On this episode of Education Station on Road Gang Radio, host Jimmy Mac is joined by Missy Blair, M.Ed., Academic Director at Pima Community College’s Center for Transportation & Logistics, for an in-depth conversation about CDL training reform, education standards, and what real driver preparation should look like.

The discussion centers on recent FMCSA enforcement of the Training Provider Registry (TPR), which has resulted in thousands of CDL training providers being removed from the registry. Missy explains why this enforcement matters, how self-certification created gaps in training quality, and why safety—not speed—must remain the priority.

Key topics include:

Why over 6,000 CDL training providers have been removed from the FMCSA registry

The difference between competence, proficiency, and reflexivity in driver training

Why “24-hour CDL” programs undermine safety and transparency

How legitimate programs balance time, quality instruction, and workforce demand

The role of partnerships between carriers and training institutions

Instructor recruitment challenges and the need for experienced drivers in education

Curriculum improvement, simulators, and hands-on learning

Tracking student outcomes and why accountability matters

Missy’s outlook on CDL training, logistics education, and industry reform in the new year

This thoughtful, candid conversation highlights the real work being done by educators, regulators, and industry leaders to raise standards and create the next generation of safe, professional drivers.

Learn more about Pima Community College’s CDL program:

https://pima.edu/driver

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