Thanks to educational partners, Halifax Community College will host a credential celebration at 9 a.m. Friday on campus for its newest course offering.
Ten Roanoke Valley adult students have earned Commercial Driver’s License certification through a joint effort of HCC’s workforce and economic development division and Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s truck driver training program.
Halifax County Schools provided the outdoor classroom and proving grounds on a backlot behind its administrative headquarters building.
“This example clearly illustrates the concept of community education,” said HCC Acting President and VP of Administrative Services/CFO David Forester. “Strong partnerships with CCC&TI and Halifax County Public Schools led to the success in the CDL program with graduates being employed after the nine-week program in high-paying jobs. The CDL program serves as a great reminder of the dramatic benefits of short-term training improving the lives of students.”
The full-time adult student cohort completed an intensive nine-week training program which included classroom work, range driving and road driving.
Hudson-based CCCT&I which facilitated the driving portion and provided the trucks, serves Caldwell and Watauga counties. Its truck driving training curriculum has been in place since 1990.
“Lifelong learning is proven to be a launch pad for long-term success and HCC is a quality choice for career achievement in our area and beyond,” said Dale Fey, HCC’s dean of workforce and economic development.
Fey added, “HCC and all of our educational partners are committed to offering a robust selection of continuing education options. Our diverse course selections are tailored to enhance and update skills, deliver training for a new career path or provide personal enrichment and greater wellness.”
Brandon Cockerham, lead truck driving instructor from CCC&TI, noted the program students, a diverse group of men and women who ranged in ages from 21-50, supported each other throughout their training and skills development.
He said they encouraged each other to succeed in their daily challenges. “These CDL certifications are a springboard to solid employment opportunities,” he said. “I’m confident these accomplished men and women are on the cusp of fulfilling, well-paying careers in the trucking industry.”