EHOVE Career Center is proud to announce the launch of the new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training Program, designed to help adult learners gain the skills and credentials needed to begin stable, high-demand driving careers. The first Adult Education class through the new EHOVE Truck Driving Academy begins November 3, and enrollment is open now.
The CDL Training Program will be led by Eddie Holcomb, EHOVE’s Training Manager and Instructor, who brings over 16 years of CDL experience and three years as a certified instructor. “I’m excited to launch this new CDL program because it opens the door to stable, high-demand careers for our adult learners here at EHOVE,” said Holcomb. “Our goal is to give students the hands-on skills and confidence they need to succeed on the road and in life. This program isn’t just about driving trucks - it’s about driving futures.”
Classes will include more than 40 hours of classroom instruction at EHOVE covering all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles requirements, along with extensive behind-the-wheel training. Hands-on practice will take place in the large lot at Avery Commerce Park, located across the street from EHOVE’s main campus. EHOVE’s fleet consists of six vehicles. Three of the semi trucks and one trailer were donated by Ploger Transportation in Norwalk.
Jamie Starcher, EHOVE’s Public Safety and Customized Training Coordinator, emphasized how critical this program is for the region’s workforce. “The trucking and logistics industry faces a nationwide driver shortage, so qualified drivers are in very high demand,” said Starcher. “This program offers adults access to stable, in-demand careers with consistent work and opportunities across multiple sectors.” He added, “CDL holders are in great demand and these are great-paying jobs with great benefits.”
The new program is designed for adults with a current Class D driver’s license and a CDL Class A learner’s permit. It provides a direct path into driving careers that range from local delivery to long-haul transport. “If they want to make a great living and see the country, it’s a great way to do it,” said Holcomb.
Laura Dowdell, EHOVE’s Adult Education Director, said the program fulfills a major regional need. “Jobs as drivers in our region routinely top the chart for the most in-demand job openings, but there have been few training opportunities in the immediate area,” she explained. “By adding this program, EHOVE is clearly fulfilling our mission of training our future workforce for in-demand careers.”
Dowdell added that the CDL program is built for accessibility and results. “Our CDL program is designed to prepare students with the coursework and driving skills needed to earn a CDL Class A license in Ohio. The course is set up to be attended full time, helping busy adults achieve their new career goals in a short time frame.”
EHOVE Superintendent Chris M. McCully noted that the program reflects the school’s continued investment in workforce readiness. “Launching this new CDL program represents our commitment to meeting the needs of both our adult learners and our local workforce,” McCully said. “By offering hands-on training that leads directly to high-demand careers, we’re helping strengthen our community’s economic future.”
Enrollment is now open for the inaugural class beginning November 3. For more information about the CDL Training Program, go to www.ehove.net/o/adult-ed/page/cdl or call (419) 499-4663.
