Students Complete Class A CDL Training, Gain Behind the Wheel Experience in Winter Weather Conditions

Five students successfully completed Jefferson Community College’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A training program on February 20, 2026, gaining hands-on experience behind the wheel, including driving in winter weather conditions. Jefferson’s CDL Class A training, offered in partnership with The CDL Schools, took place at the Lewis County JCC Education Center in Lowville.

Program completers include John Case of Watertown, Tyler Forger of Clayton, Lane Lyndaker of Adams, Nate Roof of Adams Center, and Rivver Tourville of Turin.

“The success of this cohort reflects the dedication of our students and the strength of our regional partnerships,” said Joanna Brislan, Director of Military Enrollment and Workforce Solutions at Jefferson. “Jefferson’s Class A CDL program continues to meet critical workforce needs by preparing students with the skills, confidence, and real-world winter driving experience employers expect. Funding opportunities from The WorkPlace help ensure that cost is never a barrier, allowing more individuals to step into essential roles in our local transportation industry.”

Lyndaker is one of four students in the cohort who received a scholarship from The WorkPlace. “I was really surprised to learn that funding was available,” he said. “It helped cover costs and will allow me to invest in equipment.” After earning his Class A license, Lyndaker plans to drive a lowboy truck for Blueline Heavy Equipment Repair and Diesel Performance, his family-owned business. 

Lyndaker adds, “I was surprised by how in-depth the [CDL] program is. I didn’t know what to expect and was pretty nervous at first, but the instructors made me feel comfortable, which boosted my confidence. They cover everything—from mechanics to driving—and getting winter driving experience was a huge plus. I’d rather be driving truck in the winter, than turning wrenches in the snow.”

The Class A CDL program, offered in collaboration with The CDL Schools, began in January 2026. It prepared individuals to qualify for the Class A CDL Skills Test and meet all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements. The 192-hour curriculum combines classroom instruction with extensive behind-the-wheel training to prepare students for both the theoretical and practical components of commercial driving.

The program is divided into three parts. The first consists of 80 hours of classroom, lab, and Learning Management System (LMS) instruction. Upon completion, participants earn their ELDT Theory certification and are eligible to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The second portion includes 110 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction focused on meeting FMCSA range and public road proficiency requirements for the Class A CDL skills test. The final portion includes two hours dedicated to completing the state skills test.

Training and preparation for the CDL skills test on a manual transmission vehicle are included in the program.

The Class A CDL program supports regional workforce development by preparing students for in-demand careers in transportation and logistics, while providing real-world driving experience in a variety of conditions.

The next JCC CDL Class A training will be held May 18 to June 15, 2026 in Watertown. Registration deadline is May 8. To learn more and inquire about funding, contact JCC Workforce Solutions at (315) 786-2233 or email ced@sunyjefferson.edu.