Accessibility in Action: Deaf Student Secures CDL-A License at CACC

by Chance Jones

Posted on Oct 28, 2026 at 1:38 PM

Alexander City, Ala. - Central Alabama Community College is proud to celebrate the success of Darren James, who recently earned his Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) through the college’s Truck Driving Training program.

Born with the ability to hear, James was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis as a child and became deaf. Undeterred, he set his sights on a career in commercial truck driving, drawn to the open road and the essential role drivers play in keeping businesses and communities moving.

James was inspired to pursue his goal after learning that two of his deaf friends had successfully completed truck driving training at CACC’s Alexander City campus. He also took encouragement from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s longstanding process of granting hearing exemptions, which has opened doors for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to obtain CDLs for interstate commerce since 2013.

James first learned about CACC’s program through his vocational rehabilitation contact, Stacey Gray-Smith. Once enrolled, the college provided an interpreter, ensuring he could fully understand safety procedures, training requirements, and driving techniques.

“[After talking with Stacey] I decided to choose CACC,” stated James. “Earning my CDL will give me greater confidence and a great opportunity to build a better future for myself and my family.”

CACC Truck Driving Instructor Beasley Martin, who brings 21 years of experience to the classroom, supported James with detailed video instruction and hands-on guidance covering critical skills such as four-way stops, straight-line backing, offset left and right reverse maneuvers, proper use of space on turns, and effective mirror utilization.

“Accessibility is central to our mission. We work to remove barriers and provide the support every student needs to succeed,” added CACC President Jeff Lynn. “We are so proud of Darren’s determination and achievement!”

CACC’s Truck Driving Training program prepares students for both CDL Class A and Class B licenses through intensive classroom, range, and road instruction. The college remains committed to providing accessible training and accommodations that empower students of all abilities to achieve their career goals.

For more information about CACC’s Truck Driving Training program, visit cacc.edu or contact the Workforce Development office at 256-378-2031.

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