North Arkansas College, part of the University of Arkansas (UA Northark), is set to revitalize its commercial driver’s license (CDL) training program in Harrison, Arkansas. This initiative follows an 18-month hiatus and is made possible by a substantial donation from FedEx Freight.
FedEx Freight Boosts UA Northark CDL Training Program
The donation includes two tractors and two 48-foot trailers, which provide students with access to essential, industry-standard training equipment. This comes at a crucial time, as the trucking sector continues to face a significant shortage of qualified drivers.
Program Details and Goals
The CDL training program is expected to resume this fall, offering a four-week intensive course. Numerous sessions will be available throughout the year to expedite student employment. The partnership with FedEx Freight aims to bridge the gap between education and industry needs.
Rodney Myers, Vice President of Human Resources for FedEx Freight, emphasized the importance of developing skilled drivers to support the entire industry. He noted, “We are proud to partner with UA Northark to relaunch the CDL program and provide equipment to train safe and professional drivers.”
Investing in Student Success
Chancellor Rick Massengale lauded the contribution as a major investment in both student success and the local workforce. He stated, “We are deeply grateful for this generous donation, which will enhance hands-on learning and align our graduates with employer expectations.”
- The donation features two tractors and two 48-foot trailers.
- The course will align with industry training standards.
- Students will gain experience on vehicles that meet industry specifications.
Economic Impact on the Community
The relaunch of the CDL program is anticipated to have positive economic implications for Harrison. Jeff Neilson, President and CEO of the Harrison Chamber of Commerce, highlighted trucking’s integral role in regional commerce, stating, “Trucking is essential to moving goods and supporting manufacturing.”
Neilson added that this initiative will enhance training capacity and aid in the growth of a skilled workforce, which is vital for local economic development.
Aligning with Industry Standards
Dr. Lewis Villines, Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Technical Education at UA Northark, revealed that the college has actively engaged with various trucking companies to align its curriculum with specific training standards. This engagement is part of the program’s commitment to meeting industry expectations.
As the demand for qualified drivers persists, this partnership marks a significant step in equipping UA Northark students with the tools necessary for successful careers in the trucking industry.
