If you’ve worked in agriculture, then you understand commitment, physical labor, and long days. Those same qualities are exactly what the trucking industry values in its drivers. Thanks to the National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP), Missouri residents with agricultural backgrounds now have access to career training that opens doors to a more stable and better-paying future.
MTC Truck Driving Training ‘s schools in Cape Girardeau, MO and Park Hills, MO are now eligible to accept NFJP grants. That means your experience in agriculture can serve as a strong foundation for a professional truck driving career. Read on to learn more about CDL Training Grants for Missouri Farmworkers.
What is the National Farmworker Jobs Program?
The National Farmworker Jobs Program, or NFJP, is a federally funded program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. It is designed to help farmworkers and their family members gain access to better employment opportunities outside of seasonal or temporary agricultural work.
- The program provides support in several areas, including:
- Job training programs, such as CDL training
- Career and educational counseling
- Financial assistance for training and related costs
- Job placement and follow-up support
- Support services like transportation, housing, and childcare
In Missouri, local workforce development partners help deliver these services and connect eligible individuals with training providers like MTC.
How to Qualify for a NFJO Grant?
You do not have to currently be working in agriculture to qualify. In fact, eligibility is more inclusive than many people realize.
You may qualify for NFJP assistance in Missouri if you meet any of the following:
- You have performed seasonal or temporary agricultural work in the past two years, including activities like planting, harvesting, or processing crops
- You worked in industries such as poultry, livestock, or aquaculture
- You are a dependent, spouse, or immediate family member of someone who qualifies as a farmworker
- You meet the income guidelines for low-income households
- You are legally authorized to work in the United States
This means that even if you personally never worked in the fields, but your parent or spouse did, you could still be eligible for NFJP funding.
For example, if your father worked in poultry processing or your mother worked in a seasonal harvest job, you could apply for training assistance through their connection to agriculture.
Why Truck Driving Is a Strong Career Choice for Farmworkers
Transitioning from agricultural labor to professional trucking is more natural than you might think. Both require discipline, physical stamina, independence, and long hours. However, truck driving often offers a better work-life balance, higher wages, and more stability.
Here’s why trucking is a smart next step:
- Strong, stable industry with many job opportunities
- Opportunities to increase pay. Entry-level truck drivers can earn between $76,000 and $95,000/per year.*
- It takes only 3-4 weeks to get a CDL, allowing you to start a new career quickly.
How MTC Supports Your Career Transition
MTC Truck Driving Training ‘s schools in Cape Girardeau,MO and Park Hills, MO are now eligible to accept NFJP grants.
CDL Program Features at MTC:
- Class A CDL Training with additional Hazmat endorsement available
- Hands-on instruction from experienced drivers
- Small class sizes for personal attention
- Employment assistance upon graduation
Campus Locations:
Cape Girardeau: 1732 N Kingshighway St, Cape Girardeau, MO
Park Hills: 1411 E Main St, Park Hills, MO
By using your NFJP grant, much of your training cost may be covered, and you’ll have access to career support every step of the way.
Get Started
To get started fill out the form below and a Career Specialist will be in touch to review program eligibility, training program, and job opportunities.
*Pay information based on ATA Compensation Study
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is NFJP a loan or a grant?
It is a grant. You do not have to repay the money used for training or support services.
Can my family members apply if I worked in agriculture?
Yes. Immediate family members, such as spouses or children, may be eligible based on your agricultural employment history.
Do I need a high school diploma or GED to start CDL training?
No you do not need a GED to qualify for CDL training.
What if I’m not sure I qualify?
It’s worth checking. Many people assume they won’t qualify, our Career Specialists can walk you through the process and confirm eligibility and explore other tuition assistance options.