Oakton’s CDL Open House Showcases a Fast Track to High-Paying, In-Demand Trucking Careers

Leaders from Oakton College, the City of Des Plaines and 160 Driving Academy joined students and community members on Oct. 16 to celebrate the one-year anniversary of bringing CDL Training to Oakton’s Des Plaines campus.

The event highlighted hands-on training and career opportunities for aspiring commercial drivers

Des Plaines, Ill. (Oct. 21, 2024) – Oakton College and 160 Driving Academy celebrated the one-year anniversary of bringing Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training to Oakton’s Des Plaines campus with an Open House on Oct. 16. The event offered community leaders and prospective students an up-close look at the four-week training program that prepares students for high-paying, in-demand trucking careers.

Since partnering with 160 Driving Academy and bringing the program to the Des Plaines campus in October of 2023, 124 students have enrolled and 87 have successfully earned their CDL licenses. Employed graduates now collectively earn over $2.7 million annually.

“Oakton College’s CDL program is already yielding impressive outcomes,” said Jesse Ivory, Ed.D., assistant vice president of Workforce Innovation and College Partnership at Oakton College. “This program not only meets local employer needs but also offers students a direct path to stable and rewarding careers.”

Attendees toured Oakton’s cutting-edge CDL training facilities, engaged in hands-on big rig demonstrations, and connected with instructors, as well as current and former students. Key program benefits showcased during the event include:

  • Accelerated Training: Students can earn their CDL in just four weeks, with new classes starting every Monday.
  • Hands-On Learning: Extensive on-the-road training prepares students for real-world success in the trucking industry.
  • High Job Demand: With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting over 240,000 annual job openings for truck drivers through 2032, Oakton graduates are well-positioned to meet the industry's growing needs.
  • Strong Earning Potential: Graduates typically earn between $35,000 and $75,000 annually, with an average hourly wage of $26.80.
  • Employer Partnerships: Oakton’s connections with local employers like DOT Transportation, Pace, Schneider Trucking, the Village of Skokie and Amazon offer students direct access to job opportunities.
  • Financial Support: Program participants have access to tuition assistance and scholarships, making the pathway to a CDL license more accessible and affordable.

The program's success is also reflected in its diverse enrollment. Women represent 10% of the student body in a male-dominated industry, demonstrating Oakton’s commitment to building just and thriving communities. 

“The partnership between 160 Driving Academy and Oakton College has truly transformed many lives,” said Jennifer Christopher-Sule, business development specialist at 160 Driving Academy Des Plaines. “It’s been an incredible privilege to witness these changes firsthand. Being part of this journey feels like my true purpose, and I’m honored to contribute to a mission that makes such a meaningful impact in our community.”

For more information or to enroll in an upcoming CDL Training class, visit Oakton’s website.