A Class A CDL permit class will be held in Pagosa Springs this coming Tuesday, August 30, from 9am to 3pm.
There are a number of Pagosa businesses looking to hire qualified drivers, and individuals looking to upgrade their license who have been seeking a CDL class. Since Pagosa Springs does not offer regular CDL training classes, a special effort has been made to provide this training here in our community. Although short notice, we hope that employers and individuals will take advantage of this opportunity.
These classes are made available through the efforts of Region 9 Economic Development, the Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation (PSCDC), the Chamber of Commerce, and private businesses.
Prior to taking the class, attendees will need to obtain a CDL physical. You may get this physical through the various medical agencies available in our community or Durango. There is a limit to the number of students who will be able to take the class.
A Class A CDL license allows drivers to drive tractor/trailers, truck and trailer combinations, livestock carriers, tank vehicles and the like. It is an upgrade from the Class B license, which allows for large passenger vans, dump trucks, box trucks and similar vehicles. If you currently have a Class B license and would like to upgrade or feel you have the skills to apply for the Class A license, we encourage you to sign up for the permitting class.
The permitting class will take place on August 30 with the location to be announced to the registrants. Interested parties can register for the class by calling the Chamber at (970) 264-2360 and speaking with Mary Jo Coulehan.
After receiving the CDL permit, behind-the-wheel training will occur in the next couple of weeks (Sept. 6-16), scheduled through the training provider and the student to accommodate schedules. The actual “behind the wheel” test should occur on September 16.
Another important aspect of this training opportunity is financial. With funding through Region 9 and the PSCDC, training grants are available to students. This includes tuition for the class, or helping to pay for the physical, or any materials you may need to start your job: shoes, clothing, safety equipment, etc. In order to qualify for grant monies, applicants should contact the PSCDC through Emily Lashbrooke at admin@pagosaspringscdc.org.
Can’t get into this class? We are expecting more CDL training classes to come on board in the near future offering more opportunities for the various CDL licenses needed in our community. We are also hoping the grant dollars will remain available for a time. To get your CDL license upgraded or obtained and get financial aid is a fantastic and unique opportunity.
There is a very short window to register for this class. Don’t miss out. Contact Coulehan at (970) 264-2360 or Lashbrooke at (970) 403-4033.