Work Based Learning

This spring, students in Hamilton Community Schools’ Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program completed their training and testing through a unique partnership with FCG Truck Driving School — giving students the opportunity to earn their CDL while still in high school. The program, now in its third year, continues to stand out as one of the only high school CDL programs in the entire country.

A CDL can open the door to far more than just semi-truck driving careers. Industries including construction, landscaping, heavy equipment operation, agriculture, excavation, public works, utility services, delivery transportation, and mechanics all rely on workers with commercial driving certifications. Many careers involving dump trucks, gravel trains, concrete mixers, snow plows, buses, tow trucks, and other heavy-duty vehicles require a CDL.

For students like Jax Wedeven, the program represented an opportunity they simply couldn’t pass up.

“This is a great opportunity. I want to take advantage of it because not many people get this opportunity to get their CDL through school,” said Wedeven.

Students explained that beyond earning a certification, the experience has helped open doors for future careers in transportation, mechanics, and skilled trades.

“I want to get a job actually into trucking,” said senior Weston Mulder. “This is going to help because I can start off before I turn 21 and gain a large sum of experience, especially doing local trucking.”

Another student shared how the program connects directly to their current work experience.

“I work in a mechanic shop for semi-trucks and other heavy equipment,” said Sam VanHuis. “Just being able to come and get my CDL was a big help in my future career path.”

Students also spoke about the value of gaining these skills now rather than waiting until after high school graduation.

“I’m really thankful for this program because otherwise I’d have to spend four weeks of my life after high school to do this program,” said Daniel Lubbers. “I feel like it’s a big opportunity for me to do it now while I’m in school so I’m not wasting time later.”

The hands-on training includes safety procedures, vehicle inspections, driving practice, and learning the responsibilities that come with operating commercial vehicles.

“I think the biggest takeaway from CDL school is a new appreciation for truck drivers on the road,” said senior Michael Klomparens. “One thing that was eye-opening was all the inspections that we had to learn.”

The program also reflects Hamilton Community Schools’ broader commitment to preparing students for life after graduation through career-focused learning opportunities.

“Programs like the CDL class and co-op and all the other cool programs we have shows that Hamilton cares about all their students,” Wedeven added. “Not just school, but they care about the real world too.”

Students made sure to recognize the local donors, community support, Hamilton staff, and FCG Truck Driving School instructors who helped make the program possible.

“I’d like to thank the donors especially for helping out so much and our school for setting up the whole program, as well as FCG for helping out,” said Mulder. “I’m very thankful for this opportunity.”

Instructors involved with the program say Hamilton Community Schools continues to lead the way in creating innovative career opportunities for students.

“It’s very unique,” Bill Baareman, president of FCG Truck Driving School added. “A lot of districts would love to do something like this, but the Hamilton staff and leadership clearly has it figured out.”