After numerous hours of behind-the-wheel training, plus courses that developed English and math skills, 17 students graduated from a grant-funded session of Minnesota State College - Southeast Technical's Truck Driving program Thursday.
                     
The special session evolved from a partnership between Southeast Technical, the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Winona Workforce Center. In addition to being honored during a graduation luncheon, students were also invited to a career fair with area employers who have truck driver openings.
                   
The 9 week program, funded by a grant from MnDOT, provided no-cost Commercial Driver's License training for women, minorities and socially- and economically-disadvantaged individuals in Winona and surrounding communities.
                  
With two major bridge projects scheduled to begin construction in the next few years, MnDOT felt that Southeast Technical's Truck Driving program, which is known for its top-notch instructors and state-of-the-art facilities, was a good fit and location for training local workers.