Nissan Helps Aspiring Technicians Reach Their Goals

PHOENIX, Aug. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Nissan Americas donated $150,000 to the Universal Technical Institute Foundation that will assist students who have graduated from the auto tech core program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), and seek further, specialized manufacturer training for service technicians working at Nissan and Infiniti dealerships.

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The donation funds the Nissan Automotive Technical Training scholarship, and covers tuition costs for the nine-week program that includes a short-term internship at a Nissan or Infiniti dealership. Each scholarship is worth $5,000.  Since introducing the NATT scholarship in 2009, the program has awarded 48 grants to deserving students.

"We always welcome an opportunity for industry partners to make a difference in the lives of UTI students," Don Ableson, UTI Foundation chairman, said. "We're thrilled to begin another year with Nissan support knowing it will go to students who deserve and need the assistance."

This donation to the UTI Foundation marks the third consecutive year Nissan has provided support for the NATT program.  With this donation, Nissan's total contribution to the UTI Foundation is $450,000.

"Every year there is a need for more than 600 technicians at Nissan and Infiniti dealerships across the U.S.," said John Spoon, vice president, Parts and Service, Nissan North America. "These are important jobs, because they are on the front lines with our customers, and that's why Nissan is committed to helping aspiring technicians receive the training that they need to deliver best-in-class service."

The NATT Scholarship Program is available at UTI's NASCAR Tech, Boston, Houston, Orlando and Sacramento campuses. Students who fit the criteria, complete the application and obtain the endorsement of an employer, guidance counselor or instructor are encouraged to apply.

UTI is a provider of technical education for individuals pursuing careers as professional automotive, collision repair, diesel, marine or motorcycle technicians. Students will be chosen who truly understand and exhibit the traits necessary to have a successful career with Nissan/Infiniti dealers.

Additional application information is available on the UTI Foundation website at www.utifoundation.net.

About UTI Foundation:

The UTI Foundation, a 501(c)(3) Arizona non-profit, is the umbrella organization for all Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (NYSE: UTI) not-for-profit initiatives and is dedicated to raising funds to further its mission and strategic goals. The UTI Foundation supports technical education for the automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle, marine and NASCAR industries through scholarships, grants, career development and other special programs. For more information, visit www.utifoundation.net.

About Nissan Americas:

In the Americas, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and was recognized as an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2010 and 2011. More information on Nissan in North America, the Nissan LEAF and zero emissions can be found at www.nissanusa.com.

Contact:
Lisa Nicita
602.980.4441

SOURCE Universal Technical Institute Foundation