Students Pass Class B CDL Skills Test on First Attempt

In collaboration with The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence, Jefferson Community College (JCC) developed custom, Zero to Theory Training, to provide industry-specific instruction for individuals interested in becoming public transit bus drivers and filling a staffing shortage of drivers in the North Country. Training is complete and all participants who completed the full training passed their Class B CDL skills exam on their first attempt! 

The following individuals, and one student who wishes to remain anonymous, successfully completed the program.  

• Elliot J. Brousseau-Griffin of Norwood
• Derek A. Derushia of Massena
• Bryan G. Dubois of Massena
• Abbey N. Hosken of West Stockholm
• Robin G. Oshea of Canton,
• James C. Parlow of Potsdam
• Allen R. Stewart of Canton

 “We are happy to play a role in helping these individuals prepare to embark on a new career path,” says Dr. Megan A. Stadler, JCC Associate Vice President of Strategic Initiatives. “The College is listening to employers from all sectors of the workforce and will continue to develop partnerships and programs to serve the North Country with customized workforce training tailored to the direct needs of employers.”

“The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence has truly benefitted through this partnership with Jefferson Community College because we have been able to staff our St. Lawrence County Public Transit lines again,” stated Howard W. Ganter, Chief Executive Officer of The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence. “We have eight, well-trained drivers thanks to the Behind the Wheel training offered by JCC.”

St. Lawrence County Mobility Manager Sonja Jensen says, “This is a very impressive accomplishment and reflects the skill, knowledge, and dedication that is characteristic of the St. Lawrence County Public Transit staff. It’s clear that these new drivers received high-quality training from both JCC and The Arc Jefferson-St. Lawrence.”  

With a Class B CDL, a driver may operate a commercial truck or large bus that weighs more than 26,000 pounds. Jefferson’s Zero to Theory Training included Class B and passenger endorsement Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) and the Class B Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) with air brake and passenger endorsements. After completing 65 hours of training with Jefferson, participants completed Behind-the-Wheel ELDT with trainers at The Arc Jefferson - St. Lawrence. Participants had 90 days to prepare for their road test and get their Class B CDL. 

To learn more about Jefferson Community College educational and custom workforce training for employers, call 315-786-2233..