Great Plains College offers classroom support for commercial semi-drivers

Great Plains College is prepared to help drivers obtain the new mandatory standardized training requirements for those wanting a Class 1 commercial license in Saskatchewan to drive semitrucks.

Drivers seeking a Class 1 commercial license in Saskatchewan to drive semitrucks will be required to undergo a minimum standardized 121.5 hours of training (in-classroom, in-yard and behind the wheel) focusing on priority curriculum areas including basic driving techniques, professional driving habits, vehicle inspections and air brakes.

“Starting in May, we will be delivering the 47 theory hours of inclass training that semi-drivers are now required to take as a prerequisite to obtaining their license,” explains Fritz Eckstein, region manager of Great Plains College. “This will provide options to those seeking to complete entry level training.”

The changes were announced in December by Minister Responsible for SGI, Joe Hargrave, after consultation with those in the trucking industry, training schools, additional stakeholders and other jurisdictions. Changes were the culmination of work SGI began in 2017 to improve standards for training of commercial semi drivers.

Course offerings through Great Plains College have been approved by SGI and the instructor, Bill Martens, is a certified SGI instructor with a wealth of knowledge as an experienced truck driver, trainer and licensed examiner.

“The college is equipped to deliver this important training,” says Eckstein. “Along with an experienced instructor, we have an interactive air brake computer program and an air board. We are certified though SGI, our instructor has expertise, and our facilities are equipped.”

The first Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) session is scheduled for May 21-30, 2019, at Swift Current Campus.

To register, visit greatplainscollege.ca/MELT or contact Lyla Cooper, safety training coordinator at Great Plains College, at 1-888-296-2472.