CAREER TRAINING RESOURCES

The journey to becoming a professional truck driver has begun. Whether you’re a first-time driver or looking for a CDL refresher course, Advanced Career Institute is ready to show each of our students their future in the trucking industry. This guide is to help our students learn more about the programs we offer, how they can pay for it, and steer them toward a successful career.

Looking for a particular resource? Jump ahead!

• CDL Training Programs at ACI
• Financial Aid for CDL and Truck Driver Training
• What to Expect in Truck Driver Training
• Prepare for Your CDL Permit Test
• More CDL Training Questions? We've Got Answers!

CDL Training Programs at ACI

Here at Advanced Career Institute, we offer a variety of different CDL classes at different campuses to help incoming students prepare for their new career in the trucking industry. This includes a variety of Class A CDL courses as well as a refresher course for those who have previously received their commercial driver's license.

Professional Truck Driver Program

Our Professional Truck Driver Program, offered at all 5 of our campuses, is our introductory truck driver training program. This course is designed for students who have no prior experience in the industry and are looking to get their CDL. This training has extensive classroom training and behind-the-wheel practice to prepare you for the exam. This course is 4 weeks long and will total 160 hours of classroom and range training.

Advanced Professional Truck Driver Program

For students who would like more time to build their skills behind the wheel, we offer an Advanced Professional Truck Driver Program. This 6-week course covers the same crucial topics included in our Professional Truck Driver Program but adds more time in the driver's seat to prepare for the Class A CDL exam.

Ag Transportation

If you’re interested in our Ag Transportation program, offered at both our Visalia and Las Vegas campuses, it is also open to students with no prior experience. This extended course provides advanced training to students on procedures for both the truck driving and agricultural industries. Like with our other truck driver training programs, you’ll be prepared for the operations of truck driving, but also be instructed on how to transport products and equipment in the agricultural industry. For this 20-week course, students will have ample time to become comfortable behind the wheel and transporting specialty agricultural materials.

Commercial Driver 3-Week Program

The Commercial Driver 3-Week Program is an expedited course for students who already have a valid CDL Permit in California or Nevada, and a valid DOT medical card. This course is a behind-the-wheel only program to prepare students for the driving portion of the exam. With only 120 hours needed to complete this course, our staff works quickly to ensure that students are ready to hit the road with confidence as soon as possible.

Financial Aid for CDL and Truck Driver Training

At Advanced Career Institute, we help all our incoming students find ways to pay for the CDL training they need. When our students meet with the Financial Aid Office, the goal is to find the right payment method for them. This could include using any military benefits, government funding, or payment plans.

Many students who walk through the door may qualify for military benefits when they choose to enroll at Advanced Career Institute. Whether they are an active military member, a veteran, or a family member of a military member, they may be eligible for a variety of financial aid programs.

Programs you may qualify for

• Post 9/11 GI Bill
• Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB)
• Special Vocational Training (SVT)
• Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program
• Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
• Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
• DoD Tuition Assistance (TA) Program
• Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA)

If you wish to know more about your options, check out our Veterans Assistance page, or connect with our Financial Aid Office. Another popular financing option is known as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, or WIOA. This grant provides individuals who are looking for training with funding to individuals who want to start a new career so they can succeed in the workforce. WIOA partners with the Department of Labor and other federal partners to help states offer this program for those who need assistance affording their training. The federal government may also award incoming students grants based on their qualifications. A common grant would be the Federal Pell Grant. This form of financial aid is typically given to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial needs and have not yet earned a degree or certificate. Unlike loans, students do not have to repay Pell Grants. Financial need is determined by the Department of Education, and qualification is based on a variety of options. This includes your financial need, the cost to attend school, and your status as a student. If you would like to learn more about the Pell Grant and how you can qualify, let our Financial Aid Office help you get started.

If you’re not interested in taking out a loan, or you cannot qualify for grants, Advanced Career Institute also offers payment plans as an alternative. This will break the tuition cost into equal monthly payments. Our Financial Aid office will also be happy to help you set up automated payment plans for your schooling. If you’re interested in setting up monthly payment plans, our Financial Aid Office will work to find the right fit for you!

