Carolyn Frank Receives Recognition as a 2026 Phoenix Titan 100 for Leadership Success
In a remarkable recognition of her leadership, Carolyn Frank, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Universal Technical Institute, has been named one of the 2026 Phoenix Titan 100. This award highlights the top executives in Phoenix who exhibit outstanding leadership, vision, and influence in their respective fields. The Titan 100 program serves to honor C-suite executives, and Carolyn's achievements have made a significant impact, particularly in the realm of workforce solutions.
Jerome Grant, CEO of Universal Technical Institute, expressed his pride in Carolyn’s contribution to the company’s growth and transformation. He praised her for being a driving force behind UTI's evolution into a versatile organization with numerous campus locations and award-winning programs. "Her continuous pursuit of excellence has resonated throughout the company," said Grant, who congratulated Carolyn on achieving this accolade.
In the last three years, Carolyn has played a pivotal role in modernizing UTI's HR strategies from a decentralized model to a comprehensive, centralized function aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and fostering long-term talent development. She took key steps such as the establishment of Centers of Excellence and restructured talent acquisition processes. Additionally, her initiatives in learning and development, integrating enterprise HR systems, and promoting change management principles have significantly bolstered leadership coherence and employee engagement across UTI.
“Being named a Titan 100 is an incredible honor, and I see it as a testament to the HR team's efforts at Universal Technical Institute,” Carolyn noted. “When we invest in our employees and foster an environment of growth and support, everyone benefits—from our dedicated staff to our students and the employer partners we collaborate with.”
Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO, emphasized that the Titans of this year are more than just successful individuals; they embody resilience and a transformative spirit that leaves a lasting legacy for future generations. Zawmon articulated that the title of 'Titan' is not simply a label, but rather a mindset focused on courage, integrity, and the commitment to making a meaningful impact.
The 2026 Phoenix Titan 100 Awards celebration is scheduled for September 24 in Phoenix, where Carolyn Frank will be recognized among other outstanding leaders in the region. As Universal Technical Institute continues to shape the future of workforce education across the country, the contributions of leaders like Carolyn underscore the organization's commitment to excellence in education. Founded in 1965, UTI stands as a leading provider of workforce solutions, helping students prepare for in-demand careers across various sectors, including transportation, skilled trades, and healthcare.
Through programs offered at its numerous campuses, UTI provides comprehensive training designed to meet the needs of both students and employers alike. With a strategic focus on quality education and support services, the institute strives to empower next-generation professionals in the evolving workforce landscape. As Carolyn Frank’s leadership journey continues, her recognition as a Titan serves as an inspiring reminder of the critical role effective HR strategies play in organizational success and employee satisfaction.