MTA offers free truck driver training to 90 eligible candidates in Winnipeg

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The Manitoba Trucking Association (MTA), with the help of The Northpine Foundation, is offering free Class 1 truck driver training to 90 eligible candidates in Winnipeg.

The Road to Success: Class 1 Training Pilot Program will help candidates turn their truck driving aspirations into reality, according to an MTA news release.

To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a resident of Winnipeg.
  •  Currently receive employment and income assistance or earn less than $35,000 annually.
  •  Hold a valid Class 5 driver’s licence with driving experience in the last 24 months.
  •  Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with a Canadian passport or the ability to obtain one.
  •  Be able to pass a criminal record check.
  •  Provide proof of completion of Manitoba High School, CAEC, or an equivalent credential.
Picture of a man in front of a truck
(Photo: MTA)

The program offers fully covered training costs, with no out-of-pocket expenses for participants. Graduates will have direct access to employers eager to hire skilled drivers and gain expertise needed to thrive in a growing sector, according to the release.

Jessica Cranmer, MTA’s sector council program manager told TruckNews.com that four driving schools have been selected to provide the training.

They are Arnold Bros. Transportation Academy, First Class Training Centre, Professional Driver Training School, and United Transportation Driver Training.

Removing financial, logistical barriers

“The program is designed to remove financial and logistical barriers,” the MTA said in the release.

“Thanks to an investment from The Northpine Foundation, we’re committed to empowering individuals by providing them with the training and opportunities needed to start meaningful careers,” Cranmer said in the release.

“This program is more than just a pathway to employment — it’s a chance to change lives, meet the growing demand for truck drivers, and strengthen our community’s workforce. For employers, it’s an opportunity to invest in talent that will drive their business forward.”

Naomi Gichungu, impact director with The Northpine Foundation, added, “Northpine’s investments in Winnipeg prioritize gainful employment opportunities for people on social assistance and those who are precariously employed. We are pleased to support the trucking sector in bringing in new workforce into the industry.”

The MTA urged employers to sponsor the program that offers a valuable resource for committed, job-ready drivers who meet national occupational standards.

Candidates currently on EIA can contact Jobs on Market for their referral link and details. Trucking aspirants who earn less than $35,000 annually can contact Manitoba Jobs & Skills Development for their referral link and details.

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  • This is great! Congrats to all parties involved. Glad to see the schools selected have solid reputations in the industry. Let’s be clear this is free training to those selected that meet the criteria BUT someone is funding the training the Province or the Feds.
    I am not saying this is a bad thing.
    Kudos to all involved.

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    • This a good idea but trucking companies should be providing the funds not from taxpayers money in my opinion

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  • I don’t live in winnipeg anymore I am in labroquerie. I wish this could be extended to someone like me. I’m on eia desperately trying to get off of assistance.

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  • This program worked out great for me back in the 1990 s.
    The MTIAC Training for Class 1 driving was similarly held out of Red River College to people on Unemployment Insurance (That’s what it was called last century) who showed an interest in the transportation industry.
    A candidate would partner with a Transport Company to qualify for the 14 week course of a combination of classroom and Truck/Trailer training. Upon successful completion of course including Drug/Alcohol screening the new driver was hired by the Transport Company.

    Reply