Quincy Reporter

Recently the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration released a list of certified training providers for entry-level truck drivers. John Wood Community College truck driver training program is approved as one of those providers. The program will be teaching both Class A and Class B theory and behind the wheel training as well as Hazmat curriculum.

Phil Steinkamp, instructor of the program, says that even though there are new requirements for teaching facilities, the JWCC program will remain the same. “Our program has always taught the theory and skills that are now a requirement for any program that trains new drivers.”

Even though these new requirements have little effect on the John Wood program, it will change how some people learn to drive a truck. Steinkamp explains, “Although I was taught by a family member, I realized there was more than just driving. Having a new driver go through a certified course will give them the basic skills needed to be successful.”

JWCC truck driving program has adjusted its curriculum to assist those students that may already have some experience driving larger vehicles but have yet to obtain a CDL. This year the Truck Driver Training program went from an 8-week course to 6-weeks by placing portions of the theory curriculum online. Students also have the opportunity to complete the class even sooner if they can show proficiency behind the wheel.

Chris Koetters, a former JWCC truck driving student and now an instructor at the program, says that at the core, these changes are meant to create safer drivers. “Growing up on a farm I was around trucks all the time, but it wasn’t until I went through the program that I fully grasped all the details of driving a truck safely,” says Koetters. “These new changes may seem unnecessary, but this course will give you knowledge beyond what you would learn on your own.”

Along with the changes for new drivers, current drivers that need to add a Hazmat endorsement will also be required to take a course before testing at the license office. To find out more information about the Class A, Class B, and Hazmat courses at John Wood visit www.jwcc.edu/truck.