The CDL School & Troops Into Transportation: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Established in 1963, The CDL School is a full-service truck driving school headquartered in Miami, Florida. The institution specializes in providing comprehensive training programs for individuals seeking to obtain their Commercial Driver's License (CDL). In 2012, The CDL School launched the Troops Into Transportation program, a national SkillBridge initiative aimed at assisting military personnel, veterans, spouses, and dependents in transitioning to careers in the transportation sector.

Mission and Vision

The mission of The CDL School is to deliver high-quality, hands-on training that equips students with the skills necessary for successful careers in the trucking industry. The vision is to bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment by offering specialized training programs that facilitate a seamless transition into the workforce.

Industry Significance

The CDL School plays a pivotal role in addressing the nationwide shortage of qualified truck drivers. By providing targeted training and job placement support, the institution contributes to the stability and growth of the transportation industry. The Troops Into Transportation program, in particular, has been instrumental in integrating veterans into the civilian workforce, thereby enhancing the industry's diversity and expertise.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Comprehensive Training Programs: Offer a range of training options, including Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) and Class A and B behind-the-wheel courses, to cater to diverse student needs.

Veteran Integration: Facilitate the transition of military personnel into civilian trucking careers through the Troops Into Transportation program.

Job Placement Support: Provide lifetime job placement assistance to graduates, leveraging partnerships with numerous carriers nationwide.

Areas of Specialization

Military Transition Programs: Tailored training and support for veterans and active-duty military members seeking careers in transportation.

Fleet Training Solutions: Customized training programs for motor carriers to enhance driver skills and ensure regulatory compliance.

Key Technologies Utilized

Online Learning Platforms: Utilization of online platforms for ELDT certification and endorsements training, enabling nationwide access to educational resources.

Simulation Training: Incorporation of advanced driving simulators to provide realistic training scenarios for students.

Primary Markets Targeted

Veterans and Military Personnel: Individuals transitioning from military service to civilian employment.

Aspiring Truck Drivers: Individuals seeking to enter the trucking industry through formal training programs.

Motor Carriers: Companies requiring trained drivers and fleet training solutions.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

In January 2019, The CDL School was acquired by TransForce Inc., a leading provider of workforce solutions to the transportation industry. This acquisition aimed to expand TransForce's service offerings to include driver education and training, thereby enhancing its comprehensive solutions for drivers and carriers.

Utilization of Capital

The acquisition by TransForce has facilitated the expansion of The CDL School's training programs, enhanced technological capabilities, and broadened its reach to a wider audience, including military personnel and veterans.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Initiatives

Troops Into Transportation Program: A national SkillBridge initiative offering job-first, GI Bill® approved training on military bases nationwide. The program supports over 2,500 veterans annually in earning their CDL and securing employment in the transportation industry.

Fleet Training Solutions: Customized training programs for motor carriers to enhance driver skills and ensure regulatory compliance.

Anticipated Milestones

Expansion of Training Locations: Plans to increase the number of training sites, particularly on military bases, to accommodate a growing number of trainees.

Enhanced Online Training Modules: Development of additional online courses to provide flexible learning options for students nationwide.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Online Learning Center: An online platform offering FMCSA approved ELDT theory and endorsements training, providing nationwide access to educational resources.

Significant Scientific Methods

Simulation Training: Use of advanced driving simulators to provide realistic training scenarios, enhancing the practical skills of students.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Albert Hanley III: President and CEO of The CDL School, leading the organization with a focus on quality training and veteran integration.

Alan Loveder: Vice President of Business Development, responsible for strategic partnerships and program expansion.

Professional Backgrounds

Albert Hanley III: With a background in vocational education and a commitment to veteran services, Albert has been instrumental in the growth and success of The CDL School.

Alan Loveder: Alan brings extensive experience in business development and has played a key role in establishing partnerships with military organizations and carriers.

Key Contributions

Albert Hanley III: Under his leadership, The CDL School has expanded its training programs and enhanced its support for transitioning military personnel.

Alan Loveder: Alan has been pivotal in developing the Troops Into Transportation program and fostering relationships with military bases and carriers.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The trucking industry faces a significant shortage of qualified drivers, with the American Trucking Association estimating a shortfall of over 100,000 drivers in the coming years. This shortage has intensified competition among training institutions to provide qualified drivers to meet industry demands.

Competitor Analysis

Roadmaster Drivers School: Offers CDL training programs across multiple locations, focusing on comprehensive driver education.

Schneider National: Provides in-house training programs for aspiring drivers, aiming to develop a skilled workforce for its operations.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Military Collaborations: The CDL School has established partnerships with various military bases to offer training programs tailored for service members transitioning to civilian careers.

Carrier Partnerships: Collaborations with numerous carriers nationwide ensure job placement opportunities for graduates.

Operational Insights

The CDL School differentiates itself through its specialized focus on military personnel and veterans, offering tailored training programs that facilitate a smooth transition into the trucking industry. Its comprehensive support services, including lifetime job placement assistance, provide a competitive edge in the market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Program Expansion: Increase the number of training locations, particularly on military bases, to accommodate a growing number of trainees.

Online Training Enhancement: Develop additional online courses to provide flexible learning options for students nationwide.

Future Business Directions

Veteran Integration: Continue to expand programs that support the integration of veterans into the civilian workforce, addressing the industry's need for skilled drivers.