Conversations with Lara Dowdy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lara Dowdy

Hi Lara, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2006, the transportation industry was booming with many trucking companies at a shortage, and at the same time in Michigan too many hardworking individuals found themselves at a dead end. Families struggled to make ends meet, veterans returned home searching for stability, and countless others longed for a second chance. Seeing the growing need for reliable, well-trained truck drivers in an industry facing a massive shortage, we decided as a family to step forward and make a difference.

That vision became Suburban Truck Driver Training School—a place where determination met opportunity. From the very beginning, the mission was clear: provide top-quality CDL training that not only secured jobs but paved the way for lifelong success. Built on the core values of inclusion, safety, family, financial freedom, and teamwork, the school was more than just a place to learn; it became a community dedicated to helping people turn their goals into reality.

With strong partnerships across Michigan, Suburban Truck Driver Training School collaborated with Michigan Works, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Corrections, and Veterans Affairs. These partnerships allowed the school to extend its reach, offering opportunities to those who needed them most—veterans looking for a fresh start, previously incarