Driving Success

How Delaware Tech’s CDL Program prepares students for thriving careers in the trucking industry

BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL

AT DELAWARE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE, the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program isn’t your average training program. It’s a direct path to a stable, well-paying career and a key solution to the nationwide shortage of truck drivers. By offering a hands-on, comprehensive curriculum, Delaware Tech ensures that students gain the skills needed to succeed in one of the most in-demand industries in the country.

Delaware Tech’s CDL program isn’t just about getting students behind the wheel; it’s about providing them with a thorough understanding of the trucking industry, from truck operation and cargo handling to inspections and trip planning. The 240-hour curriculum combines classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience, so students are well-prepared to take on real-world challenges.

Training takes place on a private range and local streets, but what sets this program apart is its use of the Virage CDL simulator. “This advanced tool helps students master complex scenarios—like driving in inclement weather or heavy traffic—before they even hit the road,” explains Chris Moody, associate vice president of workforce development at Delaware Tech. The program is also offered in flexible formats, including weekday and evening/weekend options, designed to fit a variety of lifestyles and commitments.

Upon completion, graduates earn their CDL Class A license and are ready to enter the workforce. Moody adds, “With a shortage of 80,000 drivers right now and nearly a million more needed over the next decade, our CDL program plays a crucial role in getting qualified drivers immediately into the workforce to fill these critical vacancies.”

Partnerships with leading employers like Dot Foods, Mountaire Farms, and Werner play a key role in the program. Guest lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and internship opportunities are all examples of this industry collaboration, which helps students connect theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Similarly, many graduates of the program go on to work with its partners, creating a sustainable pathway to employment. These partnerships also ensure that the curriculum meets the specific needs of employers. “For example, when new regulations or safety protocols are introduced in the trucking industry, we collaborate with our partners to incorporate the changes into our training materials. This helps keep our graduates prepared for the latest industry standards and increases their employability,” Moody explains.

Delaware Tech’s CDL program delivers real results. An impressive 96% of students who enroll complete the program, and last year, every graduate earned a Class A commercial driver’s license.

But it’s not just about the numbers. The real success is in the stories of the graduates whose lives have been transformed. Many students report a dramatic increase in income after completing the program, with some seeing their salaries more than double. One graduate, for example, went from earning $30,000 to $85,000 per year, providing a brighter future for his family.

Delaware Tech’s CDL program is a vital resource for filling a critical gap in the workforce and ensuring that the trucking industry can continue to grow and thrive. By offering high-quality training, fostering strong industry partnerships and focusing on career success, Delaware Tech is not only helping students build stable careers but also supporting the region’s economy and businesses that depend on reliable transportation.