The Road to Advancement: Hunter’s Journey to CDL Class A

Hunter had always been passionate about mechanics. However, he felt a yearning for more responsibility, more skills, and ultimately, a more lucrative salary. That’s when he decided to pursue a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A to boost his employability within his company.

On January 16, 2024, Hunter took the first step in his transformative journey by attending a WIOA orientation. This session opened his eyes to the opportunities available for skill enhancement and training, setting him on the path to achieving his goal. With renewed determination, he signed up for a training program that would teach him everything necessary to obtain his CDL Class A license.

The training was intense, filled with hands-on learning and rigorous instruction at Thumb CDL, LLC, but with the support of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program helping to cover costs of tuition, drug test fees, skills tests, and the necessary temporary permit, Hunter felt equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. 

By March 13, 2024, he finished all the necessary testing, successfully earning his CDL Class A license. The taste of achievement was sweet. This new qualification not only represented a personal accomplishment but also promised new opportunities within his workplace.

His employer appreciated his initiative and the new skills he brought to the table. As a result, he got a raise of $3.00 per hour, significantly boosting his income. As if that wasn’t enough, in February 2025, another promotion came his way, increasing his hourly wage by an additional $4.00 from the orientation date.

Reflecting on his journey, Hunter expressed, “I was able to update my skills and continue working with my current employer, unlocking more opportunities to make a higher wage. The support I received through the WIOA program was invaluable, helping me achieve my goals and take my career to the next level.”

Hunter’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and success—showcasing how a single decision to invest in oneself can lead to profound professional growth and financial stability.