First of Many: SCC Clinton Center graduates first CDL class, bringing opportunity home
Published on Nov 24, 2025
Somerset Community College (SCC) is proud to announce an exciting milestone: the graduation
of the first Commercial Driver's License (CDL) class at the Clinton Center, serving
the Albany community. This program represents a vital addition to the resources available
in Southern Kentucky, and SCC is excited to share this opportunity with local residents.
The CDL program is now open for enrollment, offering a fast-track course that equips students with the skills needed to embark on a rewarding career in the trucking industry. In just four weeks, graduates can find themselves on the road, aiming for annual salaries of $50,000 or more.
Local industries, including major employers like Tyson, along with other businesses in the region, create a robust demand for qualified CDL drivers, making Southern Kentucky an ideal location to begin a career in this field. The program is designed not only to meet the needs of the local job market but also to provide students with a pathway to adventure and job security.
Instructor Dustin Duncan expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “This industry offers the opportunity to travel the world while always having a job. It’s a fantastic career choice for those who enjoy the open road and the freedom it brings.”
James Jackson, 24, from Albany, expressed gratitude for the supportive environment fostered by instructor Dustin Duncan. “It’s astonishing to think how much I am walking away with from just four weeks of this course,” Jackson reflected. “I wouldn’t want to learn from anyone else. I truly believe I have gained a lifelong career in this short time.”
Jacob Hamilton, a 29-year-old single father from Cumberland County, echoed similar sentiments. He commended the direct approach of his instructors, which has bolstered his confidence. “SCC has opened the doors for me to find a local driving job that will better the lives of my son and me,” he shared. “I am so thankful I chose SCC.”
Payton Stearns, 23, from Albany, was among the first to enroll when news of the CDL program reached his community. “I had been searching for an opportunity close to home to obtain my CDL, and this program at the Clinton Center was exactly what I needed.”
For Frankie Hickman, 44, the dream of driving big rigs and exploring the open road is now within reach. “SCC is truly a college for everyone. I felt welcomed, and while the program is challenging, it prepares you for success. This opportunity could not have come at a better time for me,” he said.
Hickman emphasized the struggles many face in pursuing their CDL due to a lack of resources.
“Many people want to get their CDL but don’t have access to a truck for practice or skilled instructors to guide them. SCC has brought that opportunity to Albany,” he noted. “With the right training, you can transition from making minimum wage to earning $50,000 or more a year with some companies. This will be life-changing for me.”
As the CDL program at SCC continues to grow, it’s clear that the impact on the local community will be significant, empowering individuals to build better futures for themselves and their families.
For more information about enrollment and the CDL program, please visit Somerset Community College’s website or contact the Clinton Center directly at (606) 387-3704. Take the first step towards a new career and join us in shaping the future of the trucking industry in Southern Kentucky!
