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TRUCK DRIVING
Billy Ingram, Instructor / Coordinator
Course Description The mission of the Truck Driving Program is to prepare students for "entry level" employment as tractor-trailer drivers by providing the identified knowledge and performance skills necessary to pass the Commercial Driver’s test. The program meets or exceeds the qualifications and criteria established by PTDI, the certifying organization made up of more than 200 motor carrier safety personnel, drivers, insurance executives and educators teaching in the field of tractor-trailer operations. The course consists of 216 hours of intensive classroom and behind-the-wheel training that build skills in safety practices, operation and maintenance of vehicles and non-vehicle activities in trucking. Instruction includes operation of vehicles on the interstate, on two-lane highways, in the city, and backing and maneuvering. Also included are recordkeeping and performing pre-trip/post-trip inspections and defensive driving habits. The program emphasizes safe and efficient work practices, and basic occupational and employability skills. Before beginning road training, students must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License permit by passing the written CDL test.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Demand for drivers is higher than ever in the trucking industry and job opportunities are numerous. Since the Memphis Metropolitan Service Area is America’s distribution center, both local and long-distance jobs are available. Working for companies that employ long-distance drivers is the best way to advance to other positions such as dispatcher, manager, or traffic safety worker.
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