Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College is expanding its workforce training partnership with the Anniston Munitions Center, providing Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A training and Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) at no cost to eligible employees through its Skills for Success Innovation Program.
Several Anniston Munitions Center employees, who work at the Anniston Army Depot as a tenant organization, have completed CDL Class A training through Gadsden State. Participants also completed HAZMAT ELDT theory coursework through the College. According to officials, the training was provided at no cost to either the employee or the employer.
Interest in the program has grown following initial participation. After completing the training, one employee shared details of the opportunity with colleagues, leading to additional referrals within the Anniston Munitions Center. Gadsden State currently has one Anniston Munitions Center employee enrolled in the CDL program, with plans for more participants in upcoming classes.
In recognition of the partnership, the Anniston Munitions Center presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Darrell Horton, acknowledging his service and contributions to the initiative. The certificate cited Horton’s leadership in supporting the Gadsden State CDL program, noting that his efforts enabled five Anniston Munitions Center employees to obtain CDL licenses. The Center also previously recognized Shayondra Griffin of Gadsden State for her administrative support.
Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College, said the collaboration reflects the College’s ongoing efforts to meet employer workforce needs while reducing financial barriers for employees.
“This partnership is a strong example of how Gadsden State is helping employers meet workforce needs while removing financial barriers for employees,” Smith said. “By offering no-cost CDL and HAZMAT training, we are supporting career advancement for workers and strengthening the regional workforce.”
The training opportunities are supported by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center. As a division of ACCS, the Innovation Center works with Alabama’s community colleges, business and industry leaders, and community partners to provide rapid, industry-recognized, non-credit training in high-demand career fields.
Lt. Col. Steve Wallace, commander of the Anniston Munitions Center, said the partnership supports both employee development and operational readiness.
“Our partnership with Gadsden State Community College is a critical force multiplier for our mission. This program provides our valued employees with essential, no-cost training to further their careers, which in turn directly enhances our operational readiness and safety. By equipping our team with the necessary CDL and HAZMAT certifications, Gadsden State is making a direct and meaningful investment in the Anniston Munitions Center and the security of our nation’s warfighters,” Wallace said.
Certain roles within the Anniston Munitions Center require a CDL with a HAZMAT endorsement to facilitate the safe transportation of materials. Following 2022 Department of Transportation changes requiring Entry-Level Driver Training, additional Theory of Driving and HAZMAT coursework increased the cost of obtaining a CDL. College officials said the Gadsden State initiative offers a lower overall cost compared to many external training options and significantly reduces employees’ out-of-pocket expenses.
Gadsden State’s CDL program includes hands-on instruction and safety training designed to prepare participants for entry into transportation and logistics roles.
More information about workforce training opportunities is available through Gadsden State’s Skills for Success Innovation Program.
