Wallace State’s CDL training in Winston County produces first group of completers

HANCEVILLE, ALA. – Wallace State Community College has its first CDL (commercial driver’s license) graduates from the Winston County Works project in Double Springs.
Students Brian Moody, Brandon Lindsey and Ethan Alexander have each earned their licenses through Wallace State’s CDL program in Double Springs, completing the certificate in four weeks.
“I saw an ad for the program in the Winston County paper (the Northwest Alabamian) and I called to check it out. I wanted to move and be closer to home, and I thought this opportunity seemed like a way to make a good living in Double Springs,” said Moody, 40, who moved back to Alabama after spending three years in Louisiana. “It’s been a great program for me, and I’m excited about the future.”
Wallace State offers CDL training at its main campus in Hanceville in addition to opportunities in Blount and Winston Counties. The Winston County Works workforce project opened doors in Double Springs in early August, allowing students the opportunity to earn certifications and training in various classes, including CDL training.
Moody, Lindsey and Alexander completed the majority of their classroom work at the Wallace State site in Double Springs and the truck training primarily in Hanceville, driving within a 50-60 mile radius around campus, completing tasks on main highways, the interstate and other select roads.
Lindsey, 19, has always envisioned himself as a truck driver.
“It’s in my family’s blood. My dad has driven a truck since I can remember, and I already have a job lined up in Trussville,” said Lindsey, 19. “I’m glad I took the advice of one of my high school instructors and registered for the program. It’s a perfect fit for me.”
Alexander, 20, is glad Wallace State has a stronger presence in Winston County.
“Wallace State wants to build the workforce in the county and that’s a good thing. There are a lot of people who want to know how to drive a truck, and this program is a great way to start,” Alexander said. “I think more and more people are finding out about the opportunities available.”
Ben Mantanane, Wallace State’s CDL instructor, is excited to see the CDL program to continue to grow through all three campus sites.
“These three guys have done very well in the program. Their skills are excellent as far as their driving and maneuvering. They’ve all got a bright future,” Mantanane said. “We’ve seen good things from Winston County so far and we’re trying to get more students interested. You can have this program completed within four weeks and go start a career. There are a lot of jobs and opportunities out there for truck drivers. The employers who come talk to us all have different jobs they can offer. Most can meet the needs one may be looking for in this profession.”
Evening and weekend CDL training is available through Wallace State’s program. Financial aid assistance is available. For more information contact 256.352.7826.
For more information about the Winston County Works options, contact Jamie Blackmon at 256.352.8461.
For more information about Wallace State, visit www.wallacestate.edu.