ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. – A Central Alabama Community College student has earned a Class A commercial driver’s license after completing the truck driving training program, overcoming barriers related to his deafness.
Darren James was born hearing but became deaf after bacterial meningitis. He became interested in commercial driving, drawn to the open road and trucking’s role in keeping communities moving.
James said he was encouraged to pursue training after learning that two deaf friends had completed the program at Central Alabama Community College’s Alexander City campus. He also learned about the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s hearing exemption process, which has allowed deaf and hard-of-hearing drivers to qualify for interstate commercial driving since 2013.
James learned about the program through his vocational rehabilitation contact, Stacey Gray-Smith. Central Alabama Community College provided an interpreter to help him follow safety procedures, training requirements, and driving instruction.
“Earning my CDL will give me greater confidence and a great opportunity to build a better future for myself and my family,” James said.
Truck driving instructor Beasley Martin, who has 21 years of experience, used video lessons and hands-on instruction to help James develop skills. Training included navigating four-way stops, straight-line backing, offset reverse maneuvers, managing space while turning, and using mirrors.
“Accessibility is central to our mission. We work to remove barriers and provide the support every student needs to succeed,” Central Alabama Community College President Jeff Lynn said. “We are so proud of Darren’s determination and achievement.”
Central Alabama Community College’s truck driving program prepares students for Class A and Class B commercial driver’s licenses through classroom lessons, range exercises, and road instruction. The college said it remains committed to providing accessible training and accommodations for students pursuing career goals.
More information is available at cacc.edu or through the college’s Workforce Development office at (256) 378-2031.
