The Jefferson County Development Authority (JCDA) has annouced that All-State Career Inc. (ASC), has leased training and office space in Jefferson County in order to offer a course that prepares participants for the commercial driver’s “A” licensure test and entry level commercial driving employment. After five weeks of course work, students will be eligible to join an industry that is facing a shortage of 30,000 truck drivers nationwide, according to the American Trucking Association. Financial assistance is available from Workforce West Virginia, for those who qualify under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA).
ASC has signed a lease with the Citizens Fire Company in Charles Town to use its parking lot for the vehicle operation portion of the course. Leasing fees paid to the fire company could help offset recent cuts to the Jefferson County budget that will impact fire, rescue and other public service funding.
The school has rented space in Burr Plaza in Kearneysville to use as classrooms and office space for a site director, admissions personnel and instructors.
“We are very pleased to welcome All State Career to our growing family of fine tenants here at BURR Plaza” said RAI Properties managing partner Jim Ruland. “It’s yet another indication that BURR Plaza truly is one of the most desirable business addresses in the Eastern Panhandle.”
“We chose Jefferson County for its convenient location to major trucking routes and for the availability of employment opportunities for drivers,” said the president of ASC. “Those who are seeking employment and are considering commercial driving should act now. We have a national driver shortage creating tremendous opportunity for new drivers.”
ASC offers vocational training programs relevant in today’s job market. ASC has made prior forays into West Virginia with class offerings in Wheeling and Beckley.
“This is one of those quintessential win-win endeavors for all parties involved,” said John Reisenweber, executive director of the JCDA. “Our mission is to attract new business, support existing businesses and aid with job creation. We’ve done that here and we look forward to working with All-State Career Inc., and helping our citizens reap the benefits of the institution’s educational offerings.”
The CDL-A class will begin in January or February and will meet Monday through Friday for five consecutive weeks. Participants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid CDL learner’s permit and pass a drug screening test and Department of Transportation physical. Those interested may contact ASC at 443-467-6392.
“We are pleased to have the additional income from this public-private partnership, which will allow us to better serve Jefferson County and keep its citizens safe,” said Ron Fletcher, Citizens Fire Company president. “And I’d like to thank the JCDA for bringing this opportunity to us.”
Jefferson County, WV, located in the Eastern Panhandle, enjoys a strategic Mid-Atlantic location, 60 miles from Washington D.C. and 45 minutes from Dulles Airport, with quick and easy access to Interstate 80 and the Eastern business corridor. It offers a business-friendly climate and the nation’s fourth lowest cost of doing business.
Located in the 400-acre Burr Business Park in Kearneysville, the JCDA’s mission is to provide an increased and diverse tax base for Jefferson County. The organization advances economic development, supports existing businesses and stimulates and promotes industrial, commercial and agricultural expansion. For more information visit www.jcda.net or contact us at 304-728-3255, info@jcda.net.