Premier Truck Group, a subsidiary of Penske Automotive Group, and Universal Technical Institute have collaborated to develop the Premier Truck Group Technician Skills Program, a diesel commercial vehicle technician career skills program for service members at Fort Bliss, a U.S. Army post in El Paso, Texas.

The 12-week program provides hands-on technician training for veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life.     

"This exciting new program is an example of our innovation with industry to solve workforce shortages and build talent pipelines, and of our deep and longstanding commitment to serving our nation's heroes. We thank Fort Bliss for welcoming our collaborative career skills program and Premier Truck Group for its continued partnership," said Jerome Grant, CEO of UTI.

The program will be offered tuition-free to participating service members and features a specialized on-base curriculum with hands-on technical training in a workshop setting, modified to meet COVID-19 prevention guidelines. Students will receive training on diagnostic paths and service technologies unique to the Premier Truck Group, and graduates will earn a Systems Certified Daimler Truck North America credential and be offered immediate employment.

"Veterans have what it takes to be outstanding employees, including a strong, goal-oriented work ethic, ability to work as a team and – in many cases – expertise working with sophisticated equipment," said Rich Shearing, president of Premier Truck Group.

Service members interested in applying or learning more can email premiertruckbliss@uti.edu or call (915) 471-6351. Classes begin January 11, 2021.