In partnership with the Center for Transportation Safety (CTS), Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne has relaunched commercial driver’s license (CDL-A) training this fall. The training will consist of comprehensive classroom instruction, extensive one-on-one education, and behind-the-wheel training.

Ivy Tech will offer full-time and part-time CDL programs that will take place at the Public Safety Academy: Ivy Tech South Campus (7602 Patriot Crossing). The full-time course is a three-week intensive program, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Students can also choose a part-time option: six weeks of afternoon or evening classes Monday through Friday. The first group of students began training on Sept. 17, with a second class that began Oct. 8.

“We are excited to provide training for high-demand, high-wage jobs,” says Michelle Hagan-Short, department chair of the Supply Chain Management program. “This is an incredible opportunity for our community. With the CDL program, you can get three weeks of training that directly leads to a livable wage and job security. It’s a job with high-quality of work life and low stress, and demand for CDL drivers continues to grow.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median pay for CDL drivers is $42,480/yr or $20.42/hr. The Bureau projects a 6 percent increase in long-term job outlook—an addition of 108,400 workers from 2016–26.

The Center for Transportation Safety is working with Ivy Tech to coordinate a successful training program. CTS will develop curriculum, provide tractors and trailers for training, and pay for the students’ physical, drug test, and two skills tests.

The training for individuals is $4,950. Although the program is not financial aid eligible at this time, assistance may be available through your local WorkOne Northeast career center. A list of locations can be found at www.neinworks.org. Classes will be offered every three weeks. For class availability and more information on CDL training, contact Tina Zint at tzint@drivingdynamics.com