09/29/2025
Last week, Blue Ridge Community College hosted a grand opening and ribbon cutting for the new on-campus Commercial Driving Program training facilities. The space includes a nearly five-acre lot for training and testing, and a building dedicated to Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) instruction.
The crowd included local business owners and trucking company executives, partner organizations such as DMV, College employees, and others. Speakers at the event were: Chris Earhart, CDL Advisory Board Member; Delegates Chris Runion and Tony Wilt; BRCC College Board Chair, Cathleen Welsh; BRCC CDL Program Director, Jim Butler; and BRCC President, Dr. John Downey.
“Our commercial driving, heavy equipment operator, and fork lift training programs are vital for the growth of the regional economy,” said Dr. Downey. He added, “BRCC transportation and logistics graduates ensure that products get their destination, that land can be prepared for new construction, and that goods are ready for local markets.”
Graduates of these programs were in the audience. Jim Butler shared how it was their growth and success that helps drive the program. “All of our students have a story and a dream, and that is what this new space will offer; the opportunity to achieve their goals, change their lives and the lives of their families,” he shared.
Butler also recognized CDL Training Coordinator Bill Byrd and several instructors. “For us to be able to continue this work we do here on campus with these accommodations is truly an honor,” Butler explained.