Leeward Community College will launch a new bus driver training class on Jan. 13, 2025, to help tackle the state’s shortage of bus drivers.

The 80-hour program is part of the college’s Commercial Driver’s License training initiatives intended to address gaps in the workface across the state, according to a release.

The class will equip students with the skills needed to obtain a CDL and pursue careers as professional drivers. Prior to registering for the class, applicants must have their CDL School Bus permit.

Visit the LCC website to learn more about the program and register online.

During this past school year, the Hawaii Department of Education’s severe school bus driver shortage suspended routes and affected over 3,700 students statewide. Although the DOE has been reinstating bus routes, there are still 87 additional drivers needed.

“By expanding our CDL training programs, we’re not only helping alleviate the immediate bus driver shortage but also supporting Hawaii’s broader economic recovery and workforce needs,” said Michael Scully, Leeward CC commercial driver training coordinator, in the release.

The new bus driver training program is being supported by industry partnerships and makes use of a donated bus from Ground Transport Inc.