Universal Technical Institute Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Universal Technical Institute has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, human resources, and campus administration.

Focused on delivering specialized technical training, Universal Technical Institute empowers students through industry-aligned education programs that bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional career success in the automotive and marine sectors.

Leadership Roles at Universal Technical Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jerome Grant
  • Chief Financial Officer - Bruce Schuman
  • Chief Operating Officer - Todd Hitchcock
  • President, Salt Lake City Campus - John Balderree
  • HR Coordinator & To Campus Executive Administrator & President - Brenda Ellington
  • Campus President - Tess Dubois-Carey
  • President, Campus , TX (Austin) - Julie Mueller
  • Campus President - Darrin Brust
  • Campus President - Migdalia Vazquez
  • Senior Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer - Chyrell Miel
  • Jerome Grant - Chief Executive Officer

    Jerome Grant, the Chief Executive Officer at Universal Technical Institute, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Grant oversees the expansion of post-secondary education programs, ensuring alignment with evolving industry demands for skilled automotive and diesel technicians. By fostering partnerships with major manufacturers, the Chief Executive Officer secures critical training resources that enhance student employability across North American markets. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of academic outcomes and operational efficiency to maintain high standards of technical instruction. Jerome Grant drives the long-term growth trajectory by prioritizing innovation in curriculum development and student support services. Through rigorous oversight of institutional performance, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the company remains a leader in vocational training. Grant maintains a focus on scaling educational impact while upholding the core mission of preparing students for specialized technical careers in a competitive global economy.
    Jerome Grant

    Bruce Schuman - Chief Financial Officer

    Bruce Schuman, the Chief Financial Officer at Universal Technical Institute, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies of the organization. Schuman oversees financial planning, reporting, and investment activities that support the expansion of technical training programs. By analyzing market trends in post-secondary education, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that capital resources align with long-term growth objectives. This leadership role involves maintaining transparency with stakeholders while optimizing the cost structure of campus operations. Bruce Schuman drives financial stability by implementing rigorous budgeting processes and risk management protocols. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with executive leadership to evaluate the viability of new diploma and degree offerings. Through precise financial oversight, Schuman secures the necessary funding to upgrade training equipment and facilities. This commitment to fiscal discipline allows the company to sustain its market position as a premier provider of vocational education for automotive and diesel technicians.
    Bruce Schuman

    Todd Hitchcock - Chief Operating Officer

    Todd Hitchcock, the Chief Operating Officer at Universal Technical Institute, manages the daily execution of academic and administrative operations. Hitchcock optimizes campus workflows to ensure consistent delivery of diploma and degree programs across the national network. Overseeing the integration of manufacturer-specific training, the Chief Operating Officer aligns internal processes with the practical needs of the automotive and marine industries. This role requires constant coordination with regional leadership to maintain operational excellence and regulatory compliance. Todd Hitchcock drives efficiency by implementing scalable systems that support student enrollment and graduation success. By monitoring key performance indicators, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and resource allocation. Hitchcock ensures that all technical training facilities operate at peak capacity, providing students with the necessary tools for career advancement. Through this operational focus, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader organizational goal of delivering high-quality vocational education.
    Todd Hitchcock

    John Balderree - President, Salt Lake City Campus

    John Balderree, the President, Salt Lake City Campus at Universal Technical Institute, directs all academic and operational activities at the regional facility. Balderree oversees the delivery of specialized training programs for automotive and diesel students, ensuring that curriculum standards meet industry requirements. By fostering local partnerships with employers, the President, Salt Lake City Campus enhances internship and job placement opportunities for graduates. This leadership role involves managing campus staff, maintaining facility standards, and driving student enrollment growth. John Balderree executes strategic initiatives that improve student retention and academic performance. The President, Salt Lake City Campus monitors local market needs to adapt training programs effectively. Through active engagement with the community and industry partners, Balderree ensures that the campus remains a vital contributor to the regional workforce. This focus on local operational success supports the broader mission of providing high-quality technical education to students seeking careers in specialized trades.
    John Balderree

    Brenda Ellington - HR Coordinator & To Campus Executive Administrator & President

    Brenda Ellington, the HR Coordinator & To Campus Executive Administrator & President at Universal Technical Institute, manages human resources processes and administrative support for campus leadership. Ellington coordinates recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations to ensure a high-performing staff environment. By facilitating communication between the campus president and administrative teams, the HR Coordinator & To Campus Executive Administrator & President ensures that operational goals remain clear and actionable. This role involves maintaining compliance with company policies and supporting the professional development of faculty members. Brenda Ellington drives organizational efficiency by streamlining administrative tasks and improving internal reporting structures. The HR Coordinator & To Campus Executive Administrator & President monitors staff performance metrics to support the delivery of quality technical education. Through this dual focus on human resources and administrative management, Ellington ensures that the campus operates smoothly and effectively. This leadership contribution directly impacts the ability of the institution to provide superior training for future technicians.
    Brenda Ellington

