A new CDL-A training program in Sturgis, Michigan, is launching through Glen Oaks Community College. The short-term truck driver training program will begin in February 2026. As a result, residents across Southwest Michigan and northern Indiana will gain faster access to high-demand transportation careers.
Glen Oaks created the program in partnership with Regen Trucking School, a licensed commercial driver training provider. In addition, UKT (Automotive AC Design & Consulting, LLC) is providing property in Sturgis where students will practice driving maneuvers and vehicle control.
Together, these partners are expanding access to accelerated workforce training. Students who complete the program will earn a Commercial Driver’s License Class A (CDL-A). This license allows drivers to operate tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles used in freight transportation.
Meeting Regional Workforce Needs
Demand for professional truck drivers remains strong across the Midwest. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers are expected to fill approximately 241,000 truck driver openings each year through 2032 as drivers retire or change careers.
Because transportation supports nearly every industry, regional employers depend on CDL-A drivers to keep supply chains moving. For example, manufacturing, agriculture, construction and logistics companies across Southwest Michigan and northern Indiana rely heavily on freight transportation.
As a result, trucking continues to provide one of the fastest pathways into a skilled workforce career. Many CDL-A drivers secure employment shortly after completing training.
Short-Term Training for High-Demand Careers
The Glen Oaks CDL-A program includes 160 hours of instruction delivered in an accelerated format. Students learn vehicle inspection procedures, safety regulations and essential driving skills.
In addition, certified instructors from Regen Trucking School provide hands-on training with commercial vehicles. Students practice backing maneuvers, road driving and safety procedures that prepare them for state CDL testing.
Most students can complete the program in approximately three weeks. Therefore, graduates can move quickly from training into employment.
Local Partners Support Workforce Development
The CDL-A training site is located on property owned by UKT (Automotive AC Design & Consulting, LLC) in Sturgis. The company is led by Danila and Giuliano Ungarelli, innovators known for patented climate control technologies in the HVAC industry.
Recently, Giuliano Ungarelli received a United States patent (US 12,403,745 B2) for a new climate control system designed for recreational vehicles. The technology integrates multiple systems into a compact design that improves efficiency and performance in RV environments.
Through this partnership, the Ungarellis are helping expand workforce education opportunities in the region.
Expanding Career Pathways in Southwest Michigan
Glen Oaks Community College continues to expand training programs that connect students with regional employment opportunities. Programs like the CDL-A training initiative help residents gain valuable skills while supporting economic growth across Southwest Michigan.
Prospective students can learn more by visiting our CDL Training page or by emailing workforcedevelopment@glenoaks.edu
