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PTDI Certification |
Catawba Valley Community College 's Truck Driver Training Program recently received certification by the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI). CVCC is one of only three training programs in North Carolina certified by PTDI. PTDI is a national, nonprofit organization based in Alexandria, Va. It was established for the twofold purpose of (1) developing uniform industry skill, curriculum, and certification standards for entry-level truck driver training and motor carrier driver finishing programs, and (2) certifying entry-level truck driver training courses at public and private schools and driver finishing programs at carriers for compliance with PTDI standards. CVCC Truck Driver Training students receive instruction through a standardized program developed by professionals in the field. Students received both skills and safety training verifying their ability to operate a tractor-trailer as well as maintain and inspect their vehicle, plan trips, deal with environmental factors, handle special cargo and many other special circumstances. "There are lots of programs in the state of North Carolina offering truck driver training, but not many are certified by PTDI," explained Van Staley, CVCC Truck Driver Training Program director. "We pursued PTDI certification for its credibility in the industry," added Staley. "It says this isn't a licensing mill." Institutions that seek PTDI certification often do so for the high level of employability and training their students receive as a result. "The recruiting benefits are exceptionally good for us," Staley added. "Some trucking companies require their employees to be trained by PTDI-certified programs, so this gives our students more employment opportunities." "Trucking is a huge industry, especially in our area," Staley added. "There is a constant demand for drivers, so the more training-and especially standardized training-we can give our students, the better drivers they will be and the safer our roads will be." CVCC has offered a truck driver training program since 1987 and has graduated more than 600 drivers. Instructional formats to suit a variety of personal schedules are offered, including daytime weekday, evening and weekend classes, and all are PTDI certified. Interested individuals must be at least 18 years old, able to read, write and speak English at a level that permits them to benefit from the course, have a valid driver's license and Social Security number. Students must have a good driving record within the past four years and pass a drug-screening test. For additional information or to request an application packet, call 828-624-5212 / 1-888-311-3748 or **Registration Date: Please call for an appointment** |
