Graduates Driving Workforce in Bastrop County

Estimates indicate a shortage of approximately 60,000 truck drivers in the U.S. in 2024. Obtaining a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) to drive a truck, bus, trailer or vehicle carrying hazardous materials is critical to reducing that need. In Bastrop County, TX, several organizations are active in empowering residents to get the training and skills needed for high-demand careers, whether through getting that CDL certification, a GED or many other options. As a result, local employers currently having a difficult time finding enough drivers can have a more robust workforce to recruit from.

SWTC is driving force behind CDL training

The Smithville Workforce Training Center (SWTC) connects jobseekers to industry-based credentialed courses and assists in job placement. The Commercial Driver License (CDL) Program is a vibrant example, with five students graduating from its CDL Class #10 this past summer. SWTC plans to hold at least four or five more classes over the next six months to meet its goal of training over 140 drivers for existing wage jobs. To date, the organization has placed 72 drivers in the CDL training program, and 53 have already completed it.

According to Janice Bruno, SWTC Executive Director, “The journey to employment for students taking the CDL training course presents many challenges along the way,” but she notes the students who have recently graduated “have preserved and are here (at the graduation ceremony) with their families and friends to celebrate their successes.”

Students graduating from the CDL course are Federal Motor Carrier Certified and ready to take the Texas DPS Class A manual CDL driving test. 

Bruno emphasizes how extensive the accomplishment is by pointing out the criteria involved. Beyond being authorized to work in the U.S. and currently living or working in Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette or Lee County, applicants must meet CDL eligibility requirements as mandated by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), including a drug test and Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. Other requirements include:

• An intake assessment
• Comprehensive reading and mathematics test (CASAS)
• A physical
• Eight hours of Occupational Health and Safety Assessment (OSHA) coursework
• Hazardous material training
• Six weeks of the Commercial Driver’s training
• Complete a comprehensive reading and mathematics test to demonstrate competency

SWTC offers the CDL program free of charge to those who qualify, because of its strategic partnerships with the Federal Good Jobs Challenge Grant, Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area and the American Rescue Plan Act.

Access the complete list of other SWTC industry-based credential courses in healthcare, informational technology, finance, professional development and skilled trades that help connect jobseekers with career placement.

Workforce Solutions is programmed for productivity

Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA) offers a Summer Earn & Learn (SEAL) program for students with disabilities aged 14 to 22. The program provides work readiness training and paid work experience. Students receive work readiness training and connect with local employers. They learn about the employer’s industry and develop skills and work experience to prepare them for postsecondary education and the opportunity for full-time employment. The SEAL program is a partnership between the Texas Workforce Commission, WSRCA and Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services. 

In addition, WSRCA has a NextGen program tailored to support young people aged 16 to 24 who are currently not attending school and need help deciding on a career. Those who enroll in the program have access to:

• Scholarships for training, trade schools, and college
• Paid internships
• Career exploration
• Job assistance

Participants in the program gain real-time and on-the-job experience by participating in paid internships. They can earn competitive wages ranging from $10 to $15 per hour for up to eight weeks for up to 8 weeks. 

Kelly Moreno, Chief Solutions Officer for WSRCA, says, “These programs help students who might not have opportunities through traditional avenues get the skills and experience they need to find quality jobs in our area.

Community Action creates career momentum

With organizations like the Smithville Workforce Training Center (SWTC), Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area, and Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas, Bastrop County keeps growing and strengthening its qualified employment pool. Discover how you can be part of one of the fastest-growing counties in the state and the country here.