Open House for Heartland Community College Truck Driver Training Program

NORMAL, IL, Aug. 12, 2026 – Individuals interested in getting behind the wheel of a big rig can get an inside look at the trucking industry during the Nussbaum Training Academy Open House.

The Heartland Community College Nussbaum Truck Driver Training Academy is hosting an open house on Saturday, August 15 from 8:00 a.m. to noon.

The event, held at Nussbaum’s headquarters, located at 19336 N. 1425 E. Road, Hudson, IL, will offer individuals an opportunity to explore a semi tractor-trailer, test their skills on a driving simulator, and learn more about the training program.

In 2021, Heartland entered into an agreement with Nussbaum Transportation to form the Nussbaum Trucking Academy at Heartland Community College. In this unique public-private model, HCC’s Continuing Education provides advising, orientation, maintains student records, ensures curriculum and instructional efficacy, and offers Essential Workplace Skills. Nussbaum provides instructors, creates class schedules, oversees training, trucks, and fuel.

Nussbaum Trucking Academy at HCC is a cohort-based model where students gain 160 hours of preparation for obtaining a Class A Commercial Driver’s License. The coursework includes 40 hours of classroom instruction and 120 hours of behind-the-wheel training to test for a restricted license; an optional additional week will be offered for those wanting to test for an unrestricted license. Heartland offers four-week and eight-week programs for Truck Driver Training.

No previous experience is required, but students must have a current driver’s license issued by the State of Illinois, be 18 years or older, and complete and pass the Department of Transportation Physical and Drug screening.