Barren County Area Technology Center unveils truck simulator for CDL training

GLASGOW, Ky. (WBKO) - Students at the Barren County Area Technology Center are getting their hands on a new tool designed to prepare them for careers in one of the country’s most in-demand industries.

On Friday, the school unveiled a heavy-duty truck simulator that gives students hands-on CDL training experience.

“There’s not a lot of people that are willing to take a 16-year-old, 17-year-old, or an 18-year-old. It’s like, here, let me hop in my semi. This gives them the ability,” Gray said. “And because they’re expensive equipment and it is commercial this gives an ability where a lot more students can get their hands with it.”

Training and instruction

The simulator allows students to learn manual shifting, vehicle handling, inspections and how air brake systems function.

Gray says it acts as both a driving simulator and an instructional tool for those who wish to become technicians.

“It’s really important, especially if you want to be a technician. The main reason is, is if you do any repairs or you have complaints, most of the time the complaints are, it’s going down the road. And if you’re not able to drive the vehicle or be able to put it in a situation that causes the issue, well, you’re kind of guessing,” Gray said. “So you need to be able to drive it, put it under conditions so you can properly diagnose it, and also verify your repairs.”

Even though the school year is nearly over, students who got to try out the equipment are already excited to get their hands on it again.

“I love it. The few times I’ve used it, it’s super fun. It’s going to be a great thing that I can hopefully be able to get my CDL permit off of it. And it’s just, it’s fun and all. I’m glad we finally have it,” said James Sacia, a junior at Glasgow High School.

Gray says beginning next fall, the simulator will be used by sophomores through seniors, with introductory students learning inspections and safety systems while advanced students will begin working through CDL-style driving lessons and permit preparation.

Instructors say students who earn their CDL at 18 can begin with local and in-state routes, giving them years of experience before many drivers would normally enter the industry.