A partnership between Central Alabama Water and Bevill State Community College offers an extra lane of expertise for our employees.
A partnership between Central Alabama Water (CAW) and Bevill State Community College is offering an extra lane of expertise for some of our employees. Bevill State offers a Commercial Driver’s License training program that helps employees get their license. The four-week course allows employees to study, train and take the CDL test to help them gain an advantage in their careers.
Five CAW employees recently took the chance with this program to hopefully drive themselves to a brighter future.
George Chapman, Dwight Copelin, Darrion Sistrunk, Daryl Straate and Walter Washington all passed the CDL training program, adding to their career development.
“What made me want to get my CDL was to further my future, I actually have a passion for driving as well,” said Copelin a Valve Utility Worker for the CAW. The motivation comes from seeing family members get their CDL and Copelin that it was fitting that he should get his too. “My two brothers, my uncle and actually my father has a CDL as well and that’s the inspiration that kick started me to get my CDL as well.”
The relationship with Bevill State has proven to be a fruitful one. Bob Cowens, an instructor for the Bevill State Truck Driver Training Program, said each student gets out what they put in to preparing for the CDL test. Cowens led the program and makes sure that every student gets all they need to prepare them to pass the program.
“I enjoy the work; I enjoy the students,” said Cowens. “Everybody putting in the effort to see them graduate and get their certificates and go back to work and do what they can here to train for.”
Watching the employees go thru driving exercises was Jeremy Ervin, Workforce Development Administrator for CAW. Ervin has witnessed a lot of employees accelerate in this program and is happy employees are willing to go the extra mile forward in their careers.
“My life’s work depends on employees who are moving forward in the organization.” Ervin said.
With the five employees earning their certificates, that pushes the total number to 35 CAW employees that are now CDL certified. All those employees passed the training program through the partnership with Bevill State Community College.
Join the Central Alabama Water team
Central Alabama Water’s team members work around-the-clock to provide exceptional-quality drinking water for customers. We’re seeking talented, driven individuals who want meaningful work and the chance to make an impact on the community we serve. Join a diverse, high-performing team where you can build a career. Visit https://caw-al.gov/careers/ to explore current opportunities.
