Eight recent Leaving Certificate graduates and six female apprentices are among the fifth intake joining the Transport Operations & Commercial Driving Apprenticeship (CDAP) at ATU Sligo.

The new cohort marks another milestone for the programme, which combines workplace experience with academic learning to prepare apprentices for careers in transport and logistics.

For Irish haulage employers, the apprenticeship offers a structured route to developing drivers with the knowledge and professional competence needed to support safe, compliant transport operations.

The inclusion of school-leavers and female apprentices also highlights the programme’s role in attracting a broader range of entrants into the industry.

More than a driving qualification

Apprentices will undertake training for both rigid and articulated vehicle licences, while developing an understanding of the responsibilities that come with operating commercial vehicles.

The programme covers transport operations and compliance, health and safety management, vehicle roadworthiness and maintenance, driver responsibilities, industry legislation and best practice.

This breadth of training is central to the apprenticeship’s approach. Alongside driving skills, apprentices learn how their decisions and working practices contribute to vehicle safety, operational efficiency and compliance.

Designed by employers for employers, CDAP combines practical workplace experience with academic study, helping apprentices connect their learning with the day-to-day demands of the transport industry.

Employers and mentors play a central role

Participating employers and workplace mentors support apprentices throughout their training, helping them build experience, confidence and professional standards.

In welcoming the fifth cohort, the programme acknowledged the commitment of those businesses and mentors investing in the next generation of transport professionals.

For participating operators, that involvement provides an opportunity to develop new talent within their own businesses while contributing to the industry’s future workforce.

As the latest intake begins its training at ATU Sligo, the focus will be on turning that investment into safe, skilled and knowledgeable commercial drivers, equipped for the wider demands of modern transport operations.