TCAT Dickson introduces truck driving courses at Clarksville campus

Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dickson is beginning a new truck driving program at its Clarksville campus that will give students the ability to begin a new and in-demand career in as few as seven weeks. The truck driving courses will be available at TCAT Dickson thanks to a partnership with TAG Truck Center Jackson, TN, which donated an 18-wheeler to the school to use for training. Courses will begin in October and November.

According to an article on Tennessee College of Applied Technology Dickson’s website, Cody Barber, who serves as the General Manager of TAG Truck Center Jackson, TN, was quoted as saying of the company’s donation to the school, "TCAT's Truck Driving and Diesel Powered Equipment Technology programs set the pace in assisting future truck drivers in acquiring their CDLs and teaching young diesel technicians the fundamentals of commercial and diesel truck repair. This dry van trailer donation only reinforces our commitment to the transportation industry and its future drivers and technicians.”

The donation of the 18-wheeler means that TCAT Dickson now has two full semi-truck and trailer combos that students will use for their studies and their training. Students will experience both classroom learning and behind-the-wheel instruction, with Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) testing for Class A, Class B, and Class B (S and P) examinations, and (H) endorsement for HAZMAT all included in the program. The program is a competency course, meaning all students can complete the program in 222 hours or approximately 7.4 weeks of study, but those who are particularly talented in these skills can complete the program more quickly.

Dr. Levi Mayer, who serves as the Vice President of Academics and Compliance for TCAT Dickson, noted that the program is designed for complete beginners. He said, “This class is literally for someone who has never been in a semi before to becoming a licensed driver.”

Whether or not the students are complete beginners in the world of truck driving, they will be learning from experienced instructors, Jim Fisher and Michael Schnepf, who the school has hired to lead students through the course. The two have a combined 35 years of experience driving semi-trucks throughout the US and Canada. 

Fisher said, “I am truly excited to help students launch successful careers in the trucking industry. I’m passionate about teaching not only the technical skills of truck driving but also the importance of hard work, honesty, and strong work ethics – values that are vital both on and off the road.”

Echoing these sentiments, Schnepf said, “My goal is to inspire students by providing them with the tools they need to not only complete the course successfully but also to refine their skills. I want them to leave with the ability to improve their craft and, in turn, enhance their lives and support their families.”

For more information about TCAT Dickson, visit the school’s website.