ROSEBURG, Ore., April 8, 2024 – Umpqua Community College has completed an extensive remodel of its Truck Driving School. The reimagined facility enhances the educational experience for aspiring commercial drivers needed to fill local jobs and provides a center for continued growth of the program.

UCC’s truck driving program offers a four-week comprehensive program that includes 160-hours of hands-on instruction. Last year, the addition of nights and weekend class options to the program resulted in 92 students obtaining their commercial driver’s license (CDL). An estimated 136 students are expected to complete the program this year, based on current trends in enrollment and completion. Improvements and additional classroom space will allow for an even greater number of students to receive their CDLs in 2025.

“This remodel will provide the environment needed for more students to obtain a CDL and fill much-needed, high-wage jobs in the community,” said Teresa Rivenes, vice president of Academic Services. “Truck driving graduates can pursue a multitude of regional career opportunities, including local delivery, over-the-road, and freight delivery for timber, steel, equipment, and home goods.”

A group that advises the college made up of industry stakeholders, saw a need for improvements to the facility and procured a $75,000 grant from the Douglas County commissioners for yard improvements and building renovations. Additional funding for the remodel project was made possible through grant funding from Douglas County and the State of Oregon as a result from federal funds received by the state under the American Rescue Plan Act Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund. Construction management provided by Umpqua Indian Development Corporation helped ensure successful completion of the project. UCC contributed $15k in additional funding.

Remodel Highlights

• Complete 1,150 square foot building remodel with added features
• Improved classroom technology and a welcoming space to learn
• Larger classroom size allows for additional students
• Additional private office for individual meetings with students and more computers
• Breakroom with new appliances allows for a gathering space
• New lighting and cabinetry installed throughout the facility
• Welcome area positioned at the front of the building for public interaction
• New exterior paint and UCC Truck School signage
• Resurfaced yard and outdoor light posts were installed for improved training and safety

A celebration of the grand reopening will take place at the Truck Driving School on May 2, 2024, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. and include a dedication ceremony from the Umpqua Indian Development Corporation. The address for the UCC Truck Driving School is located at 6482 Dole Rd., Myrtle Creek (exit 113 from I-5).