West Covina Student Driven by Purpose, Earning Ford Auto Tech Scholarship
When David Gutierrez first started tinkering with cars, he didn’t have his sights set on building a career. He was just trying to keep his Dodge Charger on the road — searching YouTube tutorials and picking up tips from a friend who worked at a Chevrolet dealership.
This soon changed, however, when his parents needed repairs on their vehicle but couldn’t afford the high cost — a situation that lit a fire in David.
Realizing there are many families like his who struggle to keep their cars running because of the high cost of maintenance and repairs, his dream became clear: become an automotive mechanic who offers affordable, flexible services to the people who need it most.
“I decided I wanted to push myself so I could be that reliable person,” he said. “I want to help my community and help those who can’t afford to fix their cars. I think it’s not fair for them.”
It’s this drive that led David to pursue formal training in the Automotive Technician program at UEI College’s West Covina campus, where he’s currently a student.
It also led to him recently being named a recipient of the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship, a $5,000 award presented by Ford Philanthropy and local dealers to support the next generation of auto technicians.
A Journey Sparked by Family & Community
For David, the road to UEI College was winding.
Before he even considered enrolling, he worked for three and a half years at a thrift store as an assistant manager. Meanwhile, his love of cars grew each time he successfully handled repairs on his own vehicle and those of family members.
A few years ago, he even guided his nephew — then a teenager — through the process of researching trade programs. His nephew ultimately enrolled in UEI College’s HVAC program, and his positive experience opened David’s eyes to the opportunities close to home.
“He told me how he really liked the teachers and how they’re helpful and motivating,” David said. “I thought that would be something I’d be looking forward to as well.”
Since enrolling in May, David has found exactly what he was hoping for: a program that keeps him engaged and challenged.
“Everyone’s really nice,” he said. “Everyone’s really helpful, especially the teachers. They’re really communicative. If I’m missing any assignments, they’re on top of me. I feel like they care about our success.”
One instructor, Ramon Uribe, stands out.
“With him, there’s always something new,” David said of Ramon, who has more than 36 years of professional experience. “Every day, there’s always something we’re going to learn, and he’s really motivating. He really is.”
“David’s passion for helping his community through affordable auto repairs is truly inspiring,” Ramon said. “His dedication in the classroom and hands-on approach show he’s not just learning the trade. He’s driven by a purpose to make a real difference. We’re proud to see him recognized with the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship and excited for the impact he’ll have as a skilled, compassionate technician.”
Whether he’s under the hood of a car or examining components in the classroom, David said he thrives on the hands-on learning environment.
“There’s always something to work on,” he said. “That’s what I love.”
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Earning the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship
David first learned about the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship when a Ford representative visited his class and handed out an informational card. David signed up to receive updates and news, and within days, he got a notification about the program and decided to apply.
The scholarship, part of Ford Philanthropy’s national effort to address the auto technician shortage, provides financial support to students in automotive programs across the U.S. Recipients are chosen based on factors like academic engagement, financial need, and commitment to the field.
David’s application took less than an hour, but he said the impact of winning has impacted him in a big way.
“I didn’t expect it — I really didn’t,” he said. “When I got the notification, I thought, no way. I don’t deserve it. But if God is going to put it in front of me, I’m going to take it.”
Before the scholarship, David was juggling full-time work, school, and side hustles like delivery driving just to keep up with car payments and tuition.
“The scholarship allowed me to pay off my tuition, and now I can focus on school and do what I have to do,” he said. “It’s a huge, huge relief.”
Keeping His Eye on His Goal
Though only a few months into the program, David said his long-term purpose remains front and center throughout school: to become an automotive technician who serves his community with fairness and compassion.
“That’s my main motivation — to provide more affordable services,” he said.
His message for others reflects his own focus and his determination to keep his eye on the ball.
“Find your motivation first,” he said. “Without motivation, you can’t really go anywhere. You have to do it for something — yourself, your community or both. You need that driving force.”
For David, that force is clear. What began as fixing his own car has turned into a mission to uplift families like his own. Thanks to personal determination and the support of UEI College and the Ford Auto Tech Scholarship, he’s well on his way.
