Atlantic Canada trucking schools focus on instructor standards and internships

The demand for qualified truck drivers is surging across Canada, and the training of these drivers starts with the instructors who teach them. As the trucking industry evolves, so does the need for experienced and well-trained instructors who can effectively prepare new drivers for the road. In Atlantic Canada, representatives from various trucking schools are emphasizing the importance of instructor standards and ongoing education to ensure that future drivers are well-equipped for their careers.

During a recent conference held by the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association in Halifax, discussions highlighted the current state of commercial driver education. Industry experts, such as Jeremy Nichols from Commercial Safety College in Masstown, Nova Scotia, pointed out significant gaps in instructor qualifications that lead to inconsistencies in training. This inconsistency can have direct repercussions on the quality of drivers entering the workforce.

The importance of qualified instructors in trucking schools

The quality of instruction is critical to producing competent truck drivers. Nichols noted that while instructors must have five years of driving experience and register with the Department of Advanced Education, there are few safeguards to prevent unqualified individuals from teaching. In some cases, instructors have received minimal training before being placed in charge of classes, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of the training they provide.

To combat this issue, some schools have implemented rigorous training programs for their instructors. For instance, at Commercial Safety College, new instructors spend months shadowing experienced teachers before they are allowed to lead classes independently. This approach ensures that they not only master the technical skills required for driving but also develop teaching methodologies that cater to various learning styles.

Feedback and continuous improvement in instructor performance

Another step towards ensuring high training standards is obtaining feedback from students. Stephan Paillant from Trans Canada College in Moncton explained that his institution evaluates instructor performance through student surveys. This feedback is crucial as it helps identify areas for improvement, allowing instructors to receive further training tailored to their needs.

• Instructors undergo learning-style courses to better adapt to different students.
• They receive training on how to handle situations where trainees may not be fit to drive.
• The emphasis is on instilling safe driving habits from the very beginning.

This cycle of feedback and training not only enhances the quality of instruction but also ensures that safety remains a top priority throughout the training process.

Evaluating and enhancing instructor qualifications

In Prince Edward Island, the evaluation of new instructors takes a collaborative approach. Alvin Smith from ASTA Safety Consulting & Training noted that new instructors must co-teach full Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) programs. They are assessed in both classroom and practical driving settings by provincial highway safety examiners, ensuring that they can effectively teach the curriculum while also demonstrating their driving capabilities.

This system not only helps maintain high teaching standards but also fosters a culture of ongoing education and communication among instructors. Panelists at the conference agreed that the quality of instruction has a direct impact on how well students perform during their internships. Close collaboration between schools and carriers can enhance the training experience and lead to better outcomes for graduates.

Simplifying the onboarding process for new drivers

Effective communication between trucking schools and employers can significantly streamline the onboarding process for new drivers. Paillant pointed out that when carriers are provided with detailed performance data and instructor notes, they can make better hiring decisions. This informed approach leads to smoother transitions into the workforce and improves overall insurance outcomes.

However, there is a notable disparity in onboarding practices between larger and smaller fleets. While larger companies often have structured onboarding programs, smaller carriers may mistakenly believe that MELT certification is sufficient for insurability. This misconception can lead to difficulties if proper finishing programs and supervision for new drivers are not established.

The shift from traditional training to MELT programs

Traditionally, Nova Scotia has maintained a 12-week training standard, which has long been regarded as the benchmark for driver education in Atlantic Canada. However, the recent introduction of six-week MELT programs has shifted demand as more students gravitate toward the shorter, less expensive options. This trend raises concerns about the adequacy of training received in these accelerated programs.

• Shorter programs often result in less time behind the wheel.
• Students may not develop essential safety habits needed for long-term success.
• Employers generally prefer graduates from longer training formats due to their more comprehensive preparation.

Nichols emphasized that most carriers still favor graduates from the 12-week model, as these students often come with internship experience and a better understanding of the industry's expectations. Commercial Safety College collaborates with multiple fleets to provide students with on-the-job placements, which enhances the overall training experience.

Addressing the lack of uniformity in training standards

The conversation also touched on the discrepancies in training standards across provinces. Despite plans for Nova Scotia to adopt MELT in 2026, significant inconsistencies remain within the Atlantic region. For example, P.E.I. has already implemented MELT, while New Brunswick operates under lower minimum training requirements. This disparity creates confusion among employers and students comparing training programs across provincial lines.

Many carriers in New Brunswick operate in multiple provinces, including Quebec and Ontario, making inconsistent training standards a complex challenge. The need for regional alignment is evident, but experts caution against lowering standards in pursuit of uniformity. Nichols defended the 12-week model as a "gold standard" that should be preserved, as it consistently produces safer drivers and fosters stronger partnerships with fleets.

Conclusion

The trucking industry in Atlantic Canada faces a critical need for qualified instructors and standardized training programs. By emphasizing ongoing education and collaboration between schools and carriers, the region can ensure that new drivers are adequately prepared for their roles on the road. With the right focus on instructor quality and student outcomes, the future of truck driving education in Canada looks promising.

For those interested in learning more about becoming a truck driver in Canada, here’s a helpful video that outlines the essential steps and considerations:

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