Answers to 11 Commonly Asked Questions About NASCAR Tech

Are you drawn to the excitement of NASCAR racing or the detail-oriented world of CNC machining? NASCAR Technical Institute may be the school for you.

Opened in 2002, NASCAR Tech is the world’s first and only school that offers a complete Automotive Technology program with NASCAR-specific motorsports training. This 146,000 square-foot campus is located in the heart of Mooresville, North Carolina, which is known as “Race City USA.”

If you’re considering attending NASCAR Tech, you likely have some questions, which is a good thing! Before choosing any school, it’s important to find answers to all your questions so you can make an informed decision about your future.

11 Commonly Asked Questions About NASCAR Tech

1. What Programs Does NASCAR Tech Offer?

NASCAR Tech offers three core programs: CNC Machining Technology, Automotive Technology, and Welding Technology.

The CNC Machining Technology program is a 36-week program where students gain the knowledge and skills needed to prepare for a career as a computer numerical control (CNC) machinist.1 Created in conjunction with Roush Yates Engines, a leading brand in the industry, this program teaches students how to craft sophisticated performance parts and components from raw materials.

NASCAR Tech also offers a 48-week Automotive Technology program, where students learn to maintain and repair both import and domestic vehicles. What makes NASCAR Tech unique, however, is that it also offers a 15-week NASCAR Technology program to give automotive students the opportunity to learn motorsport fundamentals ranging from high-performing engines and aerodynamics to fabrication and welding.

Speaking of welding, the 36-week Welding Technology program is available at NASCAR Tech as well. Students train in the lab using cutting-edge tools and technology. Developed in conjunction with Lincoln Electric, the curriculum teaches students the four main arc welding processes to help them train to become combination welders.

2. What Will I Learn in NASCAR Technology Training?

Students in the NASCAR Technology program get training ranging from engines, fabrication and welding to aerodynamics and pit crew essentials. They learn to keep a car on the track, including what equipment goes in pit boxes, chassis options, fueling, cooling and dynamometers.

In this program, students get a chance to work with state-of-the-industry Lincoln Electric welding equipment and race car setup technologies. Through the elite Spec Engine program, select students even have the opportunity to help instructors build engines that compete in NASCAR-sanctioned races.

3. How Much Time Will Be Spent Hands-on Learning?

A good portion of your time at NASCAR Tech will be spent learning hands-on, whether you’re taking the CNC or automotive route. Students start by learning core concepts through methods including Blackboard Ultra, and the lab is where they get to put their knowledge into action.

For example, students in the NASCAR Technology training may learn about the different components of race cars before spending time in the lab gaining hands-on experience with sheet metal and ductwork fabrication.

The combination of digital learning through Blackboard Ultra and hands-on training in the labs is designed to prepare students for a successful transition into the field. As the industry continues to evolve due to changes in technology, UTI and its schools are evolving right alongside it in order to give students the digital and hands-on skills today’s employers are looking for.

4. What if I Can’t Afford to Pay for School?

Before signing up for any type of training, it’s important to consider cost. Education is an investment, and it’s important to know what you’ll be responsible for financially so you can plan accordingly.

At NASCAR Tech or any of UTI’s schools, your tuition will vary depending on the program you decide to take. Learn more by visiting our Tuition page, where you can access our complimentary Tuition Estimator. This tool can help you to determine financial aid eligibility¹⁰ and calculate any out-of-pocket costs.

Additionally, there are several ways you may be able to lower the cost of your education. These include:

• Applying for financial aid: Financial aid is assistance from government and private sources to help students pay for their education. To see if you qualify, you must first fill out a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
• Scholarships & grants: UTI will make more than $15 million in scholarships and grants available to students in 2024. In addition, our Scholarships & Grants page has links to scholarship information from various organizations, including the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, TechForce Foundation and Imagine America.
• Working part-time: Many students work part-time while completing their program. Not only can this help cover living expenses, it can also provide valuable work experience to add to a résumé. We have Career Advisors at each campus who can help you find a local job that doesn’t interfere with your training.

If you have any questions related to finances, such as applying for financial aid or scholarships, reach out to one of our Financial Aid Representatives. Our team is here to help provide you with all the necessary information so you can feel at ease and focus on your training.

5. Does NASCAR Tech Offer Housing?

Like all UTI campuses, NASCAR Tech offers housing assistance for students.

At the Mooresville campus, Student Services works with Collegiate Housing Services (CHS) to help students secure housing located conveniently close to campus.

CHS offers a shared housing program where rent, furniture and basic utilities are included in your monthly housing payment. Each student is on an individual lease, which allows apartment transfer flexibility. The typical setup is four students in a two-bedroom apartment, and some CHS arrangements allow private rooms or options for those 21 and older.

