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 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.