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Ohio Is a Logistics Powerhouse—New CDL Program at LCJVS
If you’re looking for a career that’s in demand, pays well, and offers long-term stability, transportation and logistics may be one of the strongest pathways available today.
That’s why Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center is excited to share that we now offer an approved CDL training program for learners 18 years and older (with a high school diploma or GED) —a fast, workforce-aligned option that helps adult learners build the skills to pursue commercial driving opportunities across Lorain County and Northeast Ohio.
Program at a glance
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Program: CDL (Class A preparation)
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Eligibility: Adults 18 years or older
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Length: 160-hours (5–7 weeks)
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Cost: $6,000
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Location: Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center (Oberlin, Ohio)
Why CDL Class A, and why now?
Commercial driving sits at the center of everything we rely on—manufacturing supply chains, construction materials, food distribution, healthcare deliveries, and the daily movement of goods that keeps our economy running.
Nationally, the career outlook remains strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earned a median annual wage of $57,440 (May 2024), with the top 10% earning more than $78,800. The BLS also projects about 237,600 openings per year for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers from 2024–2034.
As employers work to keep supply chains moving and meet delivery demands, CDL drivers continue to be essential across industries.
“Workforce development is about creating real opportunity—and this approved CDL program is one more way we are building pathways that lead directly to economic mobility,” said Dr. Glenn Faircloth, Superintendent of Lorain County JVS. “At LCJVS, we’re focused on preparing learners for careers that matter—careers that support families, strengthen businesses, and advance the region.”
Ohio is a logistics powerhouse—and Lorain County is part of that growth
Ohio’s geography and infrastructure make it one of the most strategic logistics and transportation hubs in the country. The state sits within a day’s drive of a major portion of the U.S. population and connects efficiently through highways, rail, airports, and ports.
“This program is a strategic workforce investment,” said Rex Engle, President of the Lorain County JVS Board of Education. “We know transportation and logistics are essential to our regional economy. By expanding access to CDL training right here in Lorain County, we’re helping residents build careers while supporting the needs of employers and industry.”
A 5–7 week pathway built for adult learners
The LCJVS Adult Career Center CDL program is designed to help learners move from training to opportunity quickly—without sacrificing quality or alignment to employer expectations.
“Adult learners need options that are efficient, industry-aligned, and connected to real employment outcomes,” said Kristian Smith, Director of the Adult Career Center. “This approved CDL program was built with that goal in mind—so learners can gain a credential that opens doors in a matter of weeks, not years.”
The program combines practical instruction with job-ready preparation, so learners can take the next step toward licensure and commercial driving careers.
“CDL Class A training is about more than passing a test—it’s about developing safe, confident drivers who understand the expectations of today’s industry,” said Carlson Smith, CDL Program Developer and Training Manager. “Our focus is to prepare learners with the skills and professionalism that employers are looking for right now.”
Transportation careers support economic mobility
For many adults, CDL training can be a turning point—opening access to stable work, competitive wages, and long-term career growth.
“When we invest in workforce training, we invest in stronger communities,” said Marty Gallagher, Lorain County Commissioner. “This CDL program helps residents access careers that can support a family, while meeting the workforce needs that keep our local economy moving.”
Business-aligned training that supports regional growth
The CDL program is not only an educational opportunity—it’s a workforce solution. As employers across Lorain County continue to hire in logistics, distribution, and transportation, the region benefits from a local pipeline of trained talent.
“A strong workforce is one of the most important assets a region can offer employers,” said Nico Samaniego, Chief Executive Officer of the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce. “CDL training supports business growth across many sectors—manufacturing, distribution, construction—and programs like this help ensure Lorain County stays competitive.”
“ONE Lorain County is focused on supporting economic growth and ensuring residents have access to pathways that lead to family-sustaining careers,” said Lisa Hutson, President and CEO of ONE Lorain County. “This CDL program directly supports that mission by building both talent and opportunity.”
“Transportation and logistics are foundational to Northeast Ohio’s competitiveness,” said Matt Dolan, President and CEO of TeamNEO. “Industry-aligned training programs like this strengthen the workforce pipeline and support the long-term growth of businesses across the region.”
State leaders: workforce solutions that meet real demand
Ohio’s workforce future depends on career pathways that are aligned to industry and accessible to working adults.
“Ohio’s economy depends on skilled workers—and that includes the CDL drivers who keep supply chains moving,” said Joe Miller, Ohio House of Representatives, District 53. “This program provides a direct pathway to a high-demand credential and supports workforce readiness right here in Lorain County.”
“Workforce development is one of the smartest investments we can make,” said Nathan Manning, Ohio State Senator, discussing LCJVS’s CDL program. “This training connects adults to meaningful careers while supporting the needs of Ohio employers.”
Ready to get started?
If you’re ready to pursue a career in transportation and logistics, the LCJVS Adult Career Center CDL program can help you take the next step.
✅ Approved CDL program
✅ Adults 18+
✅ 5–7 weeks
✅ $6,000
To learn more about enrollment and upcoming start dates:
📞 (440) 774-1065 | Email: accinfo@lcjvs.net | Tina Hayslett, thayslett@lcjvs.net
🌐 Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center - Automotive & Transportation
📍 Program Onboarding: Course Schedule by Program (Register for Career Night)