BALTIMORE — Maryland New Directions (MND), Baltimore’s leader in job training and career counseling, is partnering with a local transportation provider to provide much-needed commercial transportation training and solid career opportunities to Baltimore residents. Trainees who complete MND’s no-cost, 60-hour, three-week training program and pass a written CDL permit exam will be equipped for behind-the-wheel training provided by our partner, preparing them to earn a CDL-B driver’s license and providing the foundation for a successful career.
MND designed the Commercial Transportation Career (CTC) training program to fill two significant needs: improving the accessibility for those who want to work in commercial transportation and increasing the employment and helping employers identify and retain high quality CDL-B licensed drivers. Together, these two goals also address and support the overall transportation needs of residents and businesses in Baltimore City.
Modeled on MND’s successful Maritime Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Training Program, CTC training is designed for candidates with no previous commercial driving experience.
The first class begins on September 18, 2017. Applicants to the program must be 21 or older; have a good driving record; commit to three weeks of initial training; have a high school diploma or GED; pass a drug screening; submit to a criminal background check; and be willing to take US Dept. of Transportation physical exam as required for employment.
“MND is proud to address Baltimore’s workforce and transportation needs through our Commercial Transportation Careers (CTC) model,” said Maurice Good, MND Program Director.
Completing this program will provide accessible entry into this expanding job sector, helping individuals prepare for, and pass, the pre-requisites and exams necessary to earn their CDL-B licenses. They’ll also gain access to stable, well-paid employment with our commercial transportation partner or other employers throughout Baltimore.
“By monitoring community and client needs,” said Barbara Reed-DiGia, MND Resources & Operations Director, “We can quickly adapt our specialized training to meet the needs of a specific industry. This enables us to prepare candidate for a fields experiencing job growth, like we’re seeing with transportation. As a result, our clients secure living wage careers, and employers have a skilled hiring pool. It’s a win for everyone.”
Interested individuals should contact MND at 410-230-0630 or email: www.MdNewDirections.org