In an innovative effort to open doors for returning citizens and residents, Southeastern Community College (SCC) has teamed up with the Mt. Pleasant Correctional Facility (MPCF) to train inmates for careers in trucking.
The first six participants have completed SCC’s new commercial driver’s license (CDL) training program, which uses an on-site driving simulator to provide hands-on experience before hitting the road.
Funded by a $1.9 million Department of Labor Strengthening Community Colleges Training grant, the simulator and related equipment aim to remove barriers for students from local opportunity zones, providing practical training close to home.
Graduates earned their CDL Theory and Behind-the-Wheel Simulation certificates—the first essential steps toward full licensure. Once released, they will continue their training on the road with practical driving experience.
For the program’s leaders, the graduation represented more than just certificates.
“Listening to their goals, excitement, and determination for the future made it clear that credentials are more than certificates,” said Brenda Rubey, director of CBIZ. “They are catalysts for hope, opportunity, and lasting change.”
The program is part of SCC’s broader efforts to provide career-focused education. The college recently expanded its offerings with an Integrated Education and Training CDL program for adult learners and has partnered with the 8th Judicial District Department of Corrections to combine high school equivalency courses with CDL training.
Additionally, SCC’s CDL program has earned approval as a SkillBridge provider through the Department of Defense. This allows active-duty service members to gain CDL training and prepare for transportation careers while still serving.
This partnership highlights how innovative training programs can help underserved populations gain access to professional trucking careers, providing skills, certifications, and a pathway to long-term employment in the industry.
Source: Truckers News
