WDTC pilot training program is underway with the first cohort of eight students hitting the books
The first cohort of students in the Women Driving Transport Careers (WDTC) pilot training program has hit the books this week – with eight female students beginning work to get their truck drivers’ licence.
The four-week intensive training program is offered through a joint partnership between Wodonga TAFE’s transport division DECA, Volvo Group Australia and Transport Women Australia Limited (TWAL).
Check out our story on the launch of the program here
TWAL chief executive Jacqueline Brotherton says her organisation has been inundated with company enquiries since launching the course earlier this year.
“Clearly, this initiative has struck a chord with women not just in the Wodonga area but beyond, and we are delighted to see the demand for this type of education for women,” she says.
“We look forward to seeing the first graduates later this month, and follow their career journey as they progress.”
Volvo Group provides the course with a prime mover, to be used to help them gain behind-the-wheel experience.
Speaking at the commencement of the course, Volvo Group Australia vice president of marketing and communications Teresia Fors said the company took the responsibility of being Australia’s largest truck manufacturer seriously.
“We know that our customers are hurting from a chronic drivers’ shortage all around the country, which is why we are investing in this program to get more women behind the wheel as truck drivers,” she says.
“This course gives us the opportunity to create new pathways for people to enter the industry at a time when it is critically needed.”
DECA national manager of transport Simon Macaulay says Wodonga TAFE is “very proud” to be delivering the program.
“This program will not only bring new drivers to our industry who previously may not have had the opportunity, but will offer them a pathway to a long and rewarding career,” he says.
“We have established relationships with some brilliant industry partners who have employed the students and will ensure ongoing training guided by us, and will provide mentoring to build the drivers’ experience levels. This is an amazing opportunity for all involved.”