ECC Truck Driving Alum Excels Thanks to Accommodation Support

Giovanni Leyva worked construction jobs to make a living, but wanted a career with greater earning potential. While exploring his options, he found Elgin Community College’s (ECC) Truck Driving program and was intrigued by the possibility of earning his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in just two months. He was ready to enroll. 

Leyva, who communicates through American Sign Language (ASL), worked with ECC’s Student Access and Disability Services Office to arrange accommodations before classes began. The office coordinated ASL interpreting services throughout the program, allowing him to fully participate in classroom instruction and hands-on learning. 

“Everything was really smooth,” Leyva said through ASL interpreter Alyssa Gentile. “Sometimes, there were times when I didn’t understand, and I would interrupt, and the teacher had no issue re-explaining something to me. I didn’t feel like there were any gaps in communication or huge misunderstandings.”

He was initially drawn to truck driving because he enjoys driving and being on the road. Through the program, he learned more about commercial vehicles, including manual shifting and gear operation. 

He graduated with a Vocational Specialist Certificate in Truck Driving in May and has already connected with companies interested in hiring him. Leyva is particularly interested in working for companies that transport fuel, pipe, or tank products.

“Many people are surprised to learn that hearing-impaired individuals can obtain a CDL and work in the trucking industry,” said Nathan Davidson, director of the truck driving program at ECC. “Drivers who do not meet the federal hearing standard may qualify for a hearing exemption through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), but the process requires the submission of additional medical documentation for federal review, which can take several months to complete. Giovanni remained committed through that process and was among the first in his class to obtain his CDL, passing his test with the Illinois Secretary of State on the first attempt.”

With his CDL in hand and his career just beginning, Leyva is already focused on the opportunities ahead.

His long-term goals are to gain experience, build financial stability, and eventually become an owner-operator. Eventually, he would like to get his own truck and start his own business. 

Although Leyva is focused on launching his career, he has also considered returning in the future to take welding classes in ECC’s new Manufacturing and Technology Center, or some business courses to further expand his skills. 

Leyva has become an advocate for the program among his friends, who are also hearing-impaired. He has shared his experience and encouraged them to consider ECC’s truck driving program, highlighting the college’s commitment to providing accommodations and support services.

His friends are still considering their paths, but for Leyva, his next path is the wide-open road. 

For more information about ECC’s Truck Driving Program, visit elgin.edu/truckdriving. A grand opening of the new training facility is scheduled for November 5.