Overcoming Barriers: Julio Gomez Finds Success Behind the Wheel

When Julio Gomez graduated from High Plains Technology Center’s CDL program, he was ready to hit the road — but one major obstacle stood in his way: most companies wouldn’t insure drivers under 21 years old.

Despite having the skills, drive, and credentials to begin his career, Julio faced the same challenge many young CDL graduates experience. Federal law allows drivers 18 and older to hold a commercial driver’s license, but they are restricted to driving only within state lines. On top of that, many insurance companies refuse to fully cover drivers under 21, making it difficult for companies to hire them.

That’s where Woodward Steel stepped up.

The company saw Julio’s strong work ethic and commitment and decided to give him a chance. Although the insurance company required periodic reviews of his driving record until he turned 21, Woodward Steel went the extra mile to employ him and support his growth. Now that Julio has reached 21, he’s fully cleared to drive across state lines — and his employer couldn’t be prouder.

“Julio is a hard worker and a valuable member of our team,” said Shane Waggoner, Woodward Steel management. “He’s dependable, always willing to lend a hand, and has a great attitude.”

Julio’s journey with HPTC began long before his CDL training. As a high school student, he was part of HPTC’s Service Careers program, designed to help students with unique learning needs develop hands-on skills, confidence, and independence. Through that experience, Julio discovered his strengths and built the foundation that later prepared him for CDL training.

At HPTC, every CDL student receives the training and guidance needed to master both the classroom material and the driving skills required for success. The program emphasizes safety, professionalism, and real-world readiness — helping students graduate with their CDL in just five weeks for $4,300.

HPTC currently offers four to five CDL training sessions each year and has already trained more than 150 licensed drivers since its first class graduated on February 10, 2023. The next class with available spots begins April 13, 2026.

This training is offered through a partnership with Central Technology Center, which serves as the statewide consortium provider for Oklahoma’s CareerTech CDL training programs. (Learn more about Central Tech CDL Training at the following link https://tdt.centraltech.edu/truck-driver-training/.)

In addition to making CDL training accessible to citizens across Northwest Oklahoma, HPTC takes it a step further by covering the full cost of CDL training for students who have completed the two-year Diesel Technology program. This unique initiative — the only one of its kind among Oklahoma technology centers — provides graduates with a valuable professional certification that strengthens their career options and offers a lifelong skill.

“The CDL program was a good experience,” Julio said. “It really helped guide me to where I am now. I like working at Woodward Steel and appreciate the opportunity they gave me.”

Julio’s story is a powerful reminder that success takes partnership — between determined students, supportive employers, and schools willing to go the extra mile. Together, they’re breaking barriers and paving the way for future drivers ready to keep Oklahoma’s workforce moving forward.

And that partnership extends far beyond one program. At HPTC, early exposure to CareerTech pathways helps students discover their strengths and step into high-demand careers right here in Northwest Oklahoma. Our key postsecondary offerings — Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), Wind Energy, Phlebotomy, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Certified Medication Aide (CMA), and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training — provide clear, affordable routes to meaningful work close to home.

When public schools, technology centers, and business & industry align, we grow our own talent, meet local workforce needs, and help our communities flourish. Julio’s journey is one example among many of how coordinated training and real-world opportunity change lives — and strengthen Northwest Oklahoma’s future.

Looking ahead, HPTC remains committed to closing the skills gap and expanding postsecondary opportunities, ensuring that more students can gain the training and credentials needed to fill vital jobs across the region. By continuing to listen to industry needs and innovate our offerings, HPTC is building a stronger workforce for tomorrow — one student, one partnership, and one success story at a time.

For more information or to enroll in HPTC’s CDL training, contact Tammy Kelln at tkelln@hptc.edu or 580-571-6159.

For more information about all HPTC programs, visit hptc.edu or follow us on social media at High Plains Technology Center.