Training program for truck drivers aims to help Bayview residents to gain jobs

By Christina Hilfiker

As Michael Leslie climbs behind the wheel of the truck-driving simulator for the first time, instructor Frank Duncan says, “Don’t forget your seatbelt—we promote safety around here.”

Leslie and another student are learning how to handle an 18-wheeler truck and are taking part in Goodwill’s Hope Bayview Truck Driving Academy. The program is part of the non-profit organization’s goal to employ those who face significant challenges to employment within the Bayview community

As Duncan instructs Leslie to coax the machine into third gear, the simulator gives a loud grumble.

“It’s harder than it looks,” Leslie said, adding that the hands-on training he receives from Goodwill means he will be able to gain the skills to support his family.” (continued)

Complete with manual gears, emergency brake and a 180 degree angel wide screen, the simulator is a $130,000 state of the art device designed to teach those who are seeking a professional truck driving job. It allows students to experience all kinds of weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow and tire blow outs.

Although it looks like something you may find at a video arcade, it’s actually a first step for many towards shifting the work force training from entry-level jobs to career path employment that will create job opportunities beyond entry level positions.

Tania Alexander, the programs director and co-founder partnered with Goodwill in May 2004 when she and her husband were members of the faith based organization, True Hope Church of God and Christ. She said they worked with Goodwill on a volunteer basis for a year “hammering out the details of the academy.”

She said she conducted community outreach in the Bayview, Vistacion Valley, and Western Addition and conducted group one-on-one orientation meetings with prospective candidates. She also designed the candidate criteria and administers the assessment tests, and interviews and manages caseloads.

“The BHTA is both special and important because it allows these individuals, many of which are from the Bayview who have past criminal histories and/or substance abuse challenges develop a sense of pride, a sense of self worth, while at the same time, it allows them the opportunity to earn a living wage legally and to provide for their families.”

James Cureaux, 33 a former tow truck dispatcher and father of two was one of the programs first trainees and is now an instructor. He said the program is great for those who need to change their lives around.

“For me, this program has kept me focused,” he said.

After completing 20 hours of simulator training as well as 28 hours driving a real truck, graduates of the academy can expect to receive their Class A commercial driver’s license which allows them to become employable. At least three students have gone on to purchase their own vehicles and are now owners or operators, in other words, self-employed.

“This program is the best thing to happen since sliced bread,” Alexander said. “At Goodwill, we are very much committed to this community.”

In order to be considered a candidate for the intense eight week program, you must meet specific criteria such as;
-Be at least 21 years old
-Understand conversational English
-Have a valid driver’s license and Social Security card
-Commit to attend class at least five days per week for four hours a day

Alexander said it is also important for candidates not to have too many points on their driving record. Those convicted of drug trafficking and auto theft are typically not admitted and all candidates must pass a pre-admission drug test as well as a standard 7th grade level math and reading test.

“This program really drives home for me because I grew up in this area and my heart goes out to these guys,” Alexander said.

It costs approximately $4,000 per student to keep the program running and they need donations to keep it alive. Some donations to acquire the simulator came from San Francisco Environmental Justice Department, The Walter and Evelyn Haas Jr. Foundation, and Wells Fargo Bank. The rest of the money came from Goodwill which they matched, she said.

“My vision is to create a transportation academy and to help people get jobs driving passenger busses, shuttle buses, and limousines and the benefits are so great,” Alexander said.