Rogue Community College (RCC) is making strides in addressing the increasing need for skilled workers in the transportation industry in Grants Pass and the broader Rogue Valley region. With its specialized programs in commercial truck driving, automotive, and diesel technologies, RCC is not only providing education but also creating opportunities for economic stability and job growth in Southern Oregon.
Enrollment in these transportation programs has surged as local businesses recognize the value of RCC’s training initiatives in meeting workforce demands. “As the need for well-trained professionals continues to rise, transportation jobs—ranging from truck drivers to mechanics—are critical in keeping goods and services flowing through the valley and beyond,” said Mike Card, president of Combined Transport. He emphasized that the programs equip students with essential skills to pursue in-demand careers, ensuring a steady supply of qualified workers for local industries.
The transportation sector is facing a significant labor shortage across the United States, including an estimated national shortfall of 78,000 truck drivers. RCC’s approach to mitigating this issue involves strong partnerships with local businesses, transportation carriers, and workforce development organizations, such as the Rogue Workforce Partnership and funding from the Good Jobs Challenge grant. These collaborations allow the college to provide hands-on learning experiences and specialized training in commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and technical disciplines.
Steve Roe, general manager of Roe Motors, highlighted the practical value of RCC’s curriculum, noting that the college’s training programs are designed to be immediately applicable to real-world jobs. “These partnerships are essential for preparing students for success in the transportation industry, while also providing local businesses with a highly skilled workforce,” Roe said.
In addition to transportation, RCC offers various programs in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The college aims to deliver career-focused education, equipping students with industry-recognized certifications, real-world experience, and the knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen professions. According to Lisa Parks, RCC’s Dean of Workforce Development, the partnerships with local businesses are pivotal to sustaining the economic health of the Rogue Valley while offering students pathways to well-paying careers in essential industries.
RCC’s strategy involves aligning its training programs with the needs of local employers, ensuring that the skills students gain are up-to-date and relevant to industry standards. This commitment not only strengthens workforce development but also contributes to the economic growth of Southern Oregon, providing a crucial boost to the region’s stability.
The college’s efforts to address the transportation labor gap come at a time when local businesses are increasingly reliant on a qualified workforce to keep up with demand. By offering hands-on, practical training, RCC aims to bridge the skills gap and help the region thrive economically.