The Commercial Truck Driver training program prepares individuals to be employed as local and interstate drivers in the trucking industry. A combination of classroom and practical instruction gives the student the skills needed to succeed as a driver and preparation for state testing to become a class "A" certified driver.

The program operates in conjunction with Smith Transport Company, Roaring Spring. Six 6-week sessions are taught yearly at Smith Transport and operate from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

ADMISSION:

Students applying for Commercial Truck Driver training should have good mechanical aptitude. This program is taught strictly to adult students. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. All applicants must possess a clean motor vehicle record (No DUI's) and be able to pass a physical examination and substance abuse screening. Applicants under the age of 21 are not permitted to drive outside the State of Pennsylvania. To obtain an application, contact the Adult Counselor, Continuing Education Department, at (814) 941-TECH, or (814)-946-8469; e-mail to ContED@gactc.com.

COURSE OFFERINGS:

Instruction includes cargo handling, truck maintenance, ICC regulations, log books, safety regulations, on-the-road training, and extensive yard training. 60 hours of classroom theory and 180 hours of on-the-road driving instruction is provided. Courses include: Trucking Industry, Equipment Maintenance, Logging, Powertrain, Pre-Trip Inspection, Defensive Driving, Cargo/Documents, and Trip Planning.

TUITION:

Tuition for full-time programs is set each year by the school's Joint Operating Committee. Current tuition rates may be obtained by calling the Continuing Education Office at (814) 941-TECH or (814) 946-8469.  Tuition cost is $4,795 for a 240-hour program. Call the Continuing Education Office for a current schedule. All tuition must be paid in accordance with the school's payment policy. There is no refund of tuition or book fees after the first day of class.

FINANCIAL AID:

Financial Aid in the form of state loans (PHEAA) or federal grants are not available to CTD students. Currently, these grants are only approved for long term, full-time adult training programs. Other sources of financial aid are available to CTD adults. They include Vocational Rehabilitation, JTPA, Single Parent Homemaker, Welfare to Work, WIA, and SPOC (Office of Public Assistance).

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:

Upon passing the written and driving examination for Commercial Truck Driver, graduates can enter the trucking industry in various settings. Truck drivers haul goods over long or short distances, from terminals and warehouses to factories, stores, and homes. Long distance travel may extend over several days.

HIGHER EDUCATION:

Students may wish to pursue further training in related fields such as Diesel Mechanics or Heavy Duty Vehicle Operation/Maintenance. This training can be found at vocational schools, private trade schools, or possibly community colleges.