For over half a century, Freymilller has worked to cultivate a legacy of professionalism, integrity, and excellence in the transportation sector. The family-owned and operated company was initially established in Wisconsin. The later moved to California before eventually settling in Oklahoma, a state focused on the support of the trucking industry.
The company was so appreciative of the support they received in Oklahoma, founder, Don Freymiller, and CEO, David Freymiller, put their heads together to develop a plan that would benefit the state, advance the workforce, and address the truck driver shortage.
The company quickly got to work and after several meetings with Oklahoma CareerTech, the Oklahoma Department of Correctoins, Governor Stitt, and Central Technology Center, the idea became a reality.
Beginning in 2019, Freymiller partner with Central Tech, a statewide truck diving school to complete the educational compontent of their ambitious plan. With this partnership, the Second Chance Program was born. The initiative focuses on transitioning justice-involved individuals to life after incarceration with the goal of breaking the cycle of re-incarceration.
Statistically, individuals who enroll in postsecondary programs are 48% less likely to be reincarcerated than those who do not, making education a recognized way to reduce recidivism.
With Central Tech already having several years of experience working with incarcerated individuals, the school received approval from the Department of Corrections to train justice-involved individuals in truck driving. Upon successfully completing the Central Tech Truck Driver Training Course and obtaining their Class A CDL, students are equipped with an employable skill in a highly sought-after field.
Through the Second Chance Program, Freymiller and Central Tech positively impact lives and provide a pool of drivers to then industry. To date, 156 justice-involved individuals have obtained their Class A CDL through the Central Tech Truck Driver Training Course. Of those trainees, 49 have been employed with Freymiller. An additional 30 are waiting release and their opportunity to pursue a career as a professional truck driver. Whether the graduates join Freymiller or another trucking company, they can access to a lucrative trade and have the opportunity to pursue a path towards success.
The Second Chance Program is a testament to Freymiller’s commitment to making a difference in the communities they serve, and providing opportunities to those whose opportunities may be limited, and enriching lives through the power of education.
For their hard work and dedication to lifting others, Freymiller was recently honored as Central Technology Center’s 2023 Partner in Progress. In addition, the company is set to receive a Citation of Recognition from the Oklahoma State Senate, the presentation of which is set to take place in front of the entire legislation of the Oklahoma Senate Floor in and upcoming ceremony.
Sources: Central Tech, Freymiller
