That’s the backdrop for Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems’ expanding its 2026 Brake School schedule, offering more in-person and advanced technical training sessions across the country.

In total, Bendix will host 23 in-person classes across 11 states, along with two virtual options, running from March through November. The sessions are designed for fleet technicians, owner-operators, and maintenance professionals, but the topics directly affect anyone behind the wheel who depends on reliable braking performance.

Why This Training Matters to Drivers

Modern braking systems tie directly into safety technology that drivers rely on every day. When those systems are not properly serviced or diagnosed, it can lead to performance issues, warning lights, or unexpected behavior on the road.

Bendix says growing system complexity is exactly why it is expanding access to training.

“Technical education is more important than ever. At Bendix, we hear this time and again in conversations with fleets across North America,” said Nicole Oreskovic, Bendix vice president of sales and marketing. “Technicians operate in a fast-changing commercial vehicle environment, where safety components advance rapidly. The pressure is intense for carriers to maintain overall safety, performance, and uptime – while striving to lower their total cost of ownership.”

For drivers, that translates to better-maintained equipment, fewer roadside issues, and shops that understand the technology on newer trucks.

Air Brake Training Remains the Foundation

The backbone of the 2026 schedule is Bendix’s three-day Air Brake Training course, with 16 sessions planned nationwide. The first class runs March 31 through April 2 in Fresno, California.

This course focuses on the fundamentals that every truck depends on, including how dual air brake systems operate, how components interact, and how failures are diagnosed and repaired.

Classroom topics include compressed air fundamentals, air system failure mode diagnosis, and foundation brake components such as compressors, valves, drum brakes, and air disc brakes. The training also introduces Bendix’s Global Scalable Brake Control electronic braking system and Global Scalable Air Treatment technologies.

Bendix recommends participants complete its online air brake training before attending an in-person class.

Advanced Technology Training Expands for 2026

As driver assistance systems become more common, Bendix is also expanding its two-day Advanced Technology Training program, offering seven sessions in 2026.

Three sessions will be held at the company’s headquarters in Avon, Ohio. Two will take place in Reno, Nevada, and two in Fairfield, Connecticut. The first advanced session begins April 14- 15 in Avon.

This course builds on the air brake foundation and focuses on how advanced safety systems operate and are diagnosed. Topics include antilock braking systems, Bendix ESP Electronic Stability Program, Bendix Wingman Advanced collision mitigation, Bendix Fusion driver assistance systems, lane departure warning systems, tire pressure monitoring systems, and electronic braking and air treatment systems.

Hands-on instruction covers air disc brake maintenance and electrical diagnostics tied to these systems.

“The increase in technological advances in braking and stability makes this training a must for the advanced technician,” said Brian Screeton, Bendix manager of technical training and service. “As safety advances continue, technicians are only going to see more of these systems and components.”

Screeton added that at least one major North American OEM requires technicians pursuing master certification for its brake systems to complete both the two-day and three-day Bendix programs.

Virtual Classes and Testing Options

For those unable to attend in person, Bendix will offer two three-day virtual classes in 2026. One session will follow Eastern Time and the other Mountain Time to accommodate attendees across North America.

In-person classes include hands-on training using Bendix air system boards, including a working Bendix Fusion system that demonstrates collision mitigation and full air brake system operation.

At the end of both in-person and virtual courses, participants may take an optional written exam. Those who pass receive a Tested and Passed certificate, while others receive a certificate of completion. Bendix training is not affiliated with U.S. Department of Transportation certification and does not certify technicians for work on its systems.

Cost and Registration

Pricing for 2026 training is $525 per person for the three-day Air Brake Training course, $475 for the two-day Advanced Technology Training class, and $425 for the virtual program. Class sizes are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration is available through bendix.com, B2Bendix.com, or by calling 1-800-AIR-BRAKE.

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

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Scheduled for July 13-19, this week-long observance is packed with educational campaigns, outreach, and enforcement efforts spanning the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It highlights the shared responsibility of drivers, fleet operators, and equipment manufacturers to foster safety and save lives.

