Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) recently relocated from Phoenix to the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus in Avondale.
The event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony with local, state, and federal officials in attendance, according to Chamber Business News.
Students at MMI can train as technicians for motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, watercraft, and other personal vehicles. UTI offers training for automotive and diesel technicians and welders. All of those programs can be offered in a central location now due to the move.
"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," Jerome Grant, CEO of UTI, 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."
MMI was founded in 1973, Chamber Business News reported. The institute offers manufacturer-specific training from BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha.
"Advanced automotive manufacturing is helping power Arizona's red-hot economy, highlighting the importance of advanced transportation technicians," Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, 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."
The new facility encompasses nearly 60,000 square feet, according to Chamber Business News. The space includes 26 classrooms and labs. Students can complete the core Motorcycle Technician training program in 42 weeks.
"Phoenix area RideNow has employed MMI-trained technicians for the past several years," Jim Carrozza, RideNow Phoenix service director, said. "The technicians we have employed have been well-trained and [are] passionate about the industry."