CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The Chicago Transit Authority is extending a program to attract new bus drivers.
The CTA has worked with Olive-Harvey College to offer a free course to help people obtain Commercial Learner's Permits, which are needed to obtain Class "B" commercial driver's licenses required to drive CTA buses.
The CTA covers the cost of tuition, training, books and exam fees, removing financial barriers for students to complete the program.
“The CLP pilot program proved to be very successful, helping us meet and exceed our 2023 hiring goals for bus operators, by providing quality, specialized training and opening a door many candidates may not have pursued otherwise due to the financial burden," CTA president Dorval Carter said in a statement.
Since 2022, the CTA has hired 145 graduates of the program.
“Helping develop productive workforces through engaging learning is our goal at Olive-Harvey and we hope everyone interested takes advantage of this unique program," Dr. Kimberly Hollingsworth, president of Olive-Harvey College.
CTA leaders said the program helped the agency meet and exceed its hiring goals for bus drivers last year.
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