Tractor Trailer Licensing Program
This is the first year HVCC is offering this type of course. The college once offered CDL training in the past, but it was not economically feasible. Also, the tractor trailer used was too big and the program did not succeed.
The Workforce Development Institute and All Star Driving School partnered together to offer this training course to HVCC students. It is a 48 hour non-credit training program. The program is taught by All Star instructors.
In the program, 12 of the hours are in the classroom where students will learn about subjects such as general knowledge of driving a tractor trailer.
The other 36 hours are spent in the truck on the road. The students will receive hands-on tips on how to drive and maintain the truck.
The tuition for this course is $2,695. Additional fees are required by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Non-credit courses are not eligible for financial aid, but students can contact their local Department of Labor to discuss funding.
After completing the classroom hours, students then have to take their permit test at the local DMV. When they have passed their permit test, they are ready to begin on the road training.
During on the road training, there will be one or two students per instructor. If they pass the course, they will be given a Class A license.
Donna Chamberlain, owner of All Star Tractor Trailer School, said, “We help the students look for jobs. Also, we write letters of recommendation.”
All Star Driving School is also contacted by truck companies looking for students who have obtained their Class A License.
All Star approached HVCC wanting to do this kind of training. “We want to reach out to a new area of people and business,” said Chamberlain.
This training program is not only for people who are just starting their college education.
G. Jack Urso, Technical Assistant of the Workforce Development Institute, said, “A lot of people who are seeking a second skill are interested in this program. It will leave them something to fall back on if unemployment arises.”
People who have degrees already can join this program. Gloria Delap, owner of All Star Driving School, said, “There have been college students with Masters Degrees who get Class A Licenses.”
To join this program, students must have a minimum of tenth grade math and reading skill levels. They must also be 21 or older and have a valid driver’s license.
Before being accepted into the program, an interview and a drug test will be conducted.
This course is continuously offered throughout the year and typically lasts for three weeks to a month.
All Star trainers are brought in to accommodate the number of students registered for the course.
Scott Dobson, owner of All Star Tractor Trailer School, said, “We look forward to enrolling new students. We prepare our students and care about them. That’s how it has been and will continue to be.”
For more information, visit www.hvcc.edu/wdi.