Founded in 2014 by Jeff Shellenberger, Shelly Truck Driving School operates out of York, PA and provides the increasingly competitive trucking industry with experienced, professional drivers by offering high-quality training for individuals who want to begin their career in trucking. Although the school would be classified as a small business by most standards, it has a strong presence in the area and is an important fixture in the central Pennsylvania trucking industry.
Jeff Shellenberger grew up in the world of trucking – his father founded S&H Express, Inc. in 1982 and Jeff focused on learning every aspect of the industry. That experience led Shellenberger to instill a family-focus at Shelly Truck Driving School. According to Executive Director Dominick Grossi, Shellenberger “never misses the smallest detail” and is “impossible to bullshit.”
When it comes to training students, the school’s leadership considers industry norms and Federal regulations to be the floor instead of the ceiling. Shellenberger and Grossi want drivers to be completely comfortable when they hit the road – in every sense – beyond just technical training. For example, there are fuel pumps at their training facility so student drivers can practice fueling before they’re on the road at a commercial gas station.
Grossi exudes a love for the trucking industry and his students. He explained that recruiting and retaining excellent trainers are essential to his business practices. In a time when the industry is experiencing a shortage of CDL trainers, Grossi has essentially no turnover, which he attributes to fair pay and an exceptionally family-friendly work environment. Each of his instructors has a specialty within the business. “That means they are essential components to the school and understand the importance of their role on our team.”
Apart from an occasional radio ad, Shelly Truck Driving School does not advertise. They rely on word of mouth and reputation and have never had an issue recruiting students. That doesn’t mean they will accept anyone! On the contrary, the school is selective about who they enroll and works to ensure that accepted students are a good fit for the program. Students are exceptionally loyal as a result. One trainee explained that that he has “never doubted” that he made the correct choice when he picked Shelly Truck Driving School for his CDL license training. He also stated that the quality of training and camaraderie is unmatched, and he is proud to be part of the program.
During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Shellenberger woke up at 2:00 am to cook a pancake breakfast for drivers. But his appreciation is on display year-round. During COVID, he made sure his employees maintained a consistent salary. He keeps track of the school’s graduates and celebrates their professional successes. “We train for the CDL test and for creating a quality work-life balance,” Shellenberger stated when he was describing his approach. Running a small business is never an easy task as they are often the first to feel economic hits, overburdensome regulations, and government red tape. However, Shellenberger and Grossi are never worried by the changing landscape because they know the quality of the school speaks for itself and they understand the importance of their role in the community.
For more information on Shelly Truck Driving Schools or obtaining a CDL, please visit their website or call 717-743-5591.