What is a MELT Program?
MELT stands for mandatory entry-level training. In July of 2017, Ontario became the first province to require that truck drivers complete a MELT Program before they could take the test to receive their Class A license. Other provinces however soon began to follow suit with Alberta most recently requiring it on March 1st of 2019.
MELT was introduced largely due to the fact that there were many shady truck driving schools out there that were doing an inadequate job of preparing students for careers as truck drivers. Students may have been able to pass their road tests, but they really weren’t equipped for the day to day of handling a commercial vehicle. Standardized MELT programs must be approved by the provincial transportation ministry and must include a minimum of 103.5 hours of classroom and in cab training.
Truck driving schools like Trukademy that were already meeting or exceeding MELT standards, welcomed the change.
Mandatory subjects covered in the MELT program include basic driving techniques, professional driving habits, cargo securement, documentation and regulatory compliance and handling emergencies to name a few.
The purpose of MELT is to ensure the highest levels of safety and professionalism in the trucking industry, which is hoped will allow more people to choose trucking as a career.
The benefits of MELT
MELT programs help prepare new truck drivers for a career in the trucking industry. Since the training is extensive, employers can feel confident that they are hiring drivers who have been thoroughly trained in the safe and efficient operation of their vehicle. When students choose a trucking school that has a MELT program, they can feel confident that they will be getting the training necessary to excel in their careers.
Concerns about MELT
While most agree that overall, the introduction of MELT Programs is a good thing, there is some concern that it will make training more expensive and possibly discourage some students from entering the trucking industry. Fortunately, there are many government programs available to assist students in this area including Second Career, WSIB, Ontario Works as well as funding programs to help aboriginal students. Employers who wish to get the training for their emp loyees may apply for funding through Canada Jobs Grants.
If you are considering a career in the trucking industry and want to get the training necessary to obtain your Class A license, contact Trukademy today and ask about our MELT programs.
