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From Military Service to Servicing Fords: Daniel Fuller’s Journey Into the Automotive Industry

"My UTI graduation has helped me become more competent in the knowledge that I have for working on vehicles."

To describe Daniel Fuller in one word would be “dedicated.” Before joining the automotive world, Daniel served in the Marine Corps, but his interest in cars began long before his military service, as he used to work on vehicles with friends.

"I decided that working on cars would be a good transition for me after I got out of the military," Daniel explains. Inspired by a fellow marine who attended Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and pursued a career in automotive technology, Daniel decided to follow a similar path.1

Embracing Education and Hands-On Experience

Daniel enrolled in UTI’s Automotive & Diesel Technology program, where he gained a solid foundation in automotive repair and maintenance. He then advanced to one of the manufacturer-specific training programs, the Ford FACT program, which he found particularly valuable for its focus on electrical systems and hands-on learning.18

"I enjoyed FACT mostly for all the electrical portions that we learned," says Daniel. The program not only provided him with technical skills but also prepared him for the practical aspects of working at a dealership, including writing up orders and treating customers' cars with care.

Thriving at Galpin Ford

Today, Daniel works alongside many skillful technicians and master technicians at Galpin Ford. His daily responsibilities include assisting in taking out, disassembling, reassembling and reinstalling transmissions. This hands-on work is what Daniel enjoys most. "I enjoy mostly the hands-on portion of it and being able to take something apart and know that I can put it back together without needing too much help," he shares.

The Impact of UTI and Ford FACT

The education and training Daniel received at UTI and through the Ford FACT program have been instrumental in his career development. "My UTI graduation has helped me become more competent in the knowledge that I have for working on vehicles," Daniel notes. Additionally, it has given him the confidence to demonstrate to his family that he can achieve his goals through hard work and dedication.

Daniel Fuller's story is an inspiring example of how skills learned in the military can be useful when training for an automotive career. His journey highlights the importance of continuous learning, practical experience and educational resources like UTI and Ford FACT. For anyone considering a career in automotive technology, check out our Automotive Technology program or reach out to us here


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1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.2) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.6) UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on personal credentials and economic factors. Work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer and their compensation programs affect wages. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.7) Some programs may require longer than one year to complete.8) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 51-week Automotive Technology program.9) Does not include time required to complete a qualifying prerequisite program such as UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program.10) Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.11) See program details for eligibility requirements and conditions that may apply.14) Incentive programs and employee eligibility are at the discretion of the employer and available at select locations. Special conditions may apply. Talk to potential employers to learn more about the programs available in your area. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.15) Manufacturer-paid advanced training programs are conducted by UTI on behalf of manufacturers who determine acceptance criteria and conditions. These programs are not part of UTI’s accreditation. Programs available at select locations.18) UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine technician training in a blended-learning format consisting of online lecture courses along with in-person, hands-on lab training.20) VA benefits may not be available at all campus locations.21) GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.24) UTI prepares graduates to work as entry-level automotive service technicians. Some graduates who take NASCAR-specific electives also may have job opportunities in racing-related industries. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.79) UTI aviation maintenance programs prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA mechanic certification. Graduates who don’t obtain certification may have fewer career opportunities. Some graduates get jobs in aviation or related industries other than as aviation maintenance technicians. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment, salary or FAA certification.128) UTI will pay for certain third-party FAA certification exam fees for qualifying students. See catalog for details and requirements.

Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

*Registration Fee Waiver will apply to any student who enrolls by July 31, 2025, with a start date between March 31, 2025, and September 25, 2025.

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