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1900 8th Avenue NW
Austin, MN 55912
vpaa@riverland.edu
Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Truck Driving

Degree Type: Certificate (CERT)
Location: Austin
Program Starts: Monthly, One Semester Course Plan
Total Credits: 22
Course Plan: One Semester
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Would you like to shift your career into high gear?

Picture yourself on the open road in control of a big rig. Our top-rated Truck Driving program can put you in the drivers' seat. This 16-week Riverland program has a reputation of providing "first-rate" hands-on and classroom training for careers in the transportation industry. The winning combination of our highly-qualified instructors and small class sizes mean you get plenty of one-on-one attention while learning all the required operating techniques, procedures and regulations. Learn defensive driving, safety and proper operating techniques without having to pay high costs of a for-profit driving school. Riverland students gain practical experience by driving in city and rural situations as part of course requirements. This includes driving conventional tractors and pulling loaded and empty vans and flatbed trailers. The appropriate class of license will be issued to each individual upon completion. Students also develop skills and experience during paid internships with area motor carriers who become prospective employers.


Employment Outlook

Good drivers are in demand and our students gain valuable experience during paid internships that often lead to real jobs. Few occupations offer more opportunity after such a short training period. Trucking is one of the largest industries in America today, employing short and long haul drivers. Minnesota trucking organizations report a definite driver shortage and truck driving is one of the top 20 occupations with the largest projected employment growth in the state. Long distance truck drivers can expect an average first year salary between $30,000 and $35,000 and over $40,000 the second year.

Good jobs are also available in safety supervision, dispatching, and management. Nearly one in 10 drivers is self-employed and operates independently or leases their services to a trucking company. Many companies offer increased benefits and pay to keep good drivers. Modern, well-equipped trucks with options like air conditioning, air-ride suspension, air-ride cabs, and satellite communications are the standard in driver convenience and comfort. Trucking industry wages are well above the national average and rewarding placement opportunities await Riverland graduates.
Program Fees
Number of Credits:
22
$265.00
Estimated Total Tuition Cost:
$5,830.00
$75
$150 DOT Drug Screen, DOT Physical
Faculty & Advisors
Nolan McConnell 433-0608 nolan.mcconnell@riverland.edu
Terry Bue 433-0613 terry.bue@riverland.edu

Resource Information

Riverland Resources    
Admissions admissions@riverland.edu  
Counseling counselors.austin.river@riverland.edu  
Student Success Center  
Financial Aid  
Career Planning Links  
Iseek  
US Department of Labor  
Bureau of Labor Statistics  
Occupational Outlook Handbook

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Riverland Community College • 800-247-5039 • TDD 800-627-3529
Albert Lea Campus
2200 Riverland Drive
Albert Lea, MN 56007
507-379-3300
Austin Campus
1900 Eighth Avenue NW
Austin, MN 55912
507-433-0600
Owatonna College & University Center
965 Alexander Drive SW
Owatonna, MN 55060
507-455-5880
We are an equal opportunity educator and employer.
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