NASCAR Technical Institute (NASCAR Tech), a division of Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and the exclusive educational partner of NASCAR, has announced a new partnership with K&N Engineering, a leading manufacturer of washable performance air filters and air intake systems.

"The Official Filter of NASCAR is now the exclusive and official filter of NASCAR Technical Institute," said John Dodson, vice president of NASCAR and community relations for Universal Technical Institute. "When developing partnerships, we look for top products in both the automotive and motorsports industries, and K&N Engineering delivers that product. Their expert knowledge in air filters and air intake systems will be a welcome addition to training tomorrow’s technicians."

In 2012, NASCAR Tech students made history when the engines they built propelled Kyle Larson to the NASCAR K&N Pro-Series East Championship. Top-performing students who earn their way into the elite engine building laboratory assemble and maintain spec-engines for top race teams like Stewart HAAS Racing, Rev Racing, Team Little Racing and Hattori Racing Enterprise.

K&N Engineering took note of the accomplishment and made a decision to help educate and support the next generation of NASCAR engine builders. The company is now the official sponsor of the NASCAR K&N Pro Racing Series. The teams in the division compete with the specially designed NASCAR Spec-Engine. The engine is approved to compete in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series and as an alternative for select NASCAR Camping World Truck Racing events.

"I was impressed to learn that the NASCAR Tech student-built spec-engines boast a 30 percent winning average since the beginning of the 2012 NASCAR K&N Pro-Series season," said Tony Yorkman, sports marketing manager for K&N Engineering. "Following the introduction of the Spec-Engine lab, this partnership made sense. Providing K&N products to the UTI campuses is a win for all involved; especially these incredible students who use and train with our product."