BALTIMORE, MD – Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hosted a press conference at the Community College of Baltimore County to highlight how more than $140 million through FMCSA’s grant programs will be used nationwide to enhance roadway safety by providing CDL training to military veterans (including National Guard and Reserves) and certain family members, advancing technological capabilities, and supporting state CDL programs. FMCSA was joined by partners from the office of U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, the Maryland Department of Transportation, Baltimore County, Community College of Baltimore County, Cecil College, and Wor-Wic Community College.
“At FMCSA, we are serious about our mission of reducing crashes and fatalities on the nation’s roadways that involve large trucks and buses. Together, these grants represent our commitment to investing in America and our dedication to supporting strong state and local partnerships that not only help ensure safe, qualified CMV drivers are on the roads but also work to enhance overall roadway safety.”
– Vinn White, Deputy Administrator, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation
“Two of our key goals in passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act was to improve roadway safety and create more good-paying jobs for Marylanders. That’s why we secured this federal funding to help veterans, their family members, and others participate in Commercial Driver’s License Training programs at community colleges — programs that will help them secure a good paycheck and make our streets and highways safer for all travelers.”
– Chris Van Hollen, U.S. Senator
“Thanks to FMCSA for their investment and continued partnership with MDOT, and thank you to all the community college partners, because you fuel our economy.”
– Jawauna Greene, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and Strategy, Maryland Department of Transportation
“Together, we are not only showcasing the individuals who receive this training, but also the communities they will support. As we break down barriers to those individuals seeking a career in the trucking industry, I know these opportunities will be transformational and will also change lives.”
– Jonathan Sachs, Director, Department of Economic and Workforce Development, Baltimore County
“We are huge players in providing a skilled workforce, and since Maryland needs 3,300 CDL drivers over the next few years, we knew we needed to respond. With this generous grant from FMCSA, we will train 50 new drivers every year. This grant is a very special gift to our community, our county, and our state. We’re proud of the role our college plays in meeting workforce needs, and we’re proud to have FMCSA as a partner.”
– Dr. Sandra Kurtinitis, President, Community College of Baltimore County
“As the child of a veteran, I’m so grateful because my mother’s Army service has given me the opportunity to take this training. I’ve enjoyed my experience and learned so much. I’ve gotten a job offer and I would love the opportunity to train other drivers. I can say my life has already changed for the better thanks to this program.”
– Destiny Franklin, Recent Graduate, Community College of Baltimore County CDL Training Program
A recording of the full press conference can be found on our website.
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Original article published by FMCSA