If you’re interested in other payment options, check out our tuition assistance page for a full list of financial aid opportunities.

What to Expect in Truck Driver Training

At Advanced Career Institute, our courses are designed to combine classroom training and behind-the-wheel practice. Classroom training is built to prepare you for the CDL written exam with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Driving on the range and practicing on the road are also a crucial part of obtaining your CDL.

The first step in each of our courses is to prepare students for their CDL permit test. This takes place during the first week of training, and we prepare our students to obtain their Class A driving permit with all endorsements, except for the hazardous materials endorsement. This endorsement requires that you take an additional Hazmat theory course that is included in the Entry-Level Driver training prior to the exam.

Once a student achieves their permit, we will start entry-level driver training. This includes everything a student can prepare for when getting on the road behind the wheel. From different weather conditions to night operation and space management, our students will learn the proper protocol when handling the truck. Our students also learn the importance of pre-trip inspection and post-trip inspection. During this time, we teach them how to identify parts and inspect their vehicle to ensure safety.

When our students are able to understand their truck inside and out, that’s when we get them driving. Students start training with basic maneuvers such as backing, alley docking, parallel parking, and coupling/uncoupling. Students will also learn basic handling of the truck both on the range and the public roads. This is the longest portion of the training, ensuring that students are safe and comfortable behind the wheel prior to taking their exams.

Prepare for Your CDL Permit Test

The CDL training courses that are offered at Advanced Career Institute are designed to help you prepare for the exams, but attending class is not the only way to prepare. Students must also put forth the effort in preparing for the test. It’s important to study and become proficient in every aspect of truck driving to pass. It’s important that students don’t simply memorize terms and rules; they need to understand the concepts and feel comfortable in the driver’s seat. It’s also important for students to practice their exam, with several online options like this CDL practice exam for students to take. This will prepare students for the California DMV written tests. If you’re looking for ways to study outside of the classroom – take a look at this  DMV CDL study guide, or this online CDL Test Study Guide.

More CDL Training Questions? We've Got Answers!

In this blog, we’ve answered a lot of questions about what to expect as a new CDL student. But what if you have other questions? We’ve created a section of frequently asked questions for incoming students or people just interested in learning more. Our staff is also a wealth of knowledge when it comes to trucking and is ready to answer any questions you may have about education or the trucking industry.

Ready to Begin CDL Training? Start Your Trucking Career with ACI!

Here at Advanced Career Institute, we value each student that walks through our doors. From the time they enroll, we want to help our students put the best foot forward toward their new career. We help our students earn a variety of endorsements in hazardous materials, air brakes, and tankers. Now imagine that your CDL tanker endorsement leads you to deliver key ingredients for rocket fuel at a well-known launch site. One of our graduates, Logan, got the chance to live this moment for himself after graduating from ACI, and we want to tell his story. Logan attended both our Visalia and Fresno campuses earlier this year, graduating just a few months ago. Before getting his tanker endorsement with us, Logan was doing something else exciting – loading helicopters. Working with the agricultural community, he helped prep helicopters to crop dust fields. Although, this wasn’t the job he wanted to have for the next 30 years, he wanted something more reliable.

A New Path with Purpose: Why Logan Chose a CDL Career

“I wanted a more reliable and steady income. Acquiring a CDL makes you employable in the 49 continental states,” he states, “I wanted to always have steady employment to help raise my kids.” After multiple people recommended Advanced Career Institute, Logan chose to enroll at our Visalia campus.. When asked about his experience at both the Visalia and Fresno campuses, he had nothing but kind things to say about the staff members. From start to finish, there were staff members and instructors that helped him to succeed. “Melissa was so perfect at the pre-trip and wouldn’t allow anyone to cut corners, she didn’t want to make us unsafe drivers.”

