South Louisiana Community College is relaunching its Commercial Vehicle Operator curriculum at its Acadian Campus in Crowley.

According to the SLCC Web site, the short-term program teaches students to become licensed commercial drivers within a 35-course, 245-hour curriculum.

The course description lists students will receive instruction on operating diesel-powered tractor trailer rigs, identifying common vehicle components, handling cargo properly, backing and maneuvering tractor trailers, logging necessary paperwork, and driving defensively.

As part of the hands-on experience within the course students will practice their driving skills on rural, urban, and interstate roadways.

At the conclusion of the program, participants will earn a Technical Competency Area (TCA) certificate in Commercial Vehicle Operations.

According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and Lafayette Economic Development Authority, more than 31,000 truck-driving jobs are projected by 2022 throughout Acadiana and statewide.

“The average salary for truck drivers is $41,183 (La. Workforce Commission),” said Willie Smith, Ph.D., vice chancellor for Economic and Workforce Development. “SLCC is reactivating this program to address the emerging demands.”

Prospective students can sign up for the program by visiting the SLCC Web site, or by clicking here.

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