TTSAO launches commercial driving instructor program
The Truck Training Schools Association of Ontario (TTSAO) has launched a new Government of Ontario-approved Commercial Driving Instructor Program aimed at raising instructional standards across its member schools.
The program, known as the Fleet Driver Instructor Course (FDIC), establishes a standardized framework for developing commercial driving instructors and aligns with the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC 41210) for college and vocational instructors, TTSAO said in a release.
A key feature of the program is its fully in-person delivery model. TTSAO said hands-on classroom and practical instruction are essential for developing instructional skills, decision-making abilities, and applied driving expertise.
“Effective training starts with properly trained instructors,” said Ken Adams, TTSAO chairman of the board. “Online training alone is not sufficient for this profession. In-person instruction is critical to developing the practical skills, judgment, and teaching ability required under NOC 41210. This program ensures instructors are prepared to deliver the highest standard of training to future drivers.”
The curriculum focuses on instructional techniques, student evaluation, regulatory compliance, and the real-world application of commercial driving practices. TTSAO said the program is intended to strengthen the professionalism and credibility of commercial driver instruction across Ontario.
The association said member schools will benefit from a consistent framework supporting the delivery of mandatory entry-level training (MELT) while promoting best practices in both classroom and in-vehicle instruction.
TTSAO noted the commercial driver training sector remains under increased scrutiny due to concerns about inconsistent training practices and the presence of bad actors within the industry. Rather than waiting for additional legislative requirements, the association said it is taking steps to raise standards among member schools.
“The FDIC ensures our instructors are not just licence holders, but elite educators capable of delivering the highest caliber of instruction across Ontario,” Adams said. “TTSAO’s implementation of this instructor program is a critical step toward raising standards, ensuring accountability, and restoring confidence in commercial driver training through rigorous, in-person instruction.”
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Mike, you are correct. Great assessment. Carry on, Sir…
Hmmm …just wondering how a NON-SPEAKING TFW can teach me how to drive/operate a truck?? I’m a WHITE MALE, fluent in ENGLISH born and raised in CANADA..which these guys are probably NOT!!! I’ve been driving here through all types of weather for over 30 years!!! Who are these guys, they have probably NO experience in CANADA…WHAT CAN THEY REALLY TEACH ME?? Just asking… like I’ve always said…pay me for MY EXPERIENCE…NOT my TIME..IF you want it done right and proper…I’m your man…not these guys!!!
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You are correct. However, you don’t really want that job, I can assure you of that…
Its very interesting that they would deliberately say “Government of Ontario-approved”. A legitimate organization would say: “Ministry of Transportation” approved or “Ministry of Education” approved. It doesn’t look like those key agencies approved it. The only people that would use “Government of Ontario” approved are those who don’t want you to know who approved it or they are not proud of who approved it or the only Government agencies that matter didn’t approve it..
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Correct again…
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did you see the retract press release where the course cannot be offered??? (yet).
I’m not convinced this program addresses the fundamental issue. In my view, Ontario should adopt a model similar to British Columbia, where instructors must first qualify as passenger vehicle driving instructors before moving into commercial driver training.
How can someone effectively train new truck drivers if they have never demonstrated the ability to teach new drivers in any capacity? Knowing how to drive a truck and knowing how to teach someone to drive safely are not the same thing.
If we’re serious about improving driver training standards, we should be focusing on developing experienced driver trainers first, then commercial vehicle specialists.
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Correct.
There was another release retracting that the course has not been approved and they jumped the gun.
We are still a member of TTSAO (and co founder) many years ago. Things have changed. Many have left, we will be taking a hard look at renewal…..
I encourage the author of this from Teuck News to seek out what was retracted and publish it.
Our industry deserves the facts.
This article is an advertisement, but it does not provide any information about what this actually means for existing and future instructors, what WERE the requirements for an instructor in the past and what ARE the requirements and process NOW with this program they’ve come up with. The TTSAO is very good at collecting membership fees, sweet talking insurance companies and therefore carriers in something and then layering profitable projects on top of existing problems rather than actually advocating for the industry. But there is a reason their membership has dwindled down.
So how about a deep dive article on the topic of instructors before blasting out advertisements for an organization that no one who has dealt with them respects.