CVTA Leadership Discusses Upholding Training Integrity on Trucking with OOIDA

Chairman Jeff Burkhardt and Executive Director Andrew Poliakoff Representing CVTA on the OOIDA Podcast

As national discussions intensify around English-language proficiency and non-domiciled CDL issuance, one issue remains central: driver training. Recently, CVTA Chairman Jeff Burkhardt and Executive Director Andrew Poliakoff joined the Trucking with OOIDA podcast to discuss the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in commercial driver education.

During the conversation, Burkhardt and Poliakoff emphasized that comprehensive training and consistent enforcement are the foundation of a safer, stronger driver workforce. They explored the implementation of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements, the role of the Training Provider Registry (TPR), and ongoing efforts to eliminate “CDL mills” that undermine safety and professionalism across the industry.

The discussion also highlighted the critical role CVTA and its members play in ensuring every student receives instruction that meets or exceeds federal standards. As federal and state agencies increase oversight, CVTA remains committed to accountability, integrity, and collaboration—working alongside FMCSA, state partners, and industry stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the CDL system.

These efforts reinforce CVTA’s enduring mission: advancing professional driver education that strengthens public safety and preserves the credibility of the commercial driving profession