News Archives: GPRC & Gibson Energy Collaborate to Increase Access to the Class 1 Driving Experience
Friday, May 18th, 2012
GPRC Continuing Education and Gibson Energy have partnered up to offer a unique experience to individuals interested in pursuing a truck driving career. Gibson Energy will be parking their state of the art Class 1 Driving Simulator at GPRC for two days next week. Various community groups will be testing out the simulator to experience firsthand what it’s like to drive a big rig, but within the safe confines of a simulator. Gibson Energy is always seeking certified Class 1 drivers to work for them, and GPRC Continuing Education offers Class 1 and Class 3 Driver Training. “This was a great opportunity to allow community groups and the general public to learn more about the truck driving experience. We are so pleased that Gibson allowed us to offer this opportunity,” states Darwin Eckstrom, Director of GPRC Continuing Education. Darcy Rautenstrauch, District Manager Northern of Gibson Energy states, “Gibson Energy is pleased to be participating in Grande Prairie Regional College’s driver demonstration on May 22nd and 23rd. Our Driving Simulator is a valuable tool which enhances safe driver training. Safety is our priority and partnering with an organization such as the college allows opportunities to promote safe driving habits and highlights the importance of making our communities safer.” The simulator will be stationed in parking lot A at GPRC on May 22nd and May 23rd. Individuals aged 18 and over who are interested in a career as a Class 1 driver are encouraged to try out the simulator on the afternoon of May 23rd, from 12:30 pm " 4:00 pm. Grande Prairie Mayor, Bill Given, County of Grande Prairie Reeve, Leanne Beaupre, and GPRC’s VP Fairview, Marg McCuaig-Boyd, will be on site to experience the simulator for themselves on Tuesday afternoon.