Lakeshore Technical College Awarded $24,994 Commercial Driver Training Grant to Expand CDL Training in Manitowoc County

Lakeshore College has been awarded $24,994 through the State of Wisconsin’s Commercial Driver Training Grant program to provide Class A and B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) theory and behind-the-wheel training for 12 individuals at half the cost. This funding will support workforce development by expanding access to high-quality CDL training in the Lakeshore district and helping more residents move into in-demand transportation careers.

The grant funding is part of a $250,000 investment benefiting nine businesses and organizations in eight Wisconsin counties announced by Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) through the Commercial Driver Training Grant program Feb. 24. These grants help organizations prepare trainees for careers as truck drivers, school bus drivers, delivery drivers, and other CDL-required roles, addressing critical workforce needs across the state.

Lakeshore College’s CDL training is offered through its Workforce Solutions program—a flexible and employer-driven training pathway that helps individuals earn the required skills and credentials to safely operate commercial motor vehicles. Training includes online, self-paced CDL theory coursework as well as customized behind-the-wheel instruction at an employer’s location to meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements. Completion of the program can take as little as six weeks, depending on scheduling and trainee progress.

“We are pleased to receive this grant funding, which further enhances our efforts to support local employers and trainees seeking CDL credentials and employment opportunities in the transportation sector,” said Lucas Dulmes, associate dean of economic development for Lakeshore College.

The Commercial Driver Training Grant program, administered by DWD’s Office of Skills Development, supports local workforce solutions that help meet employer demand for skilled drivers. Currently, there are hundreds of CDL-required job postings across Wisconsin, with thousands posted annually—underscoring the importance of expanding CDL training access statewide.

This recent funding builds on the state’s 2025-27 Biennial Budget, which allocated $500,000 for CDL training grants and extended the program through June 30, 2027. Award amounts range from $10,000 to $30,000 and can reimburse up to 50 % of training costs per trainee (or $3,000, whichever is less).

For more information on CDL training at Lakeshore Technical College—including enrollment steps and contact details—visit lakeshore.edu/cdl or email workforce.solutions@lakeshore.edu.