.

“The training is accelerated and – like all UTI’s courses – really hands-on. And, our instructors are knowledgeable and experienced as technicians,” he explained. “Together, we’re studying some of the most advanced automotive technology in the world, going in depth to understand BMW’s electrical and computer systems. I feel like I’ve learned more at this stage of my education than ever.”

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. The 22-year-old Long Island, N.Y. native is one of only a few accepted to the program, which is limited to UTI students with high grades, stellar attendance and clean driving records. And even after they’ve been accepted, BMW STEP students must pass an entrance exam and extensive interview. But according to UTI Graduate Employment Specialist Angie Quinones, it’s all worth it.

“With hands-on training on the most high-tech cars anywhere and tuition sponsored by BMW, STEP participants are getting a jump start on their careers,” she said. “For focused, high-achieving students like Anthony, this is a chance to become a highly qualified technician who is sought after by dealers throughout the country.”

BMW STEP is one of the Manufacturer Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs UTI’s Orlando campus offers. Students can choose from other brand-specific programs such as Ford Accelerated Credential Training and Nissan Advanced Technology Training.

Set to graduate from this competitive program in August, Cusumano is certain UTI’s STEP training is the best way to use his passion for the BMW brand to build a successful career at a dealership back in New York.

“Getting into the BMW post-grad program has been a game changer for me,” he explained. “In the fall of 2011, I moved to Orlando with a little automotive training and a lot of passion for cars. Now, I’m so close to the job I want … and a future full of opportunity.”