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Truck drivers ‘greatly needed’ in Okaloosa County, grant funding available to students

FleetForce Truck Driving School and Northwest Florida State College are seeking individuals interested in careers in supply chain, logistics and transportation. Commercial truck drivers are greatly needed across the Florida […]

Jared Williams

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FleetForce Truck Driving School and Northwest Florida State College are seeking individuals interested in careers in supply chain, logistics and transportation.

Commercial truck drivers are greatly needed across the Florida Panhandle to support businesses and the growing regional economy, according to FleetForce Truck Driving School.

With support from the state, over $900,000 in grant funding is available for aspiring commercial driver’s license students seeking financial assistance to complete the program.

“The average starting salary for commercial truck drivers in Florida is nearly $80,000, and the demand for drivers continues to grow,” said Tra Williams, CEO of FleetForce Truck Driving School. “The entire region needs truck drivers to support local businesses, the workforce and the economy. Like the rest of the nation, the panhandle relies on truck drivers to bring basic everyday items that get more and more expensive when drivers are scarce.”

Northwest Florida State College receives $1.5 Million for the expansion of CDL Program

In addition to competitive salaries, FleetForce says graduates often receive health care and retirement benefits, paid vacation and more. Class A programs last four weeks, and new classes begin every Monday.

Pre-hire opportunities that match students with businesses prior to program completion are often available thanks to support from the Florida Trucking Association.

“The economic benefits of recruiting more certified commercial truck drivers in our region is immense,” said Jason Shoaf, District 7 member of the Florida House of Representatives. “Our community is crucial for the rest of our state, and nation’s, supply chain and logistics operations. Okaloosa County and its surrounding towns have an opportunity to build on its workforce, support businesses, and see our economy thrive.”

In partnership with Northwest Florida State College, FleetForce is licensed by the Florida Department of Education, the Committee for Independent Education and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

For more information on enrollment, visit www.fleetforcetruckdrivingschool.com or call 850-772-4235.

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