Michael Geissler
CDL Program Manager
Laramie County Community College
Cheyenne, WY USA
“Use every opportunity to learn as much possible.”
Milestones
My road in life has taken me all over.
As an airport fire fighter operated oversize trucks and developed a passion for big rigs. Learned everything I could and certified on every piece of equipment assigned.
Between firefighting shifts, pursued the passion of driving big rigs. After 11 years, I gave up firefighting for a CDL career driving over the road.
Relocated to Colorado and started my own corporate transportation business. For 19 years provided fleet service in buses, vans, and limousines locally, nationally and internationally.
In 2016 ran an operations center, CDL trained and provided logistics to over 200 personnel.
In 2021 accepted a CDL Coordinator position with Laramie County Community college to stand up a brand new CDL program from scratch.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Westhill High School
Westhill High School
Bachelor
Fire Science Technology
Red Rocks Community College
Fire Science Technology
Red Rocks Community College
Career
CDL Program Manager
Coordinate the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training program for Laramie County Community College
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Entrepreneurship
Problem Solving
Day to Day
Develop and test new means of tracking student progress in the CDL industry. Develop solutions and adjust schedules for strong learners and accommodate for slower learners. Network with industry leaders and establish curriculum that meets the local needs. In addition, develop CDL related training programs that will enhance the experience and knowledge of students outside of just obtaining a commercial driver's license.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Obtain a CDL from a reputable driving school. Make sure the school is actively invested in the community and is involved in industry focus and advisory groups, offer quality job leads and assist in job placement. Pursue educational grants and seek financial aid. Once you get your CDL, be prepared to earn less the first year but gain the required experience needed to go after the company that is right for you. The first year will be toughest. Use every opportunity to learn as much possible.
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Certification/License
Transportation / Logistics
Transportation / Logistics
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"Why would you get into trucking? There are better jobs out there."
Challenges I Overcame
Financial
Compliance Issues
