Ethan and I met today as scheduled. To help Ethan make informed choices, we researched information about the various training options, the availability of disability services, and financial aid.
School Decision
Together, we researched the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (recommend by Mr. Althaus) and the Universal Training Institute (UTI) we learned about earlier. Today, we learned that the MMI is a division of UTI. MMI is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
According to the data cited on GetMyFuture per the U.S. Dept. of Labor Statistics, employers prefer employees with formal training. This information corroborates Mr. Althaus's report.
Training Speciality Decision
We learned that students at MMI complete the core training and then choose a specialty. They can choose to work on bikes made by Asian manufacturers (e.g., Kawasaki), European makers (e.g., BMW, Ducati), or U.S. makers (e.g., Harley). Ethan is interested in working on Harleys.
According to the placement statistics, those with specialty training in both late and early model Harleys fair better (82%) than those with training in only the late-model Harleys (72%). Those with Honda/Yamaha specialization fair even better (100%). Ethan will review this information with his folks to decide. Right now, he's leaning toward the Harley specialty.
Disability Services
Together, we reviewed information regarding the availability of disability services at UTI. (See below). According to the school website, reasonable accommodations are provided to those who qualify and who self-disclose. The school will accept an IEP for documentation of disability, and Ethan states he feels comfortable disclosing.
