Glen Oaks welcomes first CDL-A class in Sturgis
Based in Sturgis, the accelerated three-week program combines classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel training, giving students the skills needed to earn a CDL-A license and begin careers in commercial trucking. The program is offered through a partnership between Glen Oaks Community College and Regen Trucking School.
The first cohort of students has officially begun Commercial Driver’s License Class A (CDL-A) training through Glen Oaks Community College, marking the launch of a new workforce development program designed to prepare students for one of Michigan’s most in-demand careers.
Based in Sturgis, the accelerated three-week program combines classroom instruction with behind-the-wheel training, giving students the skills needed to earn a CDL-A license and begin careers in commercial trucking. The program is offered through a partnership between Glen Oaks Community College and Regen Trucking School. Classroom instruction takes place in the Glen Oaks Community College Dresser Business Development Auditorium, while behind-the-wheel training is conducted at a dedicated driving range on property provided by UKT (Automotive AC Design & Consulting, LLC).
In just three weeks, participants can prepare for careers that offer competitive wages and strong employment opportunities without spending years in a traditional degree program.
“This program reflects exactly what Glen Oaks Community College exists to do,” said Dr. Bryan Newton, president of Glen Oaks Community College. “We are creating opportunities that change lives while strengthening our regional workforce. In just a few weeks, these students will be prepared to enter careers that offer excellent wages, long-term stability and opportunities for advancement. At the same time, local employers gain access to the skilled workforce they need to keep our economy moving. That is a powerful example of our mission in action.”
Students complete online and classroom instruction before climbing behind the wheel of a Class A tractor-trailer for hands-on training with certified instructors from Regen Trucking School. The curriculum includes vehicle inspections, backing maneuvers, shifting techniques, range exercises, and on-road driving experience designed to prepare students for Michigan’s CDL skills examination and federal Entry-Level Driver Training requirements.
The program was created to address the growing demand for qualified commercial truck drivers throughout Southwest Michigan and northern Indiana. According to the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers remain among Michigan’s Hot 50 occupations through 2032, with approximately 6,420 annual job openings statewide and 485 annual openings across Southwest Michigan. Regional wages range from $22 to $29 per hour, while experienced drivers often earn significantly more depending on endorsements, route type, and employer.
UKT, a longtime innovator in HVAC technology and property development, played a key role in making the program possible by providing the outdoor training site in Sturgis. Company owners Danila and Giuliano Ungarelli, recognized internationally for developing patented HVAC technologies, partnered with Glen Oaks to create a dedicated training space where students can safely develop the skills required to operate commercial vehicles.
“Partnerships like this allow us to quickly respond to local workforce demands,” said Dr. Adam L. Cloutier, vice president of academics. “Our collaboration with Regen Trucking ensures that students not only receive top-quality instruction but also have access to a network of employers ready to hire qualified graduates.”
The Sturgis location expands access to commercial driver training for residents across St. Joseph County and surrounding communities, reducing the need to travel long distances for CDL-A instruction while supporting local employers who continue to seek qualified drivers.
Additional CDL-A training cohorts are planned throughout the year. Workforce funding may be available for eligible students through Michigan Works! and other workforce development partners, helping reduce financial barriers for individuals seeking a new career.
For more information about the Glen Oaks Community College CDL-A program or to register for an upcoming class, https://glenoaks.edu/cdl
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