The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently announced around $3.5 million with the goal of increasing Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training programs. This program is a component of a larger endeavor to improve the country’s transportation infrastructure and alleviate the alleged “truck driver shortage”.

Many companies argue that there is still a lack of competent truck drivers, disrupting supply chains and adding to delivery delays of commodities. The Department of Transportation (DOT) hopes to improve the effectiveness and dependability of freight transportation nationwide by increasing the number of qualified drivers joining the workforce through the support of CDL training programs.

A wide range of institutions, including community colleges, vocational training centers, and nonprofits devoted to workforce development, will receive the grants. These organizations will utilize the money to improve their CDL training courses, buy equipment they need, and provide potential students with financial aid or scholarships. More economical and easier access to CDL training is the aim, especially for underrepresented groups in the trucking business.

Organizations must fulfill a number of requirements in order to be eligible for the funding. They must provide evidence of their cooperation with industry partners and a detailed strategy outlining how the cash will be used to enhance their CDL training programs. They also need to describe how their programs will help address the alleged labor crisis and increase the number of certified truck drivers. Programs that assist veterans and people from underprivileged communities are also prioritized, which is in line with the DOT’s goal of encouraging “diversity and inclusion” in the trucking sector.

With this money, the DOT is reacting to industry concerns about the labor pool.