SHINGLEHOUSE — Tractor-trailers are a ubiquitous sight on American highways, bustling along day and night. Now, four high school seniors from Potter County are set to blaze a trail as the first graduates to participate in a pilot CDL program.

Hosted at Oswayo Valley High School for OVHS graduating seniors, this initiative is provided by Northern Pennsylvania Regional College and Potter County CareerLink. Under the guidance of PA Pride LLC, students will undergo four weeks of classroom and driving instruction over the summer.

Upon successful completion of the course and state tests, these budding drivers may soon be seen navigating semi-trucks or snowplows along highways and state routes.

The criteria for participation in this program are as follows:

— graduation from high school with a diploma in hand at the start of the course;

— completion of pre-course workshops to qualify for funding covering the course fees;

— passing a Department of Transportation physical examination;

— and clearing a mandatory drug screening.

Once these prerequisites are fulfilled and students are enrolled, they only need to await graduation and receipt of their diploma.

The course kicks off on July 8 and concludes Aug. 2. The CDL Title 1 program features a comprehensive curriculum, with classroom sessions held at Oswayo Valley High School and practical driving exercises conducted in the school’s parking lot.

The pilot project aims to establish an annual opportunity, offering graduating seniors in this area a pathway to lucrative careers. Entry-level CDL Title 1 licensed drivers can expect a median salary of $48,310 along with additional benefits.

While age and experience restrictions apply, this opportunity presents an opportunity for high school graduates who dream of a career behind the wheel.

The class is filled for this summer’s pilot program. 

(Revised 3-14-24 to correct some information)