I. Introduction
The transportation and logistics industry is a critical pillar of the global economy, driving the movement of goods and services across America. However, the industry faces a persistent challenge: a shortage of qualified commercial drivers. The average age of a professional truck driver has been steadily increasing and a significant number will be retiring shortly–exacerbating industry capacity issues. In addition, more stringent federal regulations implemented in February of 2022 also contribute to industry constraints requiring the need for many companies to train more safe and competent drivers.
Addressing this issue requires innovative training programs that not only equip individuals with the necessary skills but also ensure they meet stringent certification standards. Partnering up and creating a success story in this type of partnership recently occurred between Diversified Logistics Training Solutions (DLTS) and a leading privately-owned truck dealership that provides a variety of trucking-related services. This partnership synergized both company’s strengths to create a robust CDL training and testing partnership. From the initial conceptualization of goals and objectives to the meticulous development of training schedules and individualized trainee experiences, every facet of this collaboration underscores a dedication to quality and success in CDL training and testing and exemplifies the importance of similar partnerships in the future.
II. Overview of Partnership
Diversified Logistics Training Solutions (DLTS) is a renowned entity in the field of CDL training and certification. Established over a decade ago, DLTS has consistently set industry standards by offering comprehensive and innovative training programs with a more personalized approach that ultimately elevates both the proficiency of drivers across the nation and a company’s ability to achieve success. DLTS’ comprehensive CDL training and testing program trains on-site on the company's exact equipment, customizes curriculum to the company and trainee’s needs, and delivers exceptional drivers at a reduced cost and limited interruption of operations.
The trucking company needing assistance in the CDL training area had a long record of a strong dedication to excellence that extended beyond their operational achievements. The corporation places a high value on workforce development and recognizes that well-trained drivers are crucial to maintaining their high standards of service. This forward-thinking approach led them to seek a partnership with a premier training provider that could maintain their busy schedule of maintaining and diagnosing trucks, increase the number of employees with CDL licenses, and optimize the time and depth of training. DLTS, by leveraging their expertise, resources, and commitment to excellence, offered this corporation a perfect answer to their CDL training and testing needs.
III. Implementation of the Training Objectives and Program
The primary goal of the partnership was to create a CDL training and testing program that would not only meet but exceed industry standards. Both organizations aimed to quickly address the company's training needs while ensuring that trainees received top-tier education, support, and certification success. The partnership aimed to develop a Comprehensive Training Curriculum by combining DLTS' driver training expertise with practical industry insights to create a curriculum that was both thorough and relevant. The most immediate requirements for this particular training were the following:
Training Program Objectives:
A specialized and unique training program for higher skill level technicians.
Ensure training occurs on-site, on the exact equipment, and on the company’s schedule.
Keep focus on the unique needs of each trainee by providing personalized instruction to foster skill development, confidence, and success.
Implement stringent criteria to ensure that candidates receive successful certification
Continuously monitor the program's outcomes and make data-driven adjustments to improve effectiveness and trainee satisfaction.
From the outset, the trainers at DLTS and leaders at the corporation set clear, measurable objectives for the program to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. The primary goals included the following:
Continual Effectiveness Measures
Ensure that trainees gain a thorough understanding of equipment.
Provide ample practical driving experience to build confidence and competence.
Emphasize the importance of safety standards and compliance with all federal and state regulations.
To accommodate the training of 16 technicians in a one-week period, DLTS designed and scheduled an individualized plan that would meet the company’s needs. The schedule was designed to be intensive yet flexible, allowing trainees to progress at their own pace while ensuring they met all necessary competencies. DLTS started with an assessment to recognize each driver’s needs and then created an individualized rotation to optimize the amount of time each driver needed to achieve success. All training was done on-site with minimal time waiting for instruction and practice on the specific skills.
In addition to the above curriculum, flexibility in the program needed to be implemented to support each trainee’s unique strengths and needed areas for improvement. Multiple instructors were on-site to provide personalized instruction and offer re-teaching and additional practice when necessary including:
1. Personal Assessments: Initial and ongoing assessments to identify each trainee's specific needs and tailor training accordingly.
2. Peer Support: Encouraging a collaborative learning environment where trainees could share experiences and support each other.
3. Feedback Mechanisms: Regular feedback loops involving self-assessment, peer review, and instructor evaluation to track progress and make necessary adjustments.
Trainees reported high levels of satisfaction with the program, noting the thoroughness of the training and the supportive learning environment. Many highlighted the individualized attention as a critical factor in their success, helping them to overcome personal obstacles and achieve their CDL goals.
In summary, the training program achieved a 100% pass rate on the CDL testing -DLTS has successfully trained 66 technicians across two states, achieving a 100% pass rate. This partnership marked by clear objectives, a structured yet adaptable schedule, and a strong emphasis on personalized training laid a solid foundation for trainees to excel in their CDL testing and ultimately contributed to the partnership's success story.
IV. Conclusion
The partnership has culminated in a resounding success story in the realm of CDL training and testing. By combining the expertise and resources of both organizations, the partnership has set new benchmarks in CDL training and certification by not only achieving their initial goals but also paving the way for future innovations in the training industry.
The meticulous development of training objectives and schedules has ensured that trainees receive the most relevant and up-to-date instruction tailored to their individual needs and learning paces. In addition, the robust testing and certification process, grounded in stringent criteria and high standards, has further cemented the program's credibility and effectiveness. The impressive success rates of trainees passing their CDL tests are a testament to the thoroughness and quality of the training they receive. This partnership has not only equipped trainees with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers but has also raised the bar for CDL training programs nationwide.
In conclusion, the DLTS approach to CDL training that focuses on one-on-one partnerships with companies demonstrates the power of strategic planning in achieving common goals and driving industry advancements. As the program continues to evolve, partnerships like this should remain in the forefront of CDL training, setting new benchmarks for success and paving the way for future innovations in the field.
Gary Anderson – (913) 952-7024
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