Midland College's Transportation Training Program has received a significant boost in the form of a Peterbilt Truck and full scholarships for 20 students. The donations aim to meet the escalating demand for large-truck drivers in the West Texas area. The scholarships, intended for students enrolling in the Transportation Training program, are supported by the Midland Development Corporation and Permian Basin Workforce Development Board.
"The Midland Development Corporation has been supporting the expansion of Midland College's transportation program since 2018 through partnerships with the Permian Basin Workforce Development Board," stated Lourcey Sams, Chairman of the Midland Development Corporation Board. "This program creates opportunities for Midlanders to advance their careers and for local employers to fill critical jobs. More CDL drivers being trained in Midland makes a tangible impact on our economy."
As reported by a news release from Midland College, industries such as oil and gas, agriculture, infrastructure development, interstate commerce, supply chain logistics continue to thrive. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for big rig truck drivers. With the economic growth of the Permian Basin showing no signs of slowing down, the need for truck drivers has reached an all-time high. The donation towards this program aims to alleviate some of this demand by encouraging potential drivers to kick-start their careers sooner.
According to that same news release, both Willie Taylor, CEO of the Permian Basin Workforce Board, and Chelsy Gann, Director of Workforce Continuing Education at Midland College see this scholarship opportunity as beneficial for both community and industries desperately needing truck drivers. The scholarships are expected to provide students with state-of-the-art training enabling them to transition into these well-paying and high-demand careers.