Award-Winning BMW STEP Instructor Michael Heyman: Inspiring Technicians & Industry Leader

Instructors at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) are among the finest in the industry, blending diverse experiences to give students a realistic preview of automotive careers.

Michael Heyman, a BMW program instructor at UTI Orlando, exemplifies that impact. He recently earned the BMW Group Trainer Certification and received a Level of Distinction— the highest instructor accolade.

Michael’s students, many of whom now thrive nationwide, speak highly of his mentorship. Read on for his journey, recent honor, and advice for aspiring technicians.

Meet Michael Heyman

Hailing from a small New Jersey town near the Parkway, Michael grew up amid the era of American muscle cars, sparking an early fascination with automobiles.

He pursued automotive technology at trade school, quickly realizing the pride of helping drivers feel secure. After earning ASE Master, L1, and New Jersey emissions certifications, he spent 12 years across repair shops before launching his own 7,200‑sq‑ft facility with six full‑time staff.

While working, he joined the New Jersey Mechanics Education Association, where an inspiring instructor revealed how to simplify complex concepts. This encounter ignited Michael’s teaching passion, leading him to part‑time instructor roles that balanced shop work.

Empowering the Next Generation of Technicians

In 2007, Michael relocated to Florida and joined UTI Orlando, beginning with drivability classes. “I love what I do; teaching just keeps getting better,” he says.

He helped launch UTI’s BMW program, serving as a technical team leader for drivability courses. The STEP initiative, now rebranded as the BMW FastTrack program, equips students with dealership‑ready skills.

Since becoming a BMW instructor in 2017, Michael covers diagnostic equipment, lift procedures, BMW policies, and preventive maintenance. He also contributes to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) by shaping BMW‑specific ASE tests.

This year he will help develop a new advanced driver systems test for ASE.

More Than Just a Paycheck

For Michael, teaching is profoundly rewarding. He recounts former students returning to thank him for their success—one now runs a profitable speed shop in Orlando.

A student’s drawing of Michael with a T‑bucket now hangs in his office, and a parent once sent a thank‑you letter and a student’s emissions device as a training aid.

“Seeing a student return to thank you is priceless—nothing beats that fulfillment,” he says.

A Career Milestone Worth Recognizing

To teach BMW, instructors must be certified. Michael underwent rigorous training, and during a curriculum review, a BMW representative noted his natural ability to simplify complex topics.

He received a Level of Distinction, a rare honor awarded to only a handful worldwide. In 2019, he was one of three global recipients and the sole U.S. awardee that year. His photo now graces the BMW training center in Germany.

Michael’s Advice for Aspiring Technicians

With experience as a technician, shop owner, and instructor, Michael stresses honesty and integrity as the industry’s core values. “Your reputation matters more than money,” he emphasizes.

He reminds students that fixing a car can change lives—helping families reunite, mothers get to school, and communities stay connected. Integrity, he says, paves the way to rewards.

As an instructor, he encourages humility, noting that he learns from his students just as much as they learn from him.

A Growing Demand for Technicians

Michael observes a broad talent gap across all sectors—independent shops to dealerships—underscoring the need for skilled technicians. Modern vehicles now rival the sophistication of the first lunar shuttle.

He highlights that technicians’ skills are portable nationwide, making this a highly mobile and valuable career path.1

For more insight into Michael’s journey, visit our full profile and resources for automotive education.