Qualified truck drivers are in demand, and Kishwaukee College is currently offering classes to prepare students for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam.
Kishwaukee College — Community Education will offer an Illinois Class A CDL Exam prep class from June 7 through July 7. The class takes place from 7 am-4:30 pm on Monday through Thursday at the Kishwaukee College campus. The course will prepare students to pass their CDL permit test and CDL exam, assist with the Department of Transportation Physical and Drug Screening, and provide hands-on practice in truck driving skills and on-the-road driving experience.
By earning a CDL, students can follow a quick pathway into a high-paying career. Truck drivers can earn from $40,000 to $60,000 in their first year, including medical and retirement benefits, according to salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There is also a robust job network both locally and across the nation. The American Trucking Association reports a shortage of about 60,000 drivers, which could swell to nearly 160,000 by 2028 if current trends continue.
Upon completion of the program, Kishwaukee College can help students with job placement. Kish’s Career Services provides a variety of opportunities through connections with recruiters for regional truck driver companies.
Kish’s Truck Driver Training program is a short-term program that trains students for an in-demand career in four weeks. For students looking for assistance paying for the course, funding is available through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Registration is currently open, and space is limited. For more information, or to register, please contact program director Melissa Gallagher at mgallagher1@kish.edu or visit www.kish.edu/cdl.