Prioritizing the Human Element in Road Safety

Advancements in vehicle technology have transformed the transportation industry. However, as Nicole Oreskovic, vice president of sales and marketing at Bendix, emphasizes, some things remain unchanged.

“Having a well-trained, attentive driver in control of the vehicle is the most important factor in commercial vehicle safety,” Oreskovic states. She adds, “That’s why Bendix develops the technologies and educational tools that help drivers perform at their best – while reinforcing the fact that nothing replaces the responsibility and judgment of the person behind the wheel.”

This perspective reinforces Operation Safe Driver Week’s mission to inspire safe driving habits and raise awareness about behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, and improper seat belt usage.

The Urgency of Safer Roads

The statistics paint a sobering reality. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in around 536,424 police-reported crashes in the U.S. during 2022. These incidents caused approximately 160,608 injuries and claimed 5,936 lives. These numbers drive home the critical importance of cultivating safer habits and leveraging technology to reduce risks.

“Driving a commercial vehicle today means navigating some unpredictable roads, shifting traffic conditions, and constant distractions,” says TJ Thomas, Bendix’s director of marketing and customer solutions.

While advanced safety systems can make a meaningful difference during critical moments, Thomas clarifies they are not a replacement for the human driver. As he explains, “Bendix safety technologies complement safe driving practices. No commercial vehicle safety technology replaces a skilled, alert driver exercising safe driving techniques and proactive, comprehensive driver training. Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times.”

Empowering Drivers Through Knowledge and Tools

Sophisticated safety systems such as Bendix Fusion and Bendix ESP (Electronic Stability Program) integrate advanced sensors and automated responses to reduce accident risks. However, for these tools to be effective, drivers need to fully understand their capabilities and limitations.

“That’s why Bendix places so much emphasis on education and awareness,” the company notes. Through resources like the “Truck Talk with Bendix” podcast and its popular YouTube channel, Bendix ensures drivers have access to in-depth training materials. These channels include the exclusive “Driver Insight Series,” which deepens understanding of technologies, offering tips on how to use them effectively in real-world scenarios.

Thomas encourages drivers to familiarize themselves with their vehicle’s operator’s manual. “Technologies like Fusion are tools to help drivers improve safety,” he states. “Drivers should always review the operator’s manual to understand what features are included, how they work, and their limitations. That understanding is essential to help build driver confidence as they better understand how ADAS complements safe driving practices.”

Additionally, Bendix supports fleet training programs with extensive resources, supplemental materials, and expert guidance. Their goal is to empower drivers with the skills and knowledge required to work in tandem with emerging technologies safely.

Supporting Vehicle Safety With Technician Training

Of course, ensuring vehicle safety isn’t solely about the driver’s behavior—it also involves maintaining commercial vehicles to the highest standards. Bendix offers robust technical support and training to help fleet maintenance teams stay ahead of evolving systems.

“With over two decades of expertise, Bendix Brake School remains one of the industry’s top hands-on training programs,” says Brian Screeton, manager of technical training and service at Bendix. “Whether through in-person classes, virtual modules, or interactive resources, we strive to educate technicians and assist fleets of all sizes.”

Accessible Resources for Maintenance Teams

Bendix’s efforts extend beyond the classroom, offering an expansive online platform for 24/7 learning. The Bendix On-Line Brake School now boasts over 200,000 registered users and includes more than 100 courses covering maintenance and safety system troubleshooting.

Additional resources are readily available through their centralized hub, B2Bendix.com. Here, technicians can access service manuals, installation guides, and custom training designed for fleet-specific needs. For on-demand technical clarification, the Bendix Tech Team hotline – 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725) – ensures professionals always have access to expert advice.

“Our goal has always been clear,” shares Screeton. “Providing safe vehicles starts with knowledgeable people. Whether it’s a two-truck fleet or a national operation, we’re here with technical insight and support that helps keep drivers – and everyone else on the road – safer.”

Working Toward Safer Roads, Together

Through its support of Operation Safe Driver Week and ongoing commitment to educational outreach, Bendix exemplifies the teamwork needed to make roadways safer. By combining advanced technology, comprehensive driver training, and robust vehicle maintenance programs, Bendix contributes to a shared vision of reduced roadway risks.

