Barstow Community College recently held a ribbon-cutting event to unveil its collaboration with the renowned 160 Driving Academy.
This partnership introduces Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training at Barstow Community College, thereby enhancing access to sought-after employment opportunities in the transportation sector for students and community members.
Barstow Community College recently held a ribbon-cutting event to unveil its collaboration with the renowned 160 Driving Academy.
The ceremony featured addresses from:
Eva Bagg, superintendent/president of Barstow Community College
Victoria Ramos, business development specialist at 160 Driving Academy
Eugene Butticci, executive director of the Barstow Chamber of Commerce
Local leaders, college faculty, and community partners also attended the event.
On-Campus Training
“At Barstow Community College, we understand the crucial role career education plays in equipping our students for the workforce,” said Bragg. “Partnering with industry leaders like 160 Driving Academy enables us to bring specialized training to our campus and pave pathways to in-demand jobs.”
The training will start with 40 hours of classroom instruction at Barstow Community College, followed by 120 hours of practical driving experience at a 160 Driving Academy facility.
This program combines theoretical and hands-on training to prepare students for the CDL exam. They will learn about safety procedures and driving regulations, alongside practicing necessary skills such as vehicle inspections and maneuvering under the supervision of experienced instructors.
Workforce Development
This initiative aligns with the California Community Colleges’ Vision 2030 plan, which focuses on creating equitable workforce development opportunities through strong industry partnerships. Vision 2030 aims to expand access to career education that meets labor market needs and benefits communities.
Barstow Community College is dedicated to building community partnerships that broaden educational and career prospects throughout the High Desert, as stated by school officials.
For over a decade, the college’s career education programs have equipped students with vital skills for high-demand industries, offering more than 15 programs including automotive technology, welding, business, and child development. The college continues to be a regional leader in hands-on career training.
“This training directly contributes to economic growth in Barstow,” said Butticci. “By enhancing access to high-demand skills and career paths, both Barstow Community College and 160 Driving Academy are working to create a robust and self-sufficient local economy.”
Bragg noted that this partnership will address local workforce needs, providing valuable opportunities for students and community members to acquire skills and improve their futures in Barstow.
The average salary for graduates of the 160 Driving Academy is around $55,990 annually, with considerable potential for growth. Locations of 160 Driving Academy span the country, including cities like San Bernardino, Oceanside, Oxnard, Bakersfield, Clovis, and Las Vegas.
For more information or to enroll, interested individuals can contact Victoria Ramos at 661-899-5380 or visit 160drivingacademy.com.
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz can be reached at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Barstow Community College launches 160 Driving Academy partnership for truckers.
