I haven't found much information online that talks about the differences other than GUE Tech 1 is similar to UTD tech 2. Right now we're up in the air between taking a GUE Cave 1 class or a Tech class this winter. I'm heavily leaning towards the tech class as that's more useful for local diving in the Great Lakes area. Adventually I'm sure we'll do both.

The main difference I've seen so far is I believe UTD allows you to carry a bottom stage similar to GUE's new Tech 1+ rating which I'm not sure you can get right away? Is there any difference between decompression procedures or beliefs? What am I missing?

The main thing driving me towards UTD is location. From my experience the west coast diving is much more similar to the great lakes compared to florida. Logistically it's a bit harder because I'd most likely drive to florida with my own gear whereas to get to California I'd have to fly and worry about obtaining tanks. Does anyone care to weigh in their opinion?

Edit: I should mention my pre-technical training to date consists of TDI Intro to Tech and GUE Fundamentals.