More Than Just a Job: Driving Toward Rocket Launch Sites

In the short time following his training with ACI, Logan found himself employed quickly. Logan started to drive tanker trucks with a lot of different contents. One of these deliveries being calumet – an inactive ingredient in rocket fuel. While it’s considered a non-hazmat material, Logan is working toward getting his hazmat endorsement. This is so that he can deliver more materials to popular launch sites. This would include hauling hazmat and doubles, so that he can haul all the materials needed for rocket fuel. While rocket fuel is not the only delivery Logan makes, his contract doing so has helped others. Most notably, he delivered materials to a launch station preparing to retrieve Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station in March of this year.

Eyes on the Horizon: What’s Next for Logan in Trucking

“Since graduating, I’ve hauled tankers, pneumatics, low beds, flatbeds, as well as bottom-dump and side-dump trailers – all for the same company.” He explained, “I’ve already got to haul eight different types of trailers over the course of two months.” Logan has been working hard from the beginning to give himself every opportunity in the trucking industry. He actively pursued his hazmat certification and licenses as a bulk milk hauler and sampler. This helped him gain valuable experience with each haul he completed. By making himself skilled in so many parts of the trucking field, he’s been able to assists companies like Kinder Morgan and Harris Ranch in transporting their products. We asked Logan what he would tell any future students at ACI. His best advice for future CDL drivers: apply yourself. “Don’t let any personal distractions come in the way of your future goals,” Logan recommends, “Once you get your CDL and find your place of employment, it’s a major relief.” He also mentions how important your driving record is for success in the CDL industry. He even made a comparison between a drivers performance and their resume. ACI is here to help each and every one of our students understand the importance of driver safety. Logan got to experience that first-hand at our Fresno campus. “I 100% know that Fresno will create a safe driver, and it will help them to acquire their CDL without fail if they attend that campus.” If you’re ready to launch yourself into a career in trucking, reach out to us today to get started! Learn the California requirements for tanker endorsements!

In honor of Women’s History Month, we would like to celebrate Dynastie Arellano, one of our recent welding graduates. We appreciate all of our students and love to share in their success, which is why we’re sharing her story this month as a special spotlight. While men have primarily dominated welding, women made significant strides in the field during World War II. During this time, women stepped up to help in any way that they could. This movement coined terms like “Rosie the Riveter” or “Winnie the Welder” to symbolize the shift of women into the industrial workforce. This was just the beginning of the shift for women in the welding industry, and the number grows every day. After graduating from high school Dynastie found a passion for welding, picking it up as a hobby in her spare time. Wanting to further her education, she sought out a school that could help her get her certifications. “I went to school and I really fell in love with welding, so I decided to look for a school. Then I found ACI and I really liked it.” When asking Dynastie what the most enjoyable about her time at school, she told us about several experiences that helped her to learn and expand her welding knowledge. With a balance of hands-on practice and bookwork, she found that her hands-on experience is what really helped her to learn the trade better. During her time at ACI, she built a supportive community, learning alongside peers and gaining knowledge from her instructors. She found friends in her welding class to work together with and build a bond during her classes. “We would have little dinners with everyone, the whole class. The instructor, Jesse, and the others would bring food and it really helped us become more comfortable working together.” Dynastie spoke at length about how good of a fit ACI had been for her and really enjoyed everyone she worked with – from the administration team to the other students. “Jesse has been very helpful, and he’s just a bright spirit overall. He’s helped us with finding work. He’s given us the opportunity to finish our certifications before moving on to go to work as well.” After Dynastie graduated from ACI, she continued her education and continued to get more certifications before going into the workforce. She values the importance of preparation and doing her best work during her education, and she actively seeks to arm herself with as much knowledge as possible. “It’s not a race – everyone works at their own pace. Just don’t compare yourself to everyone. It’s a very competitive field, but everyone learns in their own time!” Here at ACI we work hard to provide an inclusive environment for all our students, regardless of gender! We commit to excellence in all our courses and always strive to help our students succeed in the welding field. If you're ready to start your journey toward a welding career, ACI will work with you to achieve your goals! Contact us today to get started! The number of women who have joined the welding profession is always growing, and we’re here to support your goals! If you've joined the welding community, explore these resources to learn more, especially for women interested in welding!

