In July 2024, Perry Thompson, CEO and President of Hat Creek Construction & Materials, Inc. (HCC), and Carie Camacho, Interim Superintendent and President of the Lassen Community College, joined JDX KSUE for an interview on a new truck driving certification program that represents a win-win for the North State.
Launching in October 2024, this exciting new program will provide residents with a much-needed opportunity to enter a high-demand, well-paying field without moving away from the region or incurring student debt.
With the closure of one local prison and limited job opportunities, many residents have been forced to leave the area in search of work. This trucking program offers a chance to build rewarding careers (with family-sustaining salaries and benefits!) while remaining in their home communities, helping to stabilize the local population and the economy.
The first of the three-course certificate programs begins with a four-week Commercial Driver's License Permit Preparation class, which is accessible and affordable. All three courses are non-credit classes; there is no tuition, and students are only responsible for drug testing, physical examinations, and DMV fees. Graduates can also expect to enter an industry with solid job prospects and competitive salaries.
Local companies like HCC recruit drivers that reflect their core values of teamwork, respect, pride, reputation, and community. They typically offer entry-level annual salaries ranging from $65,000 to $85,000, with the potential to earn over $100,000 for experienced drivers in specialized roles. HCC also provides comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance and 401(k) plans with company matches.
The trucking industry offers diverse career paths that empower drivers to pursue roles that best suit their lifestyle preferences and skills. From local deliveries and long hauls to specialized equipment operators, truck driving is ideal for those who enjoy independence, have a strong work ethic, and possess a sense of responsibility.
As regional businesses struggle to find qualified drivers, this program will also help ensure a steady supply of skilled workers, supporting local industries and potentially attracting new businesses. It's a prime example of how targeted vocational education can address specific community needs and drive economic growth.
To learn more about this exciting opportunity and how to enroll, visit lassencollege.edu.
and bring energy, experience and expertise to complete the simplest jobs efficiently, and overcome the largest obstacles with enthusiasm.
