In today’s fast-paced transportation industry, having a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can open doors to new career opportunities. For those interested in pursuing a career in trucking, Mountain Gateway Community College’s CDL program offers a unique and personalized approach to training.
Dorothy Hayslett, CDL program head and instructor at Mountain Gateway, highlights the opportunities available and how students can take advantage of their program.
“Mountain Gateway Community College offers full service training. Individuals just need to have an interest in getting into the field and we take it from there,” said Hayslett. “If somebody has a goal in mind, fantastic, but if a student has no idea what they want, we can also expose them to a lot of different elements of what to expect. We basically walk them through to see whether or not they actually want to do this. Most of the time they do.”
A Focus on Student Needs
What sets Mountain Gateway’s CDL program apart is its commitment to meeting the unique needs of each student. Unlike group training programs, Mountain Gateway’s one-on-one approach allows instructors to tailor their teaching to each student’s learning style and pace.
“We don’t do group training,” said Hayslett. “We focus on one-on-one instruction because each person is going to drive and shift differently than the next. We choose to focus on the students as individuals and I think that’s what has made our particular program a success.
Job Security and Opportunities
The transportation industry is an important part of the economy and having a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can provide a sense of stability and security in an ever-changing job market. With a CDL, individuals can pursue a wide range of career opportunities, from local trucking jobs to long-haul routes across the country.
“A CDL gives you job security, you can always use it later if you run into situations where you need something quickly,” said Hayslett. “There’s always opportunities for driving and I tell people to take advantage and have it as a backup plan if you’re not pursuing it full time.”
Pursuing a career in commercial driving and obtaining a CDL puts you on a path to job security, stability and opportunities for advancement. Through FastForward individuals can access affordable, fast and comprehensive CDL training, setting themselves up for long-term success. With a CDL in hand, the possibilities are endless – and the future looks bright. Find your answer at a Virginia Community College.