Leave it to Western Nevada College’s ROADS program to help a student discover the “road” to a new professional career.

Through the Realizing Opportunities for the American Dream to Succeed (ROADS) program — presented by WNC and the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR) — participants have the opportunity to focus solely on their training program at WNC by removing obstacles that may prevent them from starting or completing their education. The program holistically supports students through their education in a variety of different ways (e.g., tuition and training related supplies support, mentorship, professional development opportunities, and potential employment opportunities), which empowers students to obtain academic and personal success while preparing them for in-demand employment in the local workforce.

For Anthony Wilson, the virtues of the ROADS program came to light on a visit to the JOIN office in Reno. He visited the office looking for a new trade — specifically a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) — and left with the means of reaching that goal.

“The program paid for everything. I was ready to pay partially but was informed that the ROADS program would take care of everything,” Wilson said. “Secondly, (ROADS Workforce Development Liaison) Kara Spracklin left a line of communication open at all times which was very helpful.”

The program helps students prepare for careers in manufacturing, health care, information technology, building trades and more. Students have received gas cards to help with the rising costs of driving to and from WNC. Students have also received assistance with rent and car repairs, and referrals to community and college services for food donations.

“The ROADS program provides students with additional guidance and support throughout their educational experience at WNC,” Spracklin said. “By joining the ROADS program, students connect with a dedicated team committed to their success, not only during their training program, but also as they transition into the workforce. We are invested in helping our students reach their goals and are here to support them every step of the way, from start to finish.”

Wilson made the most of the program’s goodwill and completed WNC’s CDL prep program in Fallon. Now, he’s making more money than he previously did and feeling more in control of his future with his recent employment at JW Welding.

“I was hired immediately upon graduation and completion of my X Endorsement. My job is absolutely amazing!” he said. “I wanted to earn my CDL in order to learn a new trade as well as make a livable wage.”

Spracklin said that the success stories of students who complete the ROADS program are uplifting and motivational.

“It’s been truly inspiring to see the achievements of our students during and after the program, including Anthony,” she said. “Many of them have set goals, dedicated themselves to achieving them, and have experienced success both personally and professionally.”

Some of the job possibilities for CDL licensees are light truck delivery, heavy equipment transport, city bus driver, chauffeur/limousine driver, school bus driver, beverage delivery and patient transportation services. Drivers can make short-haul deliveries or transport goods across the country.

“If you want to make a better wage and make a difference in your community or for our nation, my advice is to obtain your CDL,” Wilson said. “Be your own boss and transport the goods that keep our country running.”

Interested in becoming part of the ROADS program? Apply at wnc.edu/roads. For more information, contact Spracklin at kara.spracklin@wnc.edu.

For more information on WNC’s CDL program, phone 775-445-4210 or email conted@wnc.edu.