RED DEER, Alta. – The Alberta Motor Transport Association is urging carriers to support the next stage of a professional driver apprenticeship program run by Red Deer College.

Red Deer College and the Transportation Training and Development Association are preparing a funding request for the Professional Driver Certificate Program, which, administered by Red Deer, is a high-standard curriculum offered by qualifying driving schools.

The province, however, has asked that TT&DA show stronger carrier support for the program before committing further government funding.

TT&DA is asking Alberta carriers to endorse the program in the form of a letter or note indicating that they would be interested in hiring co-op students that complete the program.

The program will contain the same standards established in the last pilot project.

After completing the classroom and driver training to a Class One level, students will be hired under a co-op program model.

Red Deer College will assist students to find employment, where they will get valuable on-road experience with a coach-mentor in the cab.

Upon completion of all requirements and recommendation by the employer, Red Deer College will provide a graduation certificate that includes the “Professional Driver” endorsement.

Send letters by e-mail to csoper@telusplanet.net or to TT&DA, Box 1810, Blackfalds, Alberta T0M 0J0.