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Commercial Driver's License

What is it?

A CDL driver, also known as a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver, operates large and heavy vehicles that require a special driver’s license – the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). These vehicles typically weigh over 26,000 pounds and can include:

  • Tractor-trailers: Large trucks that haul trailers containing various goods and materials across long distances.
  • Delivery trucks: Trucks used to transport goods from warehouses or distribution centers to retail stores or other destinations.
  • Dump trucks: Trucks equipped with a hydraulic bed that lifts and tilts to unload loose materials like gravel, sand, or debris.
  • Tank trucks: Trucks designed to transport liquids, such as fuel, oil, or chemicals.
  • Passenger buses: Large vehicles used to transport passengers over long distances or within cities.

Here’s a breakdown of the key responsibilities of a CDL driver:

Transportation and Delivery:

  • Safe and efficient operation of commercial motor vehicles: CDL drivers are responsible for operating their assigned vehicles safely and efficiently, adhering to traffic regulations and maintaining safe driving practices.
  • Loading and unloading cargo: Depending on the specific role and regulations, some CDL drivers may be responsible for loading and unloading cargo onto their vehicles, ensuring it is secure and properly documented.
  • Following designated routes and schedules: Drivers typically follow predetermined routes and adhere to strict schedules to ensure timely deliveries and meet logistical demands.

Pre-trip inspections and maintenance:

  • Conducting pre-trip inspections: Before each trip, CDL drivers are required to perform thorough inspections of their vehicles to ensure they are in safe operating condition, checking brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components.
  • Maintaining basic vehicle maintenance: In some cases, drivers may perform basic maintenance tasks like topping up fluids or changing tires, ensuring their vehicles continue to operate safely and efficiently.
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Length of Training

4-9 weeks

Type of Training

Hybrid/In Person

* Salary Range

$41,800 - $65,800

(entry level – experienced)

* Regional Jobs Available

6.091

(3 year forecast)

Additional responsibilities may include:

Drivers may need to complete various documents related to their trips, such as logs recording their hours of service, inspection reports, and delivery receipts.

Depending on the role, drivers may interact with customers at delivery points, warehouse personnel, or other stakeholders involved in the logistics chain.

CDL drivers are responsible for staying informed about and adhering to various regulations governing commercial vehicle operations, including safety regulations, weight limits, and hours of service restrictions.

  • Type of vehicle: Different types of commercial vehicles have unique handling characteristics and require specific driving skills and knowledge.
  • Industry: The specific cargo being transported and the industry standards can influence the driver’s responsibilities.
  • Company policies and regulations: Different companies may have their own safety protocols, loading/unloading procedures, and route planning practices that drivers need to follow.
A red semi-truck drives down a highway under a partly cloudy sky, its driver contemplating the available scholarships that could open new job opportunities.

Is it Right For You?

Here are some essential skills and qualities for success as a CDL driver:

  • Strong driving skills: Excellent ability to maneuver large vehicles safely and navigate various road conditions is crucial.
  • Map reading and GPS navigation: Familiarity with maps and proficiency in using GPS navigation systems are essential for efficient route planning and following directions.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills: Effective communication with dispatchers, warehouse personnel, and other stakeholders is necessary for smooth operation.
  • Time management and organizational skills: Drivers need to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines, plan routes, and adhere to rest periods as per regulations.
  • Physical fitness and stamina: The job often involves physical activity, such as loading and unloading cargo, and requires stamina for long hours behind the wheel.
  • Ability to work independently: While some interaction occurs, CDL drivers often spend extended periods working independently while on the road.

Overall, a career as a CDL driver offers diverse opportunities for individuals who enjoy operating large vehicles, value contributing to the logistics network, and thrive in a dynamic and independent work environment. It requires a strong commitment to safety, adherence to regulations, and the ability to navigate the ever-evolving world of commercial transportation.

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A group of graduates in caps and gowns celebrating outdoors. Text on the image reads "Over $12 million in scholarships being awarded." These scholarships are paving the way for promising careers.
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Stephanie underwood - Chief financial Officer

Stephanie Underwood serves as Chief Financial Officer at Great Jobs KC, where she leads the organization’s financial strategy in support of its mission to create economic mobility through education and workforce opportunities. With more than 17 years of experience in nonprofit finance, Stephanie brings deep expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. She is passionate about using her career as a platform to serve and support mission-driven organizations, helping them maximize impact through strong financial stewardship.

Prior to joining Great Jobs KC, Stephanie served as Chief Financial Officer for Griffith Centers, a behavioral and mental health organization, where she oversaw financial operations for a multi-million-dollar organization spanning residential, educational, and community-based programs. She also spent nearly a decade as Vice President of Accounting Services at NFP Partners, providing CFO-level leadership to nonprofit organizations across the country, with a focus on strategic growth, audit readiness, and governance.

Outside of her professional role, Stephanie volunteers her time at her church and serves on the board of a local nonprofit. She is known for her collaborative leadership style and her commitment to aligning financial strategy with mission impact. She holds a Master of Science in Accounting and is proud to be a first-generation college graduate.

 

 

 

Adult Learner College Scholarship

The Adult Learner Scholarship application is closed. Please click GET STARTED to be added to communication reminders on when to apply during the next open cycle.

Program offers:

  • Up to $25,000 paid directly to the college over the course of up to six years.
  • Once awarded, the Scholar can enroll full or part-time the fall semester following awarding.
  • Scholarship can be used at any of our college partners. See our current list of partners HERE.
  • Scholarship can be used towards an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or a credit-bearing credential. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Be a high school graduate or GED holder (24 years or older).
  • Live in one of the six eligible counties. (Kansas: Wyandotte, Johnson; Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte)
  • Be income eligible. (FASFA Student Aid Index of 12,000 or less)
  • Have not previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
  • Have not previously been awarded a KC Scholars Scholarship (Traditional or Adult Learner).
  • Is not currently enrolled in a Great Jobs KC Skills Training Program.
  • US Citizenship/Residency is not required to apply.

If you need more information on program details, please find our FAQs HERE

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Jimmy Swift - Chief Operating Officer

As the Chief Operating Officer, Jimmy Swift is responsible for overseeing our core programs, our adult workforce development program, Great Jobs KC tuition-free job training, and our KC Scholars Scholarship Program, which includes 11th Grade Traditional Scholarships and Adult Learner Scholarships. 

Jimmy has a career in education that spans more than 25 years and is built around supporting and improving the performance of career training programs and leading the operations of degree-granting institutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management and has served as Campus President, Vice President of Career Services, and Executive Director of various career schools.  

Most recently, Jimmy served as the Vice President of PLA University at Phalen Leadership Academies, bringing access to job skill training to the parents and families of the Scholars served by Phalen Leadership schools across the country.  Beyond his higher education experience, Jimmy serves as the Executive Board Chairman for Project Safety Net NY, a nonprofit community-based agency delivering a broad range of health, education, and prevention services to the New York Community. As the Chief Operating Officer for Great Jobs KC, he and his team are poised to make a substantial impact on the economic stability and future of Kansas City.

Great Jobs KC
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