This week, as enforcement efforts across North America remind us of the stakes, there’s no better time to commit to safer driving habits, develop driver skills, and ensure our vehicles are in optimal condition. Together, we can make every road a safer one.

Image Source: Bendix
Source: The Trucker

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A Legacy in Motion

“I played with trucks,” recalls Daniel Breckenridge, reflecting on his childhood fascination with the big rigs that pass by every day. That childhood passion grew into Breckenridge Trucking Inc., which Daniel now runs alongside his wife, Susan, and their daughter, Courtney.

Founded in 1973 by Daniel’s father, Donald, the Wenona, Illinois-based business has evolved into a specialized HAZMAT carrier. Today, the company operates a fleet of 100 Kenworth tractors and 130 tank trailers, transporting products such as alcohols, petroleum items, and food-grade liquids across the U.S. and Canada.

Safety is the Heart of the Business

Daniel measures success not just by miles traveled, but by the safety of every trip. “The business is a lifelong dream,” says Breckenridge. “We operate by family values. It has to come from the heart and soul—that’s what we do.”

With this in mind, Breckenridge Trucking has integrated Bendix technologies into its operations to protect its drivers and cargo. From advanced braking systems to cutting-edge stability controls, the focus on safety guides every decision.

Air Disc Brakes: A Step Ahead

Since 2010, Breckenridge Trucking has incorporated Bendix ADB22X air disc brakes across its fleet. For hazardous material transport, these brakes are a game-changer. “You don’t have the brake fade you get with drums,” Daniel notes. “You just get in and go, and you can expect the truck to stop.”

The switch to air disc brakes wasn’t without hurdles—early adoption came with resistance from dealers. “We were told disc brakes were too new and untested,” says Breckenridge. Yet, the company stocked parts and persisted, confident in their decision. Today, Bendix ADB22X brakes provide shorter stopping distances, enhanced stability, and reduced maintenance. These benefits become especially critical in mountain descents or heavy traffic, where traditional drum brakes can falter.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Breckenridge Trucking was equally forward-thinking about incorporating Bendix Fusion, an advanced ADAS system, in its fleet starting in 2016. Built upon the foundational Bendix ESP stability system, Fusion combines radar, video, and braking data to assist drivers in preventing crashes.

The system is designed to mitigate rear-end collisions, lane departures, rollovers, and loss-of-control incidents. Highly detailed sensor inputs enable advanced features like active cruise braking, following distance alerts, and stationary object detection.

Breckenridge Trucking complements these cutting-edge features with Bendix’s TABS-6 trailer roll stability system and the BlindSpotter side object detection system, which alerts drivers to nearby vehicles to help avoid sideswipes.

“You drive the equipment and see it perform,” says Daniel, referencing Bendix demos that reenact real-life situations from high-speed braking to stability tests. This hands-on evaluation helped inform his decision to adopt these safety technologies early.

A Safety-Centric Culture

The Breckenridge team shares one mission—consistent excellence in safety. “It starts with everyone, from office personnel to drivers,” Daniel explains. Every employee undergoes the same rigorous training in safe operations and HAZMAT handling, ensuring a shared understanding of protocols.

This focus on safety has garnered the company multiple accolades, including top marks in safety awards from Great West Casualty Company.

Bendix supports this initiative by conducting on-site sessions at the company’s headquarters, educating the team on how to maximize the capabilities of the systems in place. “It’s a group effort at Breckenridge Trucking,” says Al Rollison, interim senior director of fleet and aftermarket sales at Bendix. “They live their safety mission, and we’re honored to partner with them.”

Looking Ahead

For Breckenridge Trucking, choosing Bendix has paid dividends—not just in terms of performance, but in peace of mind. “Bendix is a leader in the industry and has served us well,” says Daniel. “We would like to thank Bendix for their continued partnership.”

Through relentless dedication to safety and technological innovation, Breckenridge Trucking demonstrates how the right partnerships can drive real progress in the transportation industry.

Source: The Trucker

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