Goldsboro, N.C. — Eight students have successfully completed Wayne Community College’s Truck Driver Training evening course, earning their place in one of the nation’s most essential industries.
The graduates, who make up the 16th cohort of the program, were awarded Class A Commercial Driver’s Licenses, DOT 380 certificates, and Workforce Continuing Education credentials after passing comprehensive written and behind-the-wheel exams.
During the graduation ceremony, WCC President Patty Pfeiffer highlighted the critical role truck drivers play in sustaining the economy and everyday life.
“Without them, store shelves would be empty, hospitals would run low on supplies, and businesses may slow to a halt,” Pfeiffer said. “Everything that we rely on—our food, our fuel, our medicine—gets to us because of professional drivers.”
Graduate Cody Bechel spoke on behalf of the class, sharing how the program helped forge a shared sense of purpose among students from different walks of life. “We all quickly realized that driving a truck isn’t just a job; it’s a craft,” Bechel said. “We all showed up and gave it our all, and that’s something to be proud of.”
Christopher Cobb, lead instructor of the program, led the group in a truck driving oath, emphasizing professionalism, responsibility, and safety above all. He also recognized Bechel for achieving the highest grade point average in the class.
“You spent countless hours learning the skills, the rules, and the responsibilities that come with operating a commercial vehicle,” Cobb told the graduates. “But beyond all the technical training, there is one value that stands above the rest in this industry: safety.”
The graduating class includes:
- Goldsboro: Cody A. Bechel, Herode Bien-Aime, Emilio B. Creswell, Charod M. Higley, Demar R. Worrell
- Mount Olive: Guivenson Lolo
- Pikeville: Ruth H. McNair
- Seven Springs: Ernesto Cardenas
Graduates can expect to earn between $40,000 and $60,000 in their first year, with job opportunities available locally, regionally, and nationally across various industries and sectors.
The next evening session of WCC’s Truck Driver Training program will run from May 6 to August 6, with classes held Tuesday through Thursday evenings and Saturdays.
More information about the program and enrollment requirements can be found at waynecc.edu/truck, or by contacting Program Coordinator Lisa Newkirk at 919-739-6931 or ldnewkirk@waynecc.edu.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public institution in Goldsboro, North Carolina, serving approximately 10,000 individuals annually. With more than 150 academic and workforce programs, WCC is dedicated to developing a skilled, competitive workforce and enriching the communities it serves.
