Universal Technical Institute Celebrates 100th Graduating Class from Porsche’s Technology Apprentice Program

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), and Universal Technical Institute are celebrating the graduation of the 100th class from the Porsche Technology Apprenticeship Program (PTAP). This marks a significant milestone in Porsche’s collaboration with Universal Technical Institute and their ongoing investment in world-class technicians and dedication to supporting Porsche Centers in delivering exceptional customer service.

“Consistently investing in education and technical expertise for employees across America is vital,” said Timo Resch, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “Congratulations to the technicians, trainers and Porsche Center partners in reaching this milestone. It is a testament to our commitment to excellence and to the talented individuals who keep our customers’ vehicles performing at their best.”

PTAP is offered exclusively through a partnership with Universal Technical Institute, which supplies instructors and helps identify and recruit top automotive students across the country. Since its inception in 1999, PTAP has graduated over 1,000 technicians, placing them in full-time roles at more than 200 Porsche Centers across the U.S. With demand for skilled technicians at an all-time high, PTAP graduates enjoy stable, well-paying careers in a high-demand industry.

“PTAP exemplifies what’s possible when education and industry work in true partnership. By aligning our training with Porsche’s evolving workforce needs, we’re helping Porsche Centers secure the world-class technicians who drive dealer performance and customer satisfaction, Universal Technical Institute Division President Tracy Lorenz stated, “This milestone underscores a proven model—students gain cutting-edge skills that accelerate their career mobility, and the Porsche network benefits from a talent pipeline ready to make an immediate impact.”

Vince Stephens, Service Manager at Porsche Naples in Florida, and a graduate of Universal Technical Institute’s first PTAP class, shared, “PTAP was a defining turning point in my education. Growing up working on cars with my dad sparked my passion, but being part of the very first PTAP class showed me what Porsche pride and craftsmanship are all about. The instructors inspired us with their experiences, the program set the standard for working at a high level, and that foundation shaped my entire career—from technician to service manager. I’m incredibly proud to have been there at the beginning, and even more proud that I now get to hire graduates from the program as it reaches its 100th class.”

PTAP is a 23-week, Porsche-funded program designed to prepare the next generation of Porsche Certified Technicians. Training takes place at PCNA’s state-of-the-art facilities in Atlanta, Easton, Pennsylvania and Eastvale, California. With a 12:1 student-to-instructor ratio, PTAP offers personalized instruction and hands-on experience with Porsche vehicles ranging from the iconic 911 to the Macan Electric. Graduates typically achieve Bronze Certification within their first year, positioning them for long-term success in Porsche Centers nationwide.

Porsche covers tuition and housing and provides part-time employment opportunities during training.

For more information about PTAP and career opportunities with Porsche, visit porsche.com/usa/aboutporsche/jobs/dealertechnician.

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to follow us on Microsoft Start.