GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Wayne Community College celebrated the graduation of seven students from its 17th evening Truck Driver Training program class in a ceremony that highlighted the critical role these new drivers will play in supporting the nation’s economy.
The graduates successfully completed rigorous written and behind-the-wheel examinations, demonstrating the skills and knowledge necessary to safely operate commercial vehicles. Each graduate earned a Class A Commercial Driver’s License, DOT 380 certificate, and WCC Workforce Continuing Education certificate.
Program Prepares Students for Vital Economic Role
WCC Vice President of Workforce Continuing Education Services and Community Engagement Renita Dawson praised the graduates for their commitment to entering a high-demand field essential to economic stability.
“You are not just graduating from a training program. You are stepping into a vital role that supports industries, communities, and families nationwide,” Dawson told the graduates during the ceremony.
Graduates Reflect on Shared Journey
Two graduates, Daniel Curtis and Andrae Smith, delivered reflections on behalf of their class, emphasizing the bonds formed during their training and their optimism for the future.
Curtis highlighted the collaborative spirit that helped the cohort succeed. “We shared laughs, struggles, and success,” he said. “Now we’re heading in different directions, but we’re all aiming for the same thing: a solid career, a safe journey, and a better future.”
Smith encouraged his fellow graduates to maintain their determination as they begin their careers. “If we keep thinking ahead, staying sharp, and carrying ourselves with the same grit that got us through this program, we’ll be more than safe drivers. We’ll become unstoppable,” he shared.
Safety Commitment Central to Training
Lead instructor Christopher Cobb emphasized the paramount importance of safety in the trucking profession, leading graduates in a traditional truck driving oath committing to professionalism, responsibility, and safety.
“In the trucking industry, safety is more than just a requirement. It’s a promise—a promise to operate with care, to respect the responsibilities that come with such a powerful machine, and to honor the trust that the public places in us every day,” Cobb said.
Academic Excellence Recognized
Curtis and Travis Horne received special recognition as the graduates with the highest grade point average in the class.
Class of 2024 Graduates
The seven graduates, listed by city of residence, are:
Albertson: Ivan Y. Ramirez
Dudley: Daniel H. Curtis
Goldsboro: Cynthia T. Garcia-Lopez, Travis K. Horne, Ricardo Lopez
Mount Olive: Ephrayim Pierre
Pikeville: Andrae J. Smith
Strong Career Prospects Await
Program graduates can expect to earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually in their first year with established companies. Employment opportunities are available locally, regionally, and nationally across various industries, governmental agencies, and through self-employment.
Next Program Session
The program’s next course is scheduled to run from September 2 through December 18. Classes will be held Tuesday through Thursday from 6-10 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
Enrollment requirements and program details are available at https://www.waynecc.edu/truck. For more information about the Truck Driver Training program, contact WCC Workforce and Community Service Programs Coordinator Lisa Newkirk at 919-739-6931 or [email protected].
