News

Harlan High School Students Gain CDL Training Simulator

Harlan Community High School students can now train as future truck drivers with a new CDL simulator at Iowa Western Community College. This initiative addresses the driver shortage and offers valuable hands-on experience—crucial for local employers in southwest Iowa.

Zach Hammer

Oct 11, 2024 — 1 min read

Harlan Community High School (HCHS) students now have access to a new CDL (Commercial Driver's License) simulator at Iowa Western Community College (IWCC), enhancing training opportunities for aspiring truck drivers. Thanks to an Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRC) Grant, this simulator was installed to address the shortage of qualified drivers in southwest Iowa.

The simulator allows students to practice crucial skills like backing up a 53-foot trailer without the wear and tear on actual vehicles. Lori Stitz, Director of IWCC Shelby County & Buss Regional Centers, emphasized the importance of this initiative for both students and local employers, offering financial assistance to make training more affordable.

Beginning October 21, IWCC's CDL program will offer hands-on training in semi-trucks. There are plans to extend this program to high school students, with the goal of allowing those as young as 17 to engage in the CDL theory course.

With continued support, including a bond referendum on November 5th, IWCC aims to expand its transportation programs to better meet community and industry needs. For more information, visit the original article on HarlanOnline: Read more here.

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