In September, students in Sampson Community College’s (SCC) Truck Driver Training Program had a unique opportunity to train on the North Carolina Trucking Association's one-of-a-kind $4.5 million driving simulation trailer. This state-of-the-art technology offers a realistic, safe environment to simulate critical on-the-road challenges.

"The NCTA simulator allows us to immerse students in real-world challenges without leaving campus," said Anthony Fiorito, Director of Transportation Programs at SCC in a press release. "It gives them the opportunity to practice maneuvering in adverse weather, navigating congested highways, and managing other critical driving scenarios – all within a controlled, educational setting."

With simulations lasting three to five minutes depending on the exercise, students were guided by a team of experts with a combined 218 years of professional trucking experience, courtesy of the NCTA's Road Team Captains. This hands-on training provides SCC students an unparalleled advantage as they prepare to enter the trucking industry.

Each simulation had a range of tests and distractions that mimicked life-like scenarios they do not get to see every day. It then resulted in a great team building exercise when students who had already completed the training, also began to assist other students during the exercises.

“The instructors also got a chance to get in the seat,” Fiorito commented. “The operators were putting us in some much harder simulations involving different distractions, road conditions and weather conditions. When it was my turn, I was very impressed with how life like it (simulation) felt.”

SCC extends their thanks to the NCTA for the amazing experience for our students. SCC remains committed to delivering top-tier training and real-world experience to future truck drivers. If you are interested in learning more about our program, please visit www.sampsoncc.edu/truck-driver-training.