Relocation of Motorcycle Mechanics Institute another sign of automotive sector growth

Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) has completed its relocation from Phoenix to the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus in Avondale. Campus leaders last week joined state, local and federal officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony commemorating the move that brings all of UTI’s Arizona training programs under one roof. 

MMI students can train as motorcycle, ATV, side-by-side, snowmobile and personal watercraft technicians, while UTI’s offerings include automotive, diesel and welding.

“The relocation of MMI Phoenix to our UTI-Avondale location brings all our Arizona-based training programs and services to a single state-of-the-industry facility,” UTI CEO Jerome Grant said. “That’s better for students, better for instructors, and better for UTI’s bottom line by allowing us to decrease fixed expenses while giving UTI the increased flexibility to support new programs and meet the evolving needs of our students and 35 brand partners.”

The transportation industry is growing quickly, and there continues to be strong demand for trained technicians. Sandra Watson, president & CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, pointed to MMI and UTI as critical to helping Arizona close the skills gap and meet industry needs.

“Advanced automotive manufacturing is helping power Arizona’s red-hot economy, highlighting the importance of advanced transportation technicians,” Watson said. “By bringing its industry-leading Motorcycle Mechanics Institute to the Avondale campus, UTI is ensuring our state’s workforce can meet the needs of an industry that produces high-quality, well-paying jobs.”

Founded in 1973, MMI offers manufacturer-specific training from six leading brands – Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and BMW – and students can complete the core Motorcycle Technician program in just 42 weeks. The new MMI facility comprises nearly 60,000 square feet, including 26 classrooms and labs.

“Phoenix Area Ride Now has employed MMI trained technicians for the past several years,” said Jim Carrozza, Phoenix Area RideNow Service Director. “The technicians we have employed have been well trained and passionate about the industry.”