To learn more details about housing arrangements at NASCAR Tech, as well as the referral housing program offered by CHS, visit our Mooresville housing page. To learn about housing options across all UTI campuses, visit our general housing assistance page.

6. What Is CNC Machining and What Will I Learn in the Program?

Computer numerical control (CNC) machining is a process in which pre-programmed computer software directs the movement of factory machinery and tools. This process is used with a variety of complex machinery, including mills, routers, lathes and grinders.

In the CNC Machining Technology program, students gain the training and skills needed to prepare for a career as a CNC machinist. In 36 weeks, they learn skills ranging from how to read blueprints and interpret geometric dimensioning to the programming, setup and operation of CNC mills and lathes.

Created in conjunction with Roush Yates Engines, this program equips students with the skills today’s employers look for. In the lab, students train with industry-preferred tools and technology from brands like Mastercam, Mitsubishi Materials and Mitee-Bite.

To learn about the types of careers students may be able to pursue with this training, check out our career guide.

7. What Are the Safety Issues Around CNC?

CNC machining has the potential to be dangerous, just as many industries do, when safety procedures are not followed.

Using unstable equipment or failing to use a machine properly, such as reaching inside of it while it’s running, can pose significant threats to machinists and operators. Fire hazards or slips and falls around machinery are other common safety hazards that can occur.

The key to operating safely in a CNC environment is education. In the CNC program at NASCAR Tech, students spend a significant amount of time learning about safety procedures before they set foot in the lab.

In the Basic Machine Shop Skills course, students learn how to safely operate equipment and work in a machining environment. They also learn the importance of wearing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and following these standards when operating in the lab. This prepares them for what they’ll experience in the field.

8. What Is the Median Salary of a Technician?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $47,770 in May 2023.²⁵ When it comes to CNC machining, the BLS reports that the median annual salary for computer numerically controlled tool operators in the U.S. was $48,550 in May 2023.³⁴ This means half of automotive technicians and CNC machinists earned more and half earned less.

While these numbers can help give a general idea of how much a technician can earn, they are not exact representations of every technician. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

To learn more about the salaries of automotive technicians and CNC machinists, go to www.bls.gov.

9. How Will This Training Help Me to Work for Companies in the Industry?

UTI and NASCAR Tech work closely with industry leaders and manufacturers to help create our curriculum and ensure students are training with the same tools and technology they’ll use in the field.

While employment with a particular company cannot be guaranteed, NASCAR Tech works hard to provide students with opportunities to connect with brands in the industry. Attending campus job fairs and completing Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training programs11 are just a few ways students can help get their foot in the door with potential employers.

Additionally, UTI’s Career Services department can help in your search for a full-time job after graduation. We tap into our network of national dealerships, distributors and employers across the country to identify potential jobs for graduates.

Learn how NASCAR Tech grad Madison Conrad pursued a career with Roush Yates Engines after graduation:

10. Are There a Lot of Female Techs in NASCAR?

Women play a critical role in the skilled trades, including the world of NASCAR!

According to NASCAR Tech instructor Stacey Evans, there’s something special about what women can bring to the table. “As a woman, you’re often more detailed and accurate,” she says. Women typically aren’t in a rush for everything — which can be of incredible value in this industry. The attention to detail that comes naturally for many women is needed in today’s fast-paced industry, which often doesn’t leave room for mistakes.

Stacey encourages women who are considering a career path in NASCAR or any skilled trade to not be afraid to go for it. “If it’s truly what you want to do, push for it and be the best you can possibly be. It’s the only way to get ahead,” she says.

Learn more about Stacey’s story in this blog post.

11. What Are the Chances of Going to Work on a NASCAR Team?

NASCAR Tech grads have gone on to work in many different aspects of the industry.24 Blaine Hardy is an example of a graduate who used his training to pursue a career in racing.

From a young age, Blaine knew he wanted to one day work for NASCAR professionally. After serving in the U.S. Marines, he moved to Mooresville to attend NASCAR Tech because he knew that’s where he needed to be to help him break into the racing industry.

Attending NASCAR Tech allowed Blaine to get his foot in the door at the Team Penske Racing facility, where he now works alongside other NASCAR Tech grads. The team is on the road more than 100 days a year and, according to Blaine, they’re like a family.

Blaine’s advice for anyone looking to pursue a career path similar to his is to not give up. Challenges will come but there are opportunities out there. You just have to find them.

If you are passionate about working in motorsports, work hard and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. While NASCAR Tech cannot guarantee employment on a motorsports team, it’s a great way to learn the skills you’ll need to know.

Learn More About NASCAR Technical Institute

Ready to start training at NASCAR Tech? Head to our website to request information or give us a call at 1-800-834-7308. One of our Admissions Representatives can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.