The School District of Lee County is partnering with FleetForce Truck Driver Training to establish a CDL training program. The program will recruit and train aspiring commercial truck drivers to support Southwest Florida’s growing workforce needs.
Classes will begin at Fort Myers Technical College, with hands-on skills training provided at LeeTran headquarters. Plans are already underway to expand the program into Cape Coral Technical College, ensuring more residents across the region can access this pathway to success.
“As Florida’s demand for skilled drivers continues to grow, this program offers a direct route to high-demand, high-wage careers,” said Ed Mathews, Associate Superintendent for Adult, Career, Technical, and Alternative Education. “By connecting education directly to the transportation industry, we are preparing students not only for the workforce but also for long-term success in college and life.”
FleetForce’s CDL programs provide training for Class A, B, and C licenses, equipping students with the mandatory skills needed to earn their CDL. Florida is projected to require nearly 25 percent of the nation’s commercial trucking workforce over the next decade, making this partnership a timely investment in the region’s future.
Graduates of FleetForce programs often benefit from competitive salaries, healthcare and retirement benefits, paid vacation, and pre-hire opportunities that connect them with employers before completing training. Many alumni have advanced their careers in the trucking industry, with several becoming owner-operators earning six-figure incomes.
“The demand for skilled drivers continues to grow in Florida,” said Tra Williams, president of FleetForce Truck Driver Training. “With competitive wages, this is an incredible opportunity for Southwest Florida residents who are eager to work and find a meaningful career. Our partnership with the School District of Lee County makes this pathway possible for those interested in CDL careers, and employers seeking drivers.”
One of the School District’s priorities is expanding technical education opportunities. This new CDL training program is another step toward empowering graduates to thrive in Florida’s growing economy.