Trucking instructor offering free CDL training to those experiencing homelessness

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC/Gray News) - A Minnesota trucking instructor is offering training for people experiencing homelessness.

Tom Gilliam is the owner of CMV Tutor LLC. His program caters to people with kids, and those working or going to school who may not have the extra time.

He said his training courses are also open free of charge to those who may be homeless.

According to Gilliam, he wants to help people land a job in the trucking industry if they are interested.

Gilliam said the courses are focused on manual transmissions and getting those who complete the program a job driving commercial trucks.

The longtime instructor said he wants to give back to the community in hopes of changing people’s lives.

“Some of my previous students when they got the CDL were so excited,” he said. “It changed their lives. They’ve got a new course in life.”

Gillman’s courses are available at three locations in Minnesota and one in Wisconsin.

Free courses are being offered to applicants who have a reference from a program counselor or homeless shelter.

Gilliam said people in lower-income households can also go through unemployment services for the option to enroll in free courses.