09/20/2026
RTTC Staff Attend National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS) Regional Conference
Marcus Deree, Manager of the Regional Transportation Training Center (RTTC) at Hawkeye, recently traveled to Chicago alongside Mary Fontes to represent the program at the National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS) Regional Conference. Hosted by Olive-Harvey College, this key industry event brought together public transportation educators from across the region to collaborate on the future of commercial driver education and share cost-effective training strategies.
Commercial driving is an ever-evolving field, requiring educational institutions to continuously update their methods to meet new safety standards and technological advances. NAPFTDS plays a crucial role by allowing public educators to network, evaluate new tools, and stay ahead of industry shifts. By participating in these regional events, Hawkeye ensures its curriculum remains at the forefront of the transportation industry.
During the event, Marcus focused on evaluating new administrative tools and strengthening relationships with core vendors.
Innovative Software Solutions
A major takeaway from the conference was the introduction of new training and administrative software designed specifically for commercial driving programs. These digital platforms offer promising ways to streamline operations, improve how instructors track student progress, and modernize the overall daily management of the RTTC.
Bumper to Bumper Online Theory
The conference provided an excellent opportunity to meet directly with the team behind Bumper to Bumper. Marcus engaged in in-depth discussions regarding their comprehensive online theory program. They explored new methods to maximize this digital coursework, ensuring it seamlessly supports Hawkeye's classroom instruction and helps students master complex regulatory and safety concepts before they ever get behind the wheel.
Virage Simulation Upgrades
Virtual training remains a cornerstone of safe, risk-free driver preparation. While physical simulators were not set up on the exhibition floor, strategic meetings with Virage Simulation representatives mapped out the latest software and hardware upgrades available for Hawkeye's current systems. These enhancements will allow students to practice navigating hazardous weather and complex traffic scenarios using the most cutting-edge virtual technology available.
Attending the NAPFTDS Regional Conference reinforces Hawkeye's commitment to delivering top-tier commercial driving instruction. The insights and industry connections brought back will be instrumental in keeping the RTTC equipped with the best curriculum and technology to prepare the next generation of safe, highly skilled drivers on the road.
