WCC graduated its next class of truck driver training graduates. Pictured, from left: Instructor Dorian Sauls, Angel Gaona, Gregorio Gaona Garza, Anthony Cumby, Dionte Artis, Andrew Scott, Ian Harper, Instructor Jaquan Artis, Instructor Christopher Cobb and back row, from left: Instructor Joshua Simmons, Anthony Mazariegos, Evaristo G. Herrera, Jessica Martinez, Charleshia Parks, Donald Alley, and Instructor Mary Boykin, front row. Not pictured: Mario Bailon, Anthony Elliot, Eduardo Gonzalez, Thomas Herring, Delton Lancaster, Lavoris Vick, and Chevis Williams. (Photo courtesy WCC)

WCC graduated its next class of truck driver training graduates. Pictured, from left: Instructor Dorian Sauls, Angel Gaona, Gregorio Gaona Garza, Anthony Cumby, Dionte Artis, Andrew Scott, Ian Harper, Instructor Jaquan Artis, Instructor Christopher Cobb and back row, from left: Instructor Joshua Simmons, Anthony Mazariegos, Evaristo G. Herrera, Jessica Martinez, Charleshia Parks, Donald Alley, and Instructor Mary Boykin, front row. Not pictured: Mario Bailon, Anthony Elliot, Eduardo Gonzalez, Thomas Herring, Delton Lancaster, Lavoris Vick, and Chevis Williams. (Photo courtesy WCC)

GOLDSBORO – Wayne Community College has graduated its next class of truck drivers.

Graduates of the Truck Driver Training program were tested through written and behind-the-wheel exams to ensure they have the skills and knowledge required to safely and successfully operate commercial vehicles. These individuals earned a Class A Commercial Driver’s License, DOT 380 certificate, and WCC Workforce Continuing Education certificate.

This is the College’s second class of graduates from the program’s daytime course and 13th class for the evening course.

At a special ceremony held to honor the graduates, WCC President Patty Pfeiffer told the new truck drivers that their career path made them the backbone of the economy. “The road ahead may be long and winding, but with your skill, determination, and unwavering spirit, I have no doubt that you will reach great heights in your career and be very successful,” she said.

The 18 graduates, listed by hometown, are:

Beulaville

Eduardo Gonzalez

Dudley

Jessica Martinez

Goldsboro

Donald Alley

Dionte Artis

Anthony Elliot

Evaristo G. Herrera

Ian Harper

Delton Lancaster

Lavoris Vick

Chevis Williams

Kenansville

Mario Bailon

La Grange

Angel Gaona

Charleshia Parks

Andrew Scott

Pikeville

Anthony Cumby

Thomas Herring

Seven Springs

Gregorio Gaona Garza

Anthony Mazariegos

Graduate Anthony Cumby spoke about his time in the program during the ceremony. “I think we all can say it was an unforgettable experience,” he said. “WCC has helped us reach the next level of success by creating drivers who are not only safe and aware but also competitive and knowledgeable.”

Delton Lancaster, another graduate, said the support from others was crucial to their completion of the program. “With the direction of our instructors, encouragement of fellow students, and advice from previous students, I was able to pass, as well as the entire class. We encouraged each other in the different skills we had to learn,” he shared.

“We are really excited about what is going to happen for you and through you as you embark upon your new careers,” said WCC Vice President of Workforce Continuing Education Services and Community Engagement Renita Dawson.

The College’s Truck Driver Training program was established in response to requests from local businesses and industries that need qualified drivers. Graduates of the program can expect to earn from $40,000 to $60,000 annually in their first year with an established company. Employment is available locally, regionally, and nationally in various industries, in governmental agencies, and by self-employment.

The program’s next course will run from May 7–Aug. 8. Classes will be held at the College from 6–10 p.m. on Tuesdays through Thursdays and 7 a.m.–4 p.m. on Saturdays.

A list of enrollment requirements, as well as details about the program, can be found at https://www.waynecc.edu/truck.

For more information about the Truck Driver Training program, contact WCC Workforce and Community Service Programs Coordinator Lisa Newkirk at 919-739-6931 or ldnewkirk@waynecc.edu.

Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, N.C. As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves around 10,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 150 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.