(PHOTO: SWIFT TRANSPORTATION)
Drivers at Swift Transportation, a subsidiary of Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. (NYSE: KNX), now have the opportunity to earn college degrees online through Southern New Hampshire University’s College for America program. Swift announced that the company will cover tuition costs for drivers and eligible dependents as part its Drive for a Degree program earlier this week.
“This is an important program for our drivers and their families. We are excited to partner with SNHU to help drivers achieve their educational goals,” Swift COO Kevin Quast said. “Providing a tuition free degree can be life changing for many families, and Swift is committed to investing in the development of our people, in their families and in our country’s future.”
Swift began conducting pilot educational programs in 2017, eventually leading to the Drive for a Degree program as it exists today. The program began implementation in August. Thanks to its all-online nature, drivers and their dependents can complete courses from wherever they may be, at their own pace, according to a media release. Swift also provides program participants with a laptop, monthly WiFi credit and all required course materials and textbooks.
“I’ve been a truck driver for Swift for about seven years, and I always like to reach the goals I set for myself,” Swift driver Jodi said in a media release. “My goal was to be a mentor, an owner and to go to college. I just thank Swift for the help and the chance to be better, and I’m grateful for having this opportunity and helping me succeed.”
Jodi was the first Swift driver to enroll in the Drive for a Degree program at SNHU and is earning a degree in business, according to the release.
“We are proud to be working with the Swift Transportation to offer low-cost degree programs to thousands of working adults across the nation,” SNHU Director of Strategic Partnerships Kelly Houston said. “Our hope is that this partnership will allow Swift Transportation employees and their families to develop workforce-relevant skills and reach their educational goals.”
SNHU describes its College for America program as a “set of degrees designed to meet the needs of the frontline workforce with approachable, competency-based learning.”
As part of the partnership with SNHU, Swift drivers and eligible dependents will have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree or a certificate. Areas of concentration include communications, management, healthcare, business, public administration, logistics and operations, insurance services and general studies.
Swift will cover tuition costs in full for drivers and one eligible dependent. After the first dependent, additional eligible dependents may participate in the program at a discounted self-pay rate.
Drivers and their dependents are eligible to participate in the program if the driver is employed at Swift full-time, has completed 200 hours with a Swift mentor and has been a solo or team company driver for at least 30 days or 10,000 miles. Program participants must possess a high school diploma or GED.