Prestage Farms, a leading producer in the livestock industry, donated a livestock trailer and hog chute to Sampson Community College’s (SCC) Truck Driver Training program in early May 2024. This generous contribution aims to enhance the educational resources available to students and better prepare them for a successful career in livestock transportation.

The donated livestock trailer, equipped with the technology and safety features students would encounter in the workforce, will serve as an invaluable training tool for students enrolled in the Truck Driver Training program. By providing hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment, this initiative underscores Prestage Farms’ commitment to supporting local education and promoting the skilled workforce needed in the livestock sector.

Jesse Sumner, Production Coordinator at Prestage Farms, highlighted the importance of the donation: "Prestage Farms consistently donates equipment to support the community college’s mission to train and prepare our future workforce. This livestock trailer will provide their students with the hands-on experience necessary to excel in the industry."

The Truck Driver Training program at SCC has a strong reputation for producing well-trained and highly skilled graduates ready to enter the workforce. The inclusion of the livestock trailer in the training curriculum will provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in transporting live animals, a niche yet vital segment of the trucking industry, especially for students looking for employment in and around Sampson County.

“We are deeply grateful to Prestage Farms for their generous donations and unwavering support over the years.” remarked Anthony Fiorito, Director of Transportation Programs at SCC. “Their latest donation of a hog trailer and hog chute is an invaluable contribution. This allows our students to gain hands-on experience, safely and effectively back into a hog chute, and enhance their practical skills and industry preparedness. Their support is instrumental in helping us provide high-quality, real-world training for our students.”

For more information about the Truck Driver Training program at Sampson Community College, please visit SCC’s website or contact the Workforce Development & Continuing Education office at (910) 592-7176.

Editor’s Note: This story was originally written by Megan Bednar and posted by Sampson Community College on their Viking Voice blog page. Read their version here.