Southeastern Community College in Columbus County combats truck driver shortage with new program

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Some students in Columbus County are ready to get ‘on the road again.’ WWAY spoke to the people making that possible on Wednesday. 

According to the American Journal of Transportation, there is a serious truck driver shortage in the U.S., and area educators are crafting ways to combat the problem. 

Southeastern Community College launched its Truck Driver Training Program in late 2023. 

The program is open to anyone with or without a high school diploma and can have graduates ready to hit the road in just nine weeks. 

SCC Associate Dean of Technical Training Mike Ammons said there is a great benefit of being behind the wheel. 

“There is a high demand for this particular type of skill set. So, students, once they complete the training, they have the opportunity to be able to work locally. So, if they want to drive trucks locally, they have that option. Or, if they want to do long-distance driving, they can do that as well,” Ammons said. 

Ryan Todd recently completed the class through SCC. He said the job security that this career provides caught his interest among other benefits. 

“It’s a short-term training that leads to a high quality, high paying career. You can come right out making $50,000 a year, within two years you can make around $100,000 a year or more,” Todd said. 

Todd said the course was a resume builder, allowing him to expand his skill set. 

“My employer wanted me to go through the program and get my Class A License to have someone on staff that does have their Class A Commercial Driver’s License,” Todd said. 

Ammons said there are few requirements to get started. 

“There is no experience required. So, the only thing you would need is a valid driver’s license and you don’t have to have a high school diploma or G.E.D.,” Ammons said. 

Southeastern Community College is holding an orientation Wednesday, July 3rd for those interested in the Truck Driver Training Program. It’ll be held in SCC’s Auditorium at 10:00 a.m..