RIVER GROVE, Ill.– Triton College and Pace Bus are pleased to announce their partnership to provide a free CDL Class B commercial driver's license permit course for the next generation of professional bus operators.
Triton College and Pace Bus have teamed up to offer a customized two-week program to assist qualified applicants in obtaining their CDL permit. To remove financial barriers for students to pursue and complete the program actively, Pace will cover the costs of tuition, training, books, fees, and other expenses associated with the program.
On July 5, 2023, Triton College will host a pre-hire event for job seekers to meet with Pace staff. The event is mandatory for anyone interested in attending the permit course. During the 3-hour event, which begins promptly at 6 p.m., in Room A-122 (A Building) applicants will complete a screening process which includes an application, an assessment questionnaire, and background check paperwork. All candidates must bring a valid driver's license and a DMV or Secretary of State Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) (also called Driving Record Abstracts) showing a good driving record over the last five years.
Assessment results will be available 2–4 days after the event, when candidates must complete an Illinois Department of Transportation physical and drug screening. Pace will cover the cost of these screenings. Candidates who pass these screenings will be enrolled in a training course that will take place in River Grove at Triton College.
"Pace offers rewarding careers and a path to success for people who are passionate about public service. We are thrilled to partner with Triton College on this effort," said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “Offering this course for free creates a win-win for everyone. Those looking for a new career get access to the free instruction they need, and Pace gets the operators it needs to keep providing the essential service our region relies on.”
“The Pace and Triton College partnership allows Triton to work towards its mission of educating and serving the community,” said Dr. Bianca Sola-Perkins, Dean of Continuing Education. “The college strives to offer the community equitable opportunities for growth and success. This initiative provides individuals with an accelerated pathway towards a new career, creating a unique workforce development opportunity for the district.”
This opportunity will provide jobs and program wages with minimum pay starting at $20.00. Qualified candidates who complete the two-week will transition to a six-week, paid, on-the-job training with Pace. For more information about the program, please visit PaceBus.com/careers or triton.edu/ce.
*Candidates are responsible for the cost of the MVR, which is $12.
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