ECC partners with Pace Bus on free CDL permit training, strengthening the public transportation workforce

Elgin Community College and Pace Bus are partnering to provide a free CDL Class B commercial driver's license permit course for the next generation of professional bus operators.

Pace will cover the costs of tuition, training, books, fees, and other expenses associated with the program, removing financial barriers for interested students.

On Thursday, Feb. 9, ECC is hosting a pre-hire event for job seekers to meet with Pace staff.

During the three-hour event, which begins at 6 p.m., applicants will complete a screening process which includes an application, an assessment questionnaire, and background check paperwork.

All candidates must bring a valid driver's license and a DMV or Secretary of State Motor Vehicle Report (also called Driving Record Abstracts) with a good driving record over the last five years. Candidates are responsible for the cost of the MVR, which is $12.

"Pace offers rewarding careers and a path to success for people passionate about public service," said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. "This new partnership will create a pathway to jobs for the community and strengthen the pipeline of bus operators necessary to provide the essential transportation service our region relies on."

Assessment results will be available 2-4 days after the event. At that time, candidates must complete an Illinois Department of Transportation physical and drug screening.

Pace will cover the cost of these screenings. Candidates who pass these screenings will enroll in the training course scheduled for late February at ECC's Spartan Drive Campus. Qualified candidates who complete the two-week will transition to a six-week, paid, on-the-job training with Pace.

"We understand the labor shortfalls that adversely impact our local economy and welcome the opportunity to provide classroom instruction to help people earn their CDL-B certification from the Illinois Secretary of State," said Cathy Taylor, dean of sustainability, business, and career technologies at ECC. "This partnership enables ECC to take an active role in providing education to increase the number of Pace drivers for the greater Elgin community."

For more information about the program, visit PaceBus.com/careers or elgin.edu/ce.