Welding is a critical skill that supports a wide range of industries, from construction and manufacturing to aerospace and energy. Without skilled welders, essential structures, machinery, and transportation systems wouldn’t be possible. As industries continue to grow and evolve, the demand for trained welders remains strong, offering countless career opportunities for those with the right skills. In this blog, we’ll explore the industries that rely on welders, highlighting the vital role they play and the exciting career paths available in this essential trade.

Why Welding Is an Essential Skill Across Industries

Welding jobs are a fundamental trade that serves as the backbone of countless industries, making it one of the most versatile and in-demand skills in the workforce. From towering skyscrapers and massive bridges to intricate aerospace components and high-performance vehicles, welding is responsible for creating and maintaining the structures and equipment that keep the world moving. Beyond construction and manufacturing, welders play a crucial role in emerging industries like renewable energy and advanced technology, ensuring innovation and progress continue. With advancements in automation and specialized welding techniques, the need for skilled welders is only growing, offering job security and career advancement opportunities across a variety of fields.

Industries That Rely on Welders

1. Construction and Infrastructure

The construction industry depends heavily on welders to create and maintain buildings, bridges, and other essential infrastructure. Welders work on steel frameworks, reinforce concrete structures, and ensure the stability of high-rise buildings. Public infrastructure, such as highways, tunnels, and pipelines, also requires skilled welders to maintain and repair metal components. As cities expand and new projects develop, welders remain at the forefront of this industry.

2. Manufacturing and Fabrication

Manufacturing is one of the largest industries for welders, offering employment in factories that produce everything from household appliances to industrial machinery. Welders work with metal components to assemble products, reinforce materials, and ensure durability. Many modern manufacturing facilities use automated welding processes, but skilled welders are still needed to oversee production, inspect welds, and handle intricate tasks that machines cannot perform.

3. Automotive and Transportation

Welders play a significant role in the automotive industry, helping to build and repair cars, trucks, and even public transportation systems like buses and trains. Every vehicle contains welded components that contribute to its safety and efficiency. Welders also work on custom automotive projects, such as race cars and specialty vehicles, creating high-performance frames and exhaust systems. With the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles, the demand for specialized welding skills in this field is increasing.

4. Aerospace and Aviation

Precision welding is crucial in the aerospace industry, where aircraft and spacecraft require strong, lightweight, and durable materials. Aerospace welders work on airplane fuselages, jet engines, and satellite components, using advanced techniques like TIG welding and laser welding to ensure structural integrity. The high standards and safety regulations in aerospace welding make this a challenging but rewarding career path.

5. Shipbuilding and Maritime Industry

The maritime industry depends on welders to build and repair ships, submarines, and offshore drilling platforms. These structures must withstand extreme weather conditions and the constant wear of saltwater exposure. Some welders in this field specialize in underwater welding, a highly skilled and high-paying profession that involves working in submerged environments to repair ship hulls, pipelines, and offshore structures.

6. Energy and Power Generation

Welding is essential in the energy sector, helping to construct and maintain pipelines, power plants, and renewable energy systems. In the oil and gas industry, pipeline welders work in challenging environments to ensure the safe transportation of fuel. Meanwhile, the renewable energy sector relies on welders to build wind turbine towers, solar panel structures, and hydroelectric power facilities. As the world shifts toward sustainable energy, welders will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of power generation.

7. Agriculture and Heavy Equipment

Farms and agricultural businesses rely on welders to repair and maintain heavy machinery, including tractors, plows, and irrigation systems. Welding is used to build sturdy equipment that can endure rough conditions and heavy use. Skilled welders in this industry ensure that farmers and construction workers have the durable tools they need to operate efficiently.

8. Military and Defense

The military relies on welders to build and maintain vehicles, ships, aircraft, and infrastructure used in national defense. Military welders may work on armored vehicles, aircraft carriers, or even weapons systems, ensuring they meet strict durability and performance standards. Some welders in this industry work directly for government agencies, while others are employed by defense contractors.

