ALBANY, OR  - The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hosted a press conference on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at the Knife River Training Facility in Albany, OR, to highlight how more than $140 million in FMCSA grant funding  will be used nationwide to enhance roadway safety. The grants will support CDL training to military veterans (including National Guard and Reserves) and certain family members, the advancement of technological capabilities, and state CDL programs. FMCSA was joined by partners from Linn-Benton Community College (LBCC), Walla Walla Community College, Klamath Community College, and community leaders.

A recording of the full press conference can be found on our website. 

“These grants place a priority on training individuals from rural and underserved communities. I know that will be especially important for those living in rural areas around this part of Oregon. And it will also be important in helping serve our Native American communities as well, who we know have a presence here in Oregon and across the Pacific Northwest.” 
-    Melody Drummond Hansen, Chief Counsel, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation

“It’s a special source of pride for us at LBCC that veterans are the beneficiaries of this grant, helping them to study for free and get to work quickly. Community colleges train America’s workforce – we’re the ones who respond to immediate workforce needs, and there is no greater workforce need than ensuring we have additional trained CDL-holders, especially serving veterans with not only good jobs, but good-paying jobs.”
-    Dr. Lisa Avery, President, Linn-Benton Community College

“In partnership, LBCC and the Knife River Corporation will now be able to offer outstanding training opportunities to former servicemembers and their families by removing the financial burdens of tuition. This initiative will open doors to career paths that are in high demand, providing a bright future for many.”
-    Roger Nyquist, Chairman, Linn County Board of Commissioners

“As a veteran, I whole-heartedly support this program. Federal grant programs like these have the potential to create economic growth in Albany and support the future and ongoing success and prosperity of our cherished veterans.”
-    Alex Johnson II, Mayor, City of Albany, OR

“Having the grant cover the expenses for my CDL class was definitely a big help, especially considering I am currently employed, I’ve had to take time off work for the class. Without the grant, there was no way I was going to be able to pay for the class on my own.”
-    Jasmine McClean, recent graduate, Klamath Community College CDL Training Program