Celebrating Three Decades of Partnership: UTI and Crown's Impact on Skilled Workforce Development
The partnership between Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and Crown Equipment Corporation has flourished over the past 30 years, creating a significant impact on the skilled workforce in the material handling industry. This collaboration has not only supplied the industry with expertly trained technicians but has also fostered numerous career opportunities for students.
Crown Equipment, renowned for its material-handling solutions, has consistently recruited UTI graduates, placing them in crucial roles such as service, training, and management across its extensive network of branches. The collaboration enjoys a rich history of engagement, with Crown actively participating in UTI-sponsored career fairs and events aimed at honoring veterans. Recently, they have joined UTI's Early Employment Program, allowing students from eleven campuses to gain practical industry experience while still pursuing their education.
Brad Jordan, the Director of Talent Acquisition at Crown Equipment, emphasized the value of their partnership with UTI, stating, "By working closely with UTI, we can build relationships with talented individuals equipped with industry knowledge and technical skills." This connection has allowed Crown to uphold high service standards while helping UTI graduates secure meaningful career paths.
In the past five years, Crown has hired hundreds of UTI graduates, many of whom have ascended to leadership positions within the company. These alumni reflect the remarkable career growth opportunities facilitated by the partnership. Roy Kobayashi, a former UTI student and now the regional recruiting manager at Crown, remarked, "Attending UTI was one of my best decisions. Their training equipped me to excel as a service technician at Crown." Kobayashi's journey through various roles within the company showcases how effective this partnership is in transforming educational training into professional success.
Tracy Lorenz, President of the UTI division, praised the collaboration as a vital element of UTI's mission to connect students with top-tier employers that truly value their skills. "For over 30 years, Crown has provided meaningful career opportunities to our graduates, helping them flourish into skilled technicians and industry leaders. We are honored to collaborate with a company that shares our resolve for workforce development and student success," said Lorenz.
Additionally, Crown Equipment's commitment goes beyond job placement; they have generously donated essential equipment, such as reach trucks and forklifts, to UTI campuses. This ensures that UTI students have access to high-quality training resources, reinforcing the practical skills they acquire during their education.
As UTI looks to the future, they remain dedicated to maintaining and expanding relationships with industry leaders like Crown Equipment. This ongoing commitment not only helps students cultivate rewarding careers in skilled trades but also supports the burgeoning demand for qualified professionals in the industry. With the continuing evolution of technology and logistics, the need for skilled technicians will remain critical, and partnerships such as this will play an essential role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
In summary, the enduring collaboration between UTI and Crown Equipment Corporation is a testament to their dedication to creating pathways for students to build successful careers. Together, they are empowering the next generation of skilled technicians and ensuring a robust pipeline of talent for the material handling industry.