ODOT highlights in-house CDL training, third-party examiners to reduce costs and speed hires

Taylor Henderson and agency staff briefed the commission on a multi-year initiative to provide Commercial Driver's License (CDL) instruction and third-party examinations within ODOT maintenance yards.

Henderson said the program was modeled in part on work the department observed in Colorado and developed through collaboration with Service Oklahoma. Under the program, each ODOT district schedules instructor-led training, on-the-job driving practice and in-house testing to help new employees obtain CDLs during their probationary period. The department said the approach produces cost savings and efficiencies by avoiding outside test scheduling delays.

The department identified Roger Scribe as head of the third-party examination program and named two examiners, Stacy Kitchens and Mike Smith, who travel to districts to perform "train-the-trainer" duties and administer tests. Henderson said the program requires instructors to perform numerous qualifying tests each year to maintain certification; the department planned to present coins to instructors and take recognition photos after the meeting.

Henderson also referenced changes from the Federal Motor Carrier (rules) about two years ago that imposed new training or testing requirements on CDL holders; the department said it adapted its approach to comply while reducing redundant steps.

No formal commission action was requested; the item was a recognition and program update.