    Tess Dubois-Carey - Campus President

    Tess Dubois-Carey, the Campus President at Universal Technical Institute, leads the strategic direction and daily operations of the assigned educational facility. Dubois-Carey oversees the implementation of technical training curricula, ensuring that students receive instruction relevant to current industry standards in collision repair and automotive technology. By managing campus resources and faculty performance, the Campus President drives high levels of student satisfaction and academic achievement. This leadership role involves building relationships with regional employers to facilitate career pathways for graduates. Tess Dubois-Carey executes operational plans that optimize facility usage and maintain safety standards. The Campus President monitors enrollment trends and adjusts outreach strategies to meet growth targets. Through consistent focus on educational quality and student outcomes, Dubois-Carey ensures that the campus remains a competitive force in the vocational training market. This commitment to excellence supports the overall mission of preparing students for successful careers in the technical trades.

    Julie Mueller - President, Campus , TX (Austin)

    Julie Mueller, the President, Campus , TX (Austin) at Universal Technical Institute, directs all aspects of the Austin campus operations. Mueller oversees the delivery of specialized diploma and degree programs, ensuring that training equipment and instructional methods align with the needs of the automotive and diesel industries. By managing campus staff and student services, the President, Campus , TX (Austin) drives high graduation and placement rates. This leadership role involves engaging with local industry partners to create networking opportunities for students. Julie Mueller executes strategic initiatives that enhance the campus reputation and attract prospective technicians. The President, Campus , TX (Austin) monitors operational budgets and facility maintenance to ensure a high-quality learning environment. Through proactive management and community involvement, Mueller ensures that the Austin location contributes significantly to the company's national mission of providing top-tier vocational education. This focus on regional success supports the broader goal of preparing students for long-term career stability.
    Julie Mueller

    Darrin Brust - Campus President

    Darrin Brust, the Campus President at Universal Technical Institute, manages the comprehensive operations of the assigned technical training facility. Brust oversees the execution of specialized programs, ensuring that students gain the practical skills required for careers in motorcycle and marine technology. By coordinating with faculty and administrative teams, the Campus President drives academic excellence and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of student success through targeted support services and career development initiatives. Darrin Brust executes strategic plans that align campus activities with the company's broader educational objectives. The Campus President monitors industry developments to ensure that training remains relevant and competitive. Through active engagement with local stakeholders, Brust builds partnerships that enhance the value of the educational experience. This focus on operational and academic quality ensures that the campus consistently meets the needs of students and employers alike, supporting the company's mission of vocational excellence.

    Migdalia Vazquez - Campus President

    Migdalia Vazquez, the Campus President at Universal Technical Institute, directs the administrative and academic functions of the assigned campus. Vazquez oversees the delivery of technical training programs, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction in automotive and collision repair. By managing campus resources and faculty development, the Campus President drives student retention and career readiness. This leadership role involves collaborating with regional employers to align training outcomes with industry requirements. Migdalia Vazquez executes operational strategies that optimize facility performance and student support services. The Campus President monitors key performance indicators to ensure that the campus meets enrollment and graduation goals. Through consistent focus on educational standards and community engagement, Vazquez ensures that the campus remains a leader in vocational training. This commitment to excellence supports the company's mission of preparing students for successful careers in the technical trades, providing a foundation for long-term professional growth.

    Chyrell Miel - Senior Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer

    Chyrell Miel, the Senior Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer at Universal Technical Institute, coordinates administrative functions within the human resources department. Miel facilitates communication between executive leadership and staff to ensure organizational alignment with talent management goals. Supporting the Chief Human Resources Officer, Miel manages complex scheduling, documentation, and project tracking related to workforce development. This role involves organizing internal initiatives that promote employee engagement and professional growth across all campuses. Chyrell Miel drives operational efficiency by streamlining administrative workflows and maintaining accurate records for human capital planning. By managing sensitive information and coordinating cross-departmental meetings, the Senior Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer enables the leadership team to focus on strategic personnel decisions. Miel ensures that all HR-related communications reflect the company's commitment to excellence in vocational training. Through this support, the Senior Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer contributes to a productive and cohesive work environment.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Universal Technical Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Universal Technical Institute?
    Universal Technical Institute is led by Jerome Grant (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bruce Schuman (Chief Financial Officer) and Todd Hitchcock (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Universal Technical Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Universal Technical Institute includes leaders such as Jerome Grant (Chief Executive Officer), Bruce Schuman (Chief Financial Officer), Todd Hitchcock (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Universal Technical Institute have?
    Universal Technical Institute has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Universal Technical Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Universal Technical Institute includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Salt Lake City Campus, HR Coordinator & To Campus Executive Administrator & President.