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Highlighting the Importance of Skilled Workers in the Economy

In a recent statement delivered on February 5, 2026, Jerome Grant, CEO of the Universal Technical Institute, Inc., underscored the substantial contributions of skilled collar and healthcare professionals to the American economy. His comments came in celebration of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time dedicated to acknowledging and promoting the significance of these essential workers.

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) stands as a national leader in providing workforce training programs, aiming to educate approximately 32,000 students within the current academic year. This education is split between its two primary divisions: UTI, which focuses on transportation, skilled trades, electrical, and energy education; and Concorde Career Colleges, which specializes in healthcare sectors including dental, nursing, and allied health fields.

In his remarks, Mr. Grant noted, "Skilled collar and healthcare workers are the pillars of communities across the United States and touch every aspect of our daily lives. Yet, far too many employers face an urgent shortage of these workers, with more jobs available than qualified personnel to fill them.” This highlights a critical issue in the current job market—one where employers struggle to find qualified candidates for the increasing number of available positions.

The need for skilled labor is becoming even more pressing in light of current economic trends. As artificial intelligence continues to disrupt formerly stable white-collar jobs, many individuals are reconsidering traditional pathways to career success. In this context, the roles associated with skilled collar professions—those requiring specific technical training or skills—offer promising and stable employment opportunities for many years.

Mr. Grant articulated his pride in UTI's role in addressing the workforce needs of the nation. He stated, "Universal Technical Institute is honored to partner with the nation’s employers to prepare the workforce our economy depends on, day after day, year after year. As we celebrate CTE Month, it’s imperative to raise awareness of and acknowledge the expertise that these roles require. These positions not only meet the demands of today’s job market but also provide a viable path to achieving the American Dream."

The emphasis on skilled training reflects a broader shift in how education and workforce readiness are perceived within the U.S. As the labor market evolves, positions that once may have been overlooked are gaining recognition for their vital contributions to the overall economy.

On a separate note, Universal Technical Institute also announced its first quarter earnings for Fiscal Year 2026 on February 4, providing insight into the company’s ongoing efforts to foster connections between education and employment. With the added potential of expanding its offerings, UTI is dedicated to not only training the workforce of tomorrow but also aligning closely with industries in need of qualified professionals.

For more information about Universal Technical Institute, including their extensive program offerings, please visit their official websites at www.uti.edu and www.concorde.edu. You can also connect with them on LinkedIn and X for further updates on career advancement opportunities and industry insights.