Dads Matter to DEC
Fathers from three counties in southwestern Pennsylvania will have an opportunity to train for their commercial driver’s license (CDL) for free thanks to funding provided by the Department of Health and Human Services’ Federal Fatherhood Program. Douglas Education Center (DEC) in Monessen is partnering with Private Industry Council of Westmore land County and the Dads Matter Program to put local fathers behind the wheel to fill the countless open CDL positions throughout the region. The program is open to dads in Westmoreland, Washington, Fayette and Beaver Counties.
“We get calls every week for truck drivers coming out of our CDL program,” says Jeffrey D. Imbrescia, president and CEO of DEC. “There are far more truck driving jobs than drivers right now. Starting salaries for new drivers are going up because of demand. Many companies even offer sign-on bonuses.”
“Fathers who are looking to switch careers and make a good living, and receive their training for free to do it? That’s an incredible opportunity,” adds Imbrescia.
DEC’s Commercial Driver’s License Program consists of a comprehensive 7-week training course at its campus in Monessen, as well as a satellite training facility in Connellsville. The students will be prepared to sit for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania CDL Class “A” and tanker endorsement permit. Upon obtaining their permits, students will be given hands-on experience driving a commercial vehicle in preparation for taking their Commonwealth of Pennsylvania CDL Class “A” and tanker endorsement examination and will be afforded the opportunity to take the exam as a part of the course.
“The Private Industry Council has been a leader in workforce development in our region for over 35 years. This partnership with DEC and the Dad’s Matter Grant will create opportunities for Dad’s to obtain a short-term credential in as little as seven weeks and have multiple job offers that enable them to provide high wage resources to their families. This program provides that opportunity for any participating dad in the three-county area. “ explains Sean Sypolt, Vice President of Business Services Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc.
