Staff members of Great Lakes Truck Driving, including owners James and Doris Young at the Growth Capital Awards Dinner.

Great Lakes Truck Driving School has experienced continuous growth since opening its doors in July 2008. The school has added 30 employees, a heavy equipment training division, and more than doubled the student training areas.

James and Doris Young, owners, operate the school according to its mission statement “Our success is measured in direct proportion to the success of our students. Our goal is to provide quality instructional programs in a student-centered culture built on respect, encouragement, and continuous support; while empowering students with the foundation for a lifetime of success.”

The school was also nominated in December ’09 by the Columbia Area Chamber of Commerce for the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award, a national award from the United States Chamber of Commerce.

Great Lakes Truck Driving School is located on a 10.7 acre lot just a few miles west of Strongsville. A 9000 square foot building houses classrooms and offices. The lot has a large CDL skill practice area complete with the only shifting track available to truck driving students in the region. A work zone has also been created for future heavy equipment operators to practice real-life work situations.

Plans for the future include expansion of current facilities, a computer lab available for students, and National Accreditation.

The school’s start up was funded with an SBA 504 loan through Wayne Savings Community Bank of Wooster, OH and Growth Capital Corporation of Cleveland, OH.