BBNC opens applications for Kenai Class A CDL training

Alaska residents who are Bristol Bay Native Corporation shareholders, spouses or descendants can apply now for Class A commercial driver's license training in Kenai this fall. Grant terms set the residency rule. Enrollment is ongoing, based on available class dates, and no deadline is set. Applications go through an online form linked from BBNC's announcement, and applicants must be at least 18.

The training is run with Kenai Peninsula Driving Instruction. It begins with 40 hours of online coursework completed independently before hands-on training in Kenai. Applicants need access to a computer or laptop and a resume and talent profile on mybbnc.net. BBNC's last Class A course, in Palmer, ran four weeks, Feb. 16 to March 12. The announcement does not state a cost.

Additional requirements include a valid Alaska Class D license, the ordinary noncommercial license, a DMV instructional permit in the class being trained for obtained before the course starts, a CDL medical examiner's certificate from a DOT-authorized physician, a passing drug screening, enrollment in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's drug and alcohol Clearinghouse, and an acceptable driving record with motor vehicle reports submitted beforehand. Students may face random drug testing during the program. DWI and other serious infractions may be considered in determining ineligibility. A felony involving a motor vehicle, a drug crime, driving under the influence, or hit-and-run resulting in injury or death makes a candidate ineligible. Any criminal conviction bars a driver from operating a commercial vehicle into Canada.

BBNC, formed under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, has more than 11,000 shareholders. Questions go to Charity Irmen at (907) 265-7840 or [email protected].