How to Get Started in Welding for These Industries

For those interested in a welding career, proper training and certifications are essential. Many industries require specialized welding skills, so gaining hands-on experience and obtaining certifications from organizations can open doors to high-paying opportunities. Enrolling in a welding training program, such as the one offered at Advanced Career Institute, can help aspiring welders build a strong foundation and gain the technical knowledge needed to succeed in various industries.

Why Welding Is a Strong Career Choice

Welding jobs offer security, career advancement, and excellent earning potential. As industries continue to expand and evolve, the demand for skilled welders remains steady. Whether working on massive infrastructure projects, high-tech aerospace components, or cutting-edge renewable energy systems, welders have the opportunity to build a fulfilling career in a field that keeps the world running. From construction and manufacturing to aerospace and energy, skilled welders are needed in nearly every industry. Welding jobs provide stability, diverse career paths, and opportunities for professional growth. If you're considering a hands-on career with strong earning potential, welding could be the perfect choice for you.

Start your welding journey today with Advanced Career Institute and gain the skills needed to work in these essential industries!

On Saturday January 11^th, we held an open house at our CDL school in Las Vegas for aspiring truck drivers. We held this event to allow people interested in our classes to get hands-on experience at our facility! From classroom tours, to meeting with industry professionals, and even allowing our prospective students to see our training yard and trucks up close and personal, we are happy to show them everything that Advanced Career Institute’s CDL school has to offer! [video width="800" height="800" mp4="https://advanced.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/January-2024-Blog-Carosel.mp4"][/video]   From the first day, we make it a top priority to prepare our students for their future! With state-of-the-art equipment and hands-on training, we are ready to show our students the importance of their work in truck driving. Advanced Career Institute combines comprehensive classroom instruction with hands-on range training to equip students with essential driving knowledge. Students gain valuable behind-the-wheel experience under the guidance of skilled instructors. We also offer hands-on truck driving simulation training to prepare students for real-world driving scenarios. Their state-of-the-art simulators provide a safe and controlled environment for mastering essential skills and techniques. The benefits of studying at Advanced Career Institute’s CDL school don’t stop there. Throughout your time here, you’ll have the opportunity to network with several of our trucking partners! We're here to help you build your relationships in our industry to help you kickstart your career! If you’re looking to drive your career in a new direction, Advanced Career Institute is here to help you! ACI open houses connect you with others and simplify the process of getting started! Keep an eye out for our next event! Call us at 877-649-9614 or reach out online to start your journey today! We would love to help you learn more about enrolling in your future!

In a world where technology keeps advancing, the trucking industry is gearing up for some big changes. From self-driving trucks to eco-friendly ways of moving goods, let's take a peek into what's ahead for trucking.

Autonomous Vehicles

A hot topic in the industry is the arrival of self-driving trucks. Although fully self-driving trucks might not be here yet, we're already seeing some features that help trucks drive themselves a bit. Things like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are being added to trucks. These features not only make driving safer but also help trucks use less fuel.

Smart Planning with Data

Trucking companies now have superpowers thanks to data. They can track their trucks in real-time and use that info to plan better routes, save fuel, and make deliveries faster.

Eco-Friendly Trucks

People are worried about the environment, so trucking is going green. Electric trucks that run on clean energy are becoming popular. They don't pollute like regular trucks and can save money in the long run.

Keeping Things Moving, No Matter What

The COVID-19 pandemic showed how important it is to keep things moving, even when there are big problems. Trucking companies are learning to be ready for anything by making their plans more flexible and smart. In short, the future of trucking is all about using new tech and being kinder to the planet. While there are still some bumps in the road, like rules and roads that need upgrading, the future looks exciting. With teamwork between truckers, lawmakers, and tech experts, we're set to roll into a smarter, greener tomorrow for trucking! Get started in towards a career in trucking today! Call our admissions team at 866-951-4821 to learn more about enrolling with ACI!