Since 1965, the faculty and staff at Universal Technical Institute have been training future mechanics and technicians in a variety of fields. One division of UTI is the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute with campuses located in Orlando , Florida and Phoenix , Arizona .

As it says on their website, "With support and endorsements form all five major motorcycle manufacturers, you'll be provided with the latest training materials and products." When the Corbin's Ride On crew recently had the chance to tour one of MMI's campuses, it was obvious that there was indeed a "cutting-edge" sense of professionalism. The MMI Industry Relations Manager, Terry Emig, told us that MMI, "stays current with technology because of the partnership we have with the industry." He also noted that if they didn't have the confidence of the top five motorcycle manufacturers, they couldn't be who they are today.

It's easy to see why MMI is so successful. Terry mentioned that the teachers are passionate about what they do and the students see that passion and commitment. Regarding the faculty, Stephanie Guettler says, "They are the best teachers ever!" We also had the chance to talk to several of the students on the campus, and they carried that same sense of enthusiasm. When we asked a few of them why they came to MMI, we found them eager to share their stories. Chris Abb told us the reason he chose MMI was that all the shops he visited told him that formal education and training is a must if you want to work in the motorcycle industry. Joseph Walker mentioned that he wanted to be his own boss and control his own destiny. When speaking about the students and faculty, Jim Saraceno, Chief Harley-Davidson Instructor, said, "We are a tight-knit group, and this is a place where dreams come true for students."

Terry Emig reiterated that now is a good time for people to get into the motorcycle industry because, "More than anything, the technology is incredible and now people can have the formal training that MMI provides." Terry also told us that one reason bike technicians are in short supply is due to so many changes in motorcycles in the past few years. Fuel injection is a good example. Technicians must now also know how to operate a computer. To give a brief idea what is expected, a training program at MMI consists of a 57-week course of study including 27 weeks of core training. In addition, while there is traditional classroom instruction, approximately 80% of the training is hands-on! This ensures graduates will be fully prepared to meet the challenges they will face in the industry.

Another great aspect of training at MMI is the virtual guarantee that you will receive a job when you finish the program. Turea Coleman, MMI Job Placement Director, said the facility has a 90-95% placement rate for its graduates. Currently, there are more than 4,000 students on the two campuses.

Finally, because MMI has such a great relationship with so many major motorcycle manufacturers, students get to go "hands-on" with the latest models and newest technologies on bikes donated to MMI from the manufacturers themselves. Consequently, MMI's goal is to supply the industry with cutting-edge-trained technicians who possess the knowledge to ensure dealerships keep their customers satisfied.

Remember, MMI is the only school formally endorsed and supported by Harley-Davidson Motor Company, American Suzuki, Yamaha Motor Corp. USA, and Kawasaki Motor Corp. USA. If you would like more information on admission, financial aid, or have any other questions about attending Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, visit them on the web at www.uticorp.com .

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