Universal Technical Institute Marks Milestone with First Graduating Classes in Aviation Programs

Celebrating a New Era in Aviation Education at UTI

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) has reached a significant milestone by hosting its very first graduation ceremonies for students of the Aviation program at its Avondale and Long Beach campuses. On June 18, 2025, the graduates celebrated their achievements in what marks a substantial expansion of UTI's offerings in the skilled trades and transportation education sectors.

The Airframe and Powerplant Technician program, launched in 2023, is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to diagnose, repair, and maintain both aircraft and powerplant components. This rigorous 18-month program prepares students not only to understand the complexities of aviation mechanics but also to apply for FAA mechanic certification immediately after graduation.

One of the standout graduates from UTI-Long Beach, Densen Pantal, shared his inspiring journey into the aviation field. His passion ignited during a flight he took as a child from the Philippines to the United States. "The first time I saw a plane, it was awe-inspiring. From that moment, I knew I wanted to be around planes," he reflects. The supportive environment at UTI, along with dedicated instructors, has been instrumental in steering his dream toward reality.

Another graduate, Jimmy Gutierrez, revealed how a historic event fueled his desire to pursue a career in aviation. "Witnessing the space shuttle Endeavor being transported through the streets of Los Angeles inspired me immensely. Although I initially pursued an engineering degree, I recognized my true passion lay in a hands-on aviation career," Gutierrez explained. He expressed gratitude for the unique opportunity at UTI that united his engineering background with practical skills in aviation.

As these graduates prepare to tackle their FAA exams, their ambitions align closely with careers in civilian aviation. UTI-Long Beach Campus President, Anthony Pham, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the inaugural class, stating, "We are incredibly proud of our first graduating students. Their dedication and hard work have laid the foundation for their careers in aviation, marking a significant step in their professional journeys."

Tracy Lorenz, the president of UTI's division, emphasized the strategic expansion of the program, noting that the graduation symbolizes an important chapter in addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in the aviation maintenance industry. UTI has broadened its educational reach by introducing FAA-certified programs at new campuses, thereby ensuring a steady flow of trained professionals into the workforce.

In a show of community support, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson acknowledged the achievements of the graduates, declaring, "We are excited to honor the first graduating class of UTI's Airframe and Powerplant programs. Their technical training prepares them to inspect, maintain, and repair intricate aviation systems. Such achievements not only highlight the importance of vocational training but also foster economic growth in our region."

Beyond the campuses in Long Beach and Avondale, UTI has expanded its aviation programs to other locations, including UTI-Miramar in Florida, UTI-Canton in Michigan, and UTI-Houston, further solidifying its commitment to excellence in aviation education across the nation.

Founded in 1965, Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (NYSE: UTI) has established itself as a leading provider of workforce solutions through high-quality educational programs tailored to in-demand careers. The organization operates a total of 15 campuses in nine states, focusing on a wide array of transportation, skilled trades, electrical, and energy training programs. Additionally, Concorde Career Colleges, part of the UTI family, serves 17 campuses across eight states and offers programs in various allied health fields. For those seeking more information, visit UTI or Concorde.