By Kelsey Meshell | NLTCC
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) is excited to celebrate the achievements of two exceptional students, Max Kaiser and Kuravion Manning, who are paving the way as the first dual enrollment graduates from the Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator Program. Both students will graduate from NLTCC with their CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) Class A certification this May, which will coincide with their high school graduation. Their success showcases the effectiveness of dual enrollment programs in bridging education and career readiness.
Kuravion Manning, a student at Ringgold High School, shared, “I’m thankful for the program because it’s helping me get a head start on my career as a heavy equipment operator.” Max Kaiser, from Saline High School, added, “NLTCC gave me confidence and showed me new career opportunities in the heavy equipment industry.”
The success of these students is credited to the dedication of their teachers, including Jennie Cruise, Dustin Henderson, Richard Isgitt, Ronald Jackson, and Creed Wheaton, who played important roles in teaching them everything from construction site safety to driving skills on rural, urban and interstate highways.
Jennie Cruse, the HEVO director, highlighted the program’s strict standards and benefits for students. “Our program is State and Federally regulated, so we first had to ensure that everyone met the age requirement of being eighteen years old to enroll.” she explained, adding, “This program is especially valuable for students because of the high-paying career opportunities available. I love introducing students to this program. It can lead to a lifelong career.”
The program was created thanks to the collaboration of Dr. Tiffany J. Howard (CWD, LCTCS) and Mrs. Jennie Cruse. Timothy Williams (District Test Coordinator/Coordinator of College & Career Initiatives) in Bienville Parish also helped NLTCC connect with local schools, allowing more students from Bienville Parish to join and graduate in the same program next May.
For more information about the Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator program at NLTCC, visit nltcc.edu or call 318.371.3035 to speak to a member of the student services team.
