To confront this workforce shortage, Mid-Plains Community College has rolled out a groundbreaking entry-level driver training initiative. A highlight of this program is a mobile CDL simulator, offering students a realistic, hands-on experience of piloting a semi-truck. Launched in February 2022 in response to updated federal training standards, the program spans roughly five weeks and has already celebrated around 200 graduates.

“Nationwide, there’s a huge shortage of truck drivers. Nebraska is no exception,” explained Jeff Smeltzer, Coordinator for Business and Community Education at Mid-Plains Community College.

Introducing the Next Generation to Trucking

To generate excitement around trucking careers, the college is proactively bringing its simulator to high schools across the region. This approach provides students a chance to explore what semi-truck driving entails in a virtual setting, allowing them to test the waters before committing to the formal training program.

“It’s a great career, and a lucrative career as well,” emphasized Smeltzer.

One of the recent high school participants, Valentine High School senior Miguel Roberto, had his first opportunity to experience driving a semi through the simulator.

“This is my first time driving a semi,” shared Roberto.

Safe Learning Through Realistic Scenarios

The state-of-the-art CDL simulator introduces more than just basic vehicle operation. It recreates hazardous situations in a safe and controlled environment, equipping future drivers with the skills needed to handle the unexpected.

“We can put drivers in an unsafe situation in a safe manner,” added Smeltzer. “We can put a driver on black ice, have deer run in front of a driver, or cause a tire to blow.”

Addressing Nebraska’s Growing Demand

By providing Nebraska’s youth with an engaging introduction to the trucking profession, Mid-Plains Community College aims to inspire the next wave of professional drivers. Through this innovative outreach strategy, the program hopes to address the surging demand for qualified truck drivers and drive long-term change within the industry.

Source: News Channel Nebraska Southeast

The post Innovative CDL Simulator Tackles Nebraska’s Truck Driver Shortage appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Quincy Jackson, a seasoned CDL instructor, was recently named the recipient of the 2025 Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction at OTC. The award was presented during the Spring Faculty and Staff Meeting and Awards Ceremony held last month.

“I’m deeply honored by this recognition,” said Jackson. “As a second-generation employee at OTC, I’ve seen how education can break down barriers and create opportunities. My father worked here as a custodian. Though he didn’t have the chance to pursue higher education, he instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance.”

Jackson emphasizes teaching his students the fundamental skills they need to succeed as professional truck drivers. “In a day and age where many people can’t read a map or change a tire, I am still teaching my students to go back to the basics to ensure they’re prepared for whatever obstacles they may face on the road,” he explained.

A full-time member of the OTC faculty since 2021, Jackson began his teaching career as an adjunct instructor, dedicating three years to part-time teaching before transitioning into his current role. His professional experience includes over a decade of over-the-road truck driving and handling a variety of cargo, including heavy equipment, agricultural products, flatbed, and low-boy trailers. Before becoming a truck driver in 2006, Jackson served as an engineer in the Army National Guard, where he also worked as a trainer and manager.

OTC President Lori Durden praised Jackson’s impact as both an educator and a community leader, stating, “Quincy has such an inspiring story and history here at Ogeechee Tech. Not only is he an incredible instructor, but he exemplifies for his students what investing in your community looks like, through mentorship, community service, and leading local initiatives.”

The Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction is a statewide competition overseen by the Technical College System of Georgia. Established in 1991, the award acknowledges instructors who exhibit exceptional service, innovation, and leadership in technical education.

Thanks to OTC’s nomination, Jackson will represent the college at the upcoming regional competition in Tifton on February 25. Should he advance, he will compete as one of three finalists in the state competition, scheduled for April 28 through May 1 in Atlanta.

With a commitment to empowering his students and improving their skillset, Jackson continues to make a meaningful impact both in the classroom and in the wider community.

Source: Truckers News

Image:Ogeechee Technical College

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“This scholarship is a dream come true for me,” Little said. “I’ve always wanted to become a truck driver and now I have the support to make it happen. I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to get started.”

The Future of Trucking Scholarship, launched earlier this year, aims to financially support aspiring truck drivers from the St. Louis area. This scholarship is awarded every quarter to a deserving individual.

Brock Bauza, director of enrollment at Driver Resource Center, shared his excitement about Jason’s new chapter.

“We are thrilled to have Jason as the first recipient of the Future of Trucking Scholarship,” Bauza said. “His enthusiasm for the industry is exactly what we’re looking to support with this scholarship.”

Applications for the next scholarship round are now open, with a deadline set for November 30, 2024. Visit their website to find out more or to submit your application!

Source: The Trucker

Image: Future of Trucking

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