Students in the CiTi BOCES Adult Education Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program will soon have a new way to build their skills and prepare for the challenges of the road.

Thanks to a $100,000 grant from Empire State Development’s Green Chips Community Investment Fund along with a $75,000 matching grant from the Richard S. Shineman Foundation, CiTi BOCES has added a state-of-the-art Doron Precision 550TruckPlus-IX Driving Simulator System to its CDL training program.

The simulator will give students the opportunity to experience realistic driving situations in a safe, controlled environment while building the skills needed for careers in the trucking and transportation industries.

The system features a 225-degree view across three 55-inch screens, surround sound and a moving platform that pitches and responds to what is happening during the simulation. Students will also have the opportunity to train using both standard and automatic transmissions and can experience driving a variety of vehicles, including tractor-trailers and dump trucks.

One of the greatest benefits of the simulator is the ability to customize scenarios for individual students. Instructors can expose students to obstacles, hazards and challenging driving conditions that may not naturally occur consistently during traditional behind-the-wheel instruction.

“The simulator will allow us to customize scenarios so we can ensure students are exposed to various obstacles and hazards,” said Amie Abold, CTE Coordinator of Adult Education . “It will also give us the opportunity to provide instruction in situations that cannot occur naturally on a consistent basis, including hazardous driving conditions.”

The technology will also provide additional support for students who are struggling with the shifting requirements of a standard transmission, allowing them to practice and build confidence before getting behind the wheel in a real-world setting.

By combining traditional hands-on instruction with advanced simulation technology, CiTi BOCES continues to expand opportunities for adult learners while preparing students with the skills and experience needed to succeed in high-demand transportation careers.

The new simulator represents another investment in workforce development and in providing innovative, high-quality training opportunities that connect students with meaningful career pathways.