Wayne Community College has graduated its next class of truck drivers.
Graduates of the Truck Driver Training program were tested through written and behind-the-wheel exams to ensure they have the skills and knowledge required to safely and successfully operate commercial vehicles. These individuals earned a Class A Commercial Driver’s License, DOT 380 certificate, and WCC Workforce Continuing Education certificate.
This is the College’s second class of graduates from the program’s daytime course and the 13th class for the evening course.
At a special ceremony held to honor the graduates, WCC President Patty Pfeiffer told the new truck drivers that their career path made them the backbone of the economy. “The road ahead may be long and winding, but with your skill, determination, and unwavering spirit, I have no doubt that you will reach great heights in your career and be very successful,” she said.
The 18 graduates, listed by hometown, are:
Beulaville
Eduardo Gonzalez
Dudley
Jessica Martinez
Goldsboro
Donald Alley
Dionte Artis
Anthony Elliot
Evaristo G. Herrera
Ian Harper
Delton Lancaster
Lavoris Vick
Chevis Williams
Kenansville
Mario Bailon
La Grange
Angel Gaona
Charleshia Parks
Andrew Scott
Pikeville
Anthony Cumby
Thomas Herring
Seven Springs
Gregorio Gaona Garza
Anthony Mazariegos
Graduate Anthony Cumby spoke about his time in the program during the ceremony.
“I think we all can say it was an unforgettable experience,” Cumby said. “WCC has helped us reach the next level of success by creating drivers who are not only safe and aware but also competitive and knowledgeable.”
Delton Lancaster, another graduate, said the support from others was crucial to their completion of the program.
“With the direction of our instructors, encouragement of fellow students, and advice from previous students, I was able to pass, as well as the entire class. We encouraged each other in the different skills we had to learn,” Lancaster said.
“We are really excited about what is going to happen for you and through you as you embark upon your new careers,” said WCC Vice President of Workforce Continuing Education Services and Community Engagement Renita Dawson.
The College’s Truck Driver Training program was established in response to requests from local businesses and industries that need qualified drivers. Graduates of the program can expect to earn from $40,000 to $60,000 annually in their first year with an established company. Employment is available locally, regionally, and nationally in various industries, in governmental agencies, and by self-employment.
The program’s next course is scheduled for May 7 through Aug. 8. Classes will be held at the College from 6 p.m. to 10 on Tuesdays through Thursdays and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
A list of enrollment requirements and details about the program can be found at waynecc.edu/truck.
For more information about the Truck Driver Training program, contact WCC Workforce and Community Service Programs Coordinator Lisa Newkirk at (919) 739-6931 or [email protected].
