With legislation around truck and transport driver training set to take effect on March 15, Carlton Trail College has responded with changes to its existing training program. The College's Marketing Facilitator, Val Koroluk, outlines some of the changes in the legislation and Carlton Trail College's responses.

As far as the mandated changes, Koroluk explains, "On March 15th, drivers seeking a Class 1 commercial license in Saskatchewan will be required to undergo a minimum of 121 and a half hours of training and then pass a more rigorous Class 1 road test." She states that Carlton Trail currently offers intensive one and two-week training programs, but the College would be changing their program length and structure to meet the requirements of the new legislation. The new program will be comprised of 47 hours of in-class training, 17.5 hours of driving in the yard, and 57 hours of pavement driving. The main focus will be safety and professionalism including driving techniques, vehicles inspections, and air breaks.

Koroluk anticipates a potential rise in tuition for the training given the increased training hours, but also due to increased equipment costs and logistics expenses. When asked whether the tuition increases may have an impact on student enrollment, Koroluk was uncertain but optimistic. She speculates, "There have been a lot of people getting their training right now. As more truck drivers are needed and more people need training through the program, we'll see our numbers go up."

Carlton Trail College is currently taking inquiries about the new program.