Lake Land College has secured a $130,000 federal grant to provide free Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training for up to 30 U.S. military veterans, active service members, and their families. The funding, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) through a Commercial Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant, makes Lake Land College the only community college in Illinois to receive this support.

According to FMCSA Deputy Administrator Vinn White, the funding aligns with the administration’s mission to enhance roadway and commercial driver safety. “Our job is all about safety—roadway safety and ensuring the well-being of commercial motor vehicle drivers,” said White. “We’re proud to make this funding available and committed to working with the awardees to make it easier for drivers to enter and remain in the CMV industry.”

The grant covers the full cost of CDL training, including tuition, permits, background checks, and hazardous materials checks, allowing veterans and their families a no-cost entry into a high-demand field. Lake Land College’s CDL program offers classes every two weeks, with courses designed to be completed in just six weeks, providing a swift route to a career in transportation.

Lake Land College President Josh Bullock expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. “We’re thrilled to offer this opportunity to our local veterans and active service members,” he said. “We’re very grateful for their service to our country and hope they’ll seize this chance to launch rewarding careers at minimal cost.”

For more information on the CDL program, contact Transportation Training Coordinator Justin Onigkeit at 217-238-8239 or via email at jonigkeit@lakelandcollege.edu.