Pictured (left to right): Torry McKinley, Trevor Demei, Coty Pitre, Jacob Baye, Sean Collins, Cherise Thibodaux, Tevin Nelson, Nicole Huffman, Albernisha King, Kevin Anderson, and Charlie Burt, Senior Manager of Development and Public Affairs for Venture Global, pose following the graduation ceremony for Cohort 3 of Fletcher Technical Community College's Commercial Driver's License (CDL) program. The students completed the program through Venture Global's Will to Skill initiative, which provides tuition assistance for workforce training.
Schriever, LA - Fletcher Technical Community College celebrated the graduation of 10 students from Cohort 3 of Venture Global's Will to Skill Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training program on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the Workforce Training Building on the Fletcher Schriever Campus.
Graduates included Kevin Anderson, Jacob Baye, Sean Collins, Trevor Demei, Nicole Huffman, Albernisha King, Torry McKinley, Tevin Nelson, Coty Pitre, and Cherise Thibodaux.
The no-cost training program, funded entirely by Venture Global, provides local residents with the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials and prepare for high-demand careers in the transportation industry. Fletcher is one of several educational partners selected by Venture Global to deliver the training as part of the company's workforce development initiative.
The graduates successfully completed the rigorous CDL training program and are now prepared to pursue employment opportunities throughout the region and beyond.
"Today represents more than completing a training program," said Dr. Carrie Cortez, Fletcher's Vice Chancellor for Academics and Workforce Initiatives. "It represents a commitment you've made to yourself and to your future. The skills you're leaving with today will create opportunities for you for years to come."
Cortez acknowledged the sacrifices and determination required to complete the program, as well as the family members, friends, faculty, and staff who supported the graduates throughout their journey.
"While we all have different journeys and stories, what I know for certain is that we all want to create a better future for ourselves and the people we care about," Cortez said. "Accomplishments like this don't happen alone."
Representing Venture Global was Charlie Burt, Senior Manager of Development and Public Affairs, who emphasized the company's commitment to investing in people and strengthening communities through workforce development.
"One of the greatest investments we can make is in the people in the communities where we operate," Burke said. "When you start investing in people and human capital, you can't put a price tag on it. What we're doing here today is truly life-changing for a lot of people."
Burt noted that the Will to Skill initiative was created to provide free access to training in high-demand career fields with no employment obligations attached.
"This CDL license belongs to them," Burt said. "There are no strings attached. They can take these skills and pursue employment wherever they choose. We are simply proud to help create opportunities that can change lives for individuals and their families."
Since its inception, Venture Global's Will to Skill initiative has provided workforce training opportunities to hundreds of Louisiana residents. Across multiple regions of the state, the company has invested more than $1.5 million in workforce development programming, helping more than 600 individuals gain valuable career skills.
Graduating student Cherice Thibodaux shared how the opportunity removed barriers that once prevented her from pursuing her career goals.
"When I found out I was selected for this program, I was beyond excited," Thibodaux said. "I've always wanted to further my career as a professional driver, but financial limitations kept me from pursuing my goals and dreams. Today means so much to me because this opportunity created possibilities that will impact not only my life, but my family's future as well."
Thibodaux also thanked the instructors and her fellow graduates for their support throughout the program.
"This is more than graduation," she said. "It is a reminder that when someone believes in your potential and you're willing to work, amazing things can happen."
As Fletcher celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026, the graduation reflects the college's long-standing mission of creating pathways to opportunity through education and workforce training.
"For 75 years, Fletcher has been helping individuals gain skills and confidence to open doors to new opportunities that change lives," Cortez said. "Today, these graduates become part of that legacy."
About Fletcher Technical Community College
Fletcher Technical Community College, a member of Louisiana Community and Technical Colleges, is a vital educational resource serving the Bayou Region. The college offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, short-term workforce training, and free adult education programs such as high school equivalency preparation, digital literacy courses, and English language instruction. Fletcher is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education that strengthens Louisiana’s workforce and supports the economic growth of South Louisiana. Visit www.fletcher.edu for more information.