Students and officials gathered on May 25th at Olive-Harvey College (OHC) to celebrate the successful partnership between Pace and OHC on a customized two-week course to assist individuals in obtaining their CDL permit in order to start their career as professional bus operators. Two classes have already graduated, and 11 students are now working at Pace.
Olive-Harvey College President Kimberly Hollingsworth opened the program and welcomed guests. “Creating a path from the classroom to meaningful employment is our mission and that’s why this partnership with Pace makes good sense,” said Hollingsworth. “Within weeks students can earn their CDL license at our college and be on their way to fulfilling their career goals. Seeing the smiles on their faces today as they earned their credential is the icing on the cake.”
Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski was next to speak. “This program is a prime example of public servants working together to overcome a challenge—in our case, the significant bus operator shortage affecting the transit industry nationally,” he said. “We can’t afford to let positions stay vacant. And luckily, Olive-Harvey is very good at giving people the skills they need to succeed.”
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle was next to address the students. “Vocational education is critical to ensuring that a society is able to function – that the jobs which are most integral to our daily lives are filled with skilled and talented workers,” said Preckwinkle. “This is why the partnership between Olive-Harvey College and Pace is so important. Olive-Harvey is providing training and preparing a workforce that Pace needs.” Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore spoke next, commending President Kimberly Hollingsworth, and noting that Pace had been a wonderful partner since he became a commissioner ten years ago.
Those seeking employment are encouraged to learn more at PaceBus.com/careers.
Photo Caption: (center-right) Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger, Chairman Rick Kwasneski, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore, Olive-Harvey President Kimberly Hollingsworth, and Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. pose with students and administrators at Olive-Harvey College.
Photo Credit: City Colleges of Chicago
