Delay of FMCSA Entry-Level Training Standards Doesn’t Halt MTI and DTC From Commitment to Compliance

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MTI & DTC Recognized as Fully Compliant Ahead of Pending Regulation Changes

March 10, 2020 –  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently confirmed it has delayed the implementation of entry-level training standards for new commercial drivers. Despite the unexpected delay, Midwest Technical Institute (MTI), along with its sister school, Delta Technical College (DTC), are proud to announce that as of November 2019, instructors at both schools are recognized as fully compliant to the new regulations. The driver training rule – initially scheduled to begin on February 7, 2020 – will now begin February 7, 2022.

Formally referred to as “Minimum Training Requirements for Entry-Level Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators,” the new CDL law from the FMCSA will establish new minimum training standards for certain individuals applying for a Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license. MTI and DTC fully support the FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule and are committed to upholding the quality standard set by the FMCSA in their CDL programs. Both MTI and DTC continue to provide truck driver training that takes students behind-the-wheel, onto the driving range, over-the-road, and into the classroom. Both schools have a strong commitment to prepare students for their respective state licensing exam and for entry-level employment. MTI and DTC are consistently prepared for new regulations within the trucking industry.

“The industry is not going away,” said Bobby Merckling, Director of CDL Operations and Training at MTI and DTC. “Equipment is better than ever and production of equipment is at an all-time high I feel. As technology develops, the market is moving towards drivers in the 30-40-year-old range, which is much younger than we have seen in the past.”

Each of these innovations work together to influence the continued growth of the transportation industry. CDL programs, such as the CDL Training Course and Professional Truck Driving Program offered at DTC and MTI’s Springfield, MO campus, prepare students for employment in the trucking field.

“We are very excited about the changes the FMCSA has put in place and pending new laws,” added Merckling. 

According to Merckling, the transportation industry has continued to experience positive advancements, including advanced technology, improved equipment, the growth of e-commerce and the rise of online shipping. He noted that, industry trends and technologies allow truck drivers to complete their duties in more efficient ways and maximize their efforts.

About Midwest Technical Institute

Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) offers hands-on training in a number of career fields, including mechanical trades, allied health, transportation and cosmetology to help students succeed as members of today’s rapidly-changing workforce. Midwest Technical Institute, along with its sister school, Delta Technical College, operates six campuses across the Midwest and Mississippi Delta regions. For more information, visit www.MidwestTech.edu. 

About Delta Technical College

Delta Technical College (DTC) is a year-round school providing vocational training in mechanical trades and allied health career fields where job growth is expected. Since opening its doors in 2004, Delta Tech has achieved many milestones, including receiving national accreditation for its course offerings, and expanding our programs and courses beyond the original welding program. For more information, visit DeltaTechnicalCollege.com.

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