Sowela Technical Community College’s Office of Workforce Solutions is now registering for a free Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B training in partnership with Venture Global LNG. Students must be Cameron Parish residents to qualify for the free training, which will take place at Sowela’s main campus in Lake Charles. Class starts Monday, Aug. 7, and spots are limited.

 

The Class B license training program is a comprehensive classroom and behind-the-wheel program. Training covers Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOT) rules and regulations, pre-trip inspection, backing pad skills, and on-the-road skills. SOWELA also offers a free online CDL permit course to those who want to take the training but still need their permit.

State-approved examiners administer the final skills test necessary to receive a state license. Completers who obtain their state license are qualified to drive tractor-trailers, dump trucks, tow trucks, delivery trucks, flatbed trucks and bucket trucks.

According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Tractor-trailer truck drivers are four-star jobs based on salary, job outlook, and educational requirements. Experienced truck drivers can earn more than $28/hour and are in demand nationally.

For more information or to register for the free CDL training class, call (337) 421-6560 or email workforce@sowela.edu.

Non-Cameron Parish residents interested in CDL training can register for the October 2023 CDL Class A training session, which costs $5,950. Scholarships and financial assistance are available for those who qualify.

The CDL program recently added the L3 Harris Hawk-I Virtual Reality (VR) Experience and L3 Harris simulator, valued at over $130,000. As the first college in Louisiana to incorporate VR technology, this tool provides students with pre-trip inspection practice, giving users a checklist to work through on the virtual 18-wheeler. Additionally, it helps students understand essential truck maintenance and troubleshooting.

The CDL simulator helps students familiarize themselves with driving a tractor-trailer before getting behind the wheel of a real one. Students’ driving skills develop in a safe and controlled environment where they can make mistakes virtually. Feedback tools enable the instructor to pinpoint areas of improvement and provide customized critiques.