GHENT, WV (LOOTPRESS) – In a statewide push to modernize and enhance Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training, instructors from several West Virginia community and technical colleges gathered at New River Community and Technical College’s Advanced Technology Center for an intensive CDL simulation training refresher.
The training, sponsored by West Virginia Workforce and led by Driver Training Solutions (formerly L3Harris), focused on the use of advanced driving simulators. These high-tech tools are designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, providing immersive, hands-on scenarios that teach new drivers how to safely operate large commercial vehicles.
“We’re refreshing our training for the CDL simulators and working on new scenario packages that help beginner drivers learn basic control over large commercial vehicles,” said Jeff Trout, Transportation/CDL Instructor at Southern Community and Technical College. “This will all help them prepare to move from simulation into the actual trucks.”
Instructors from Northern Community College, Bridge Valley Community and Technical College, and others joined the refresher course to ensure CDL training remains up-to-date and aligned with industry needs. It’s the second time New River CTC has hosted the event, thanks to its state-of-the-art facilities.
“One of the most amazing facilities I’ve been to, for sure,” Trout added. “The space, the accommodations, the staff—it’s all been unreal. It’s been a blessing to get to come up here.”
The training underscores a statewide commitment to producing skilled, safety-conscious commercial drivers ready to enter the workforce. By staying ahead with simulation-based education, West Virginia’s technical colleges aim to strengthen the state’s economy and transportation infrastructure.
To learn more about New River CTC’s CDL program, visit the New River CDL Program page.
