VERNON, Texas (KAUZ) – In honor of Women’s History Month, Vernon College is highlighting women who are taking part in the CDL program.
For the first time, nearly half of the students are women, pursuing their truck driver’s licenses.
The students share they want to encourage other women who may want to do the same.
It’s a male-dominated industry, but that’s all changing.
Right now, women make up 10 percent of truck drivers across the nation; and that number is continuing to grow.
Students share they want to take the phrase ‘Girl Power’ to another level.
“Don’t be scared to try something new, because you’re a woman and can do it.” Student Rana Moore said.
“I decided to pursue my CDL because I feel like there aren’t enough women in the game. I feel like we can do anything if we put our mind to it.” Student Lamesha Griffin shared.
With the trucking industry short 80,000 drivers, obtaining their CDL is an advantage.
“I thought that it would open up a lot of opportunities for me. There’s many jobs that are available to people with a CDL. Class A or class B. The program I chose was Class A, again for more opportunities.” Student Kristine Collins-Whittaker explained.
Memorizing the steps to take in the pre-trip and studying the law to drive a semi has been a challenge.
“Learning how to make sure the truck is safe when you’re getting ready to drive on the road is not the easiest period,” Griffin said.
But supporting and uplifting one another through the process makes learning a bit easier.
“We all help each other, we all give input on things if we see someone struggling in certain areas. And maybe somebody is better in that area, we kind of help them out.” Student Heather Romero said.
The future truck drivers hope to see more women on the roads.
“You can do anything you put your mind to, if you have your mind set on that don’t let anyone discourage you from doing that go out and do it,” Griffin said.
These students will be ready to hit the road on April 18. The next class to enroll in is set to begin April 22.
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