GADSDEN, Ala.- Gadsden State Community College is strengthening workforce training efforts by providing Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A training and Hazardous Materials Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) at no cost to employees of companies located in Alabama. The Anniston Munitions Center has taken advantage of the opportunity through the College’s Skills for Success Innovation Program.
Several Anniston Munitions Center employees, who work at the Anniston Army Depot as a tenant organization, have completed CDL Class A training through Gadsden State. Participants also completed Hazmat ELDT theory courses through the College, with all training provided at no cost to either the employee or employer.
Interest in the program has grown following early participation. After completing the training, one employee shared the opportunity with coworkers, resulting in additional referrals within the Anniston Munitions Center. Gadsden State currently has one employee enrolled in the CDL program, with additional participants expected in upcoming classes.
In recognition of the partnership, the Anniston Munitions Center presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Darrell Horton for his outstanding service and dedication. The certificate highlighted Horton’s leadership and pivotal contributions to the Gadsden State CDL initiative, noting his efforts directly enabled five Anniston Munitions Center employees to obtain CDL licenses. The center previously recognized Shayondra Griffin of Gadsden State for exceptional administrative support.
“This partnership is a strong example of how Gadsden State is helping employers meet workforce needs while removing financial barriers for employees,” said Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College. “By offering no-cost CDL and HAZMAT training, we are supporting career advancement for workers and strengthening the regional workforce.”
The training opportunities are supported by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center. As a division of ACCS, the Innovation Center brings together community colleges, business and industry, and community partners to deliver rapid, industry-recognized, non-credit training in some of Alabama’s most in-demand career fields.
“Our partnership with Gadsden State Community College is a critical force multiplier for our mission,” said Lt. Col. Steve Wallace, commander of the Anniston Munitions Center. “This program provides our valued employees with essential, no-cost training to further their careers, which in turn directly enhances our operational readiness and safety.”
Various Anniston Munitions Center roles require a CDL with a HAZMAT endorsement to support the safe transport of materials. Following 2022 Department of Transportation changes requiring Entry-Level Driver Training, the added Theory of Driving and HAZMAT coursework increased the overall cost of obtaining a CDL. The Gadsden State CDL Initiative helps reduce those expenses, significantly lowering employees’ out-of-pocket costs while benefiting participating employers.
Gadsden State’s CDL program includes hands-on instruction and safety training designed to prepare participants for immediate entry into the transportation and logistics workforce.
For more information about workforce training opportunities at Gadsden State, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/Skills-Training.
