Contributed Photo Graduates of the first commercial driver’s license class offered at College of Menominee Nation are, from left, Weston Fredenberg, Adam Waukau Sr. and Shannon Tucker.
Three area men are the first to receive commercial driver’s license certification through a new program offered this year at the College of Menominee Nation.
Graduating on June 30 were Weston Fredenberg, of Gresham, Adam Waukau Sr., of Keshena, and Shannon Tucker, of Middle Village.
The men earned the Class A CDL certification required for employment in over-the-road driving of semitractor-trailers for commercial use. The national requirement applies to drivers of any type of vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds, or 10,001 pounds with any type of trailer towed.
The training is a pilot series offered as a collaborative effort of the college, Menominee Job Center Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act program, Bay Area Workforce Development and Fox Valley Technical College.
Enrollment for the July CDL session at CMN has reached capacity, but a waiting list of eligible applicants is being developed. An August session is planned.
The four-week program offered at the college’s Keshena campus includes training with an instructor and truck from FVTC’s transportation program.
Pre-certification requires applicants to obtain a commercial learner’s permit, hold a driver’s license, be 18 or older, and be able to pass physical and drug tests.
The Job Center at CMN will work with individuals in obtaining the necessary certifications and determining eligibility Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act coverage of tuition and pre-certification costs. The WIOA program is funded by the Bay Area Workforce Development Board to assist in job searches and placement, to assess skills and barriers to employment, and to provide labor market and career skill enhancement.
Information on the WIOA eligibility is available by calling the Menominee Job Center at 715-799- 6226, ext. 3281. For questions about the college’s CDL program, contact Annette Miller, job-based training specialist, at amiller@menominee.edu or 715-799- 6226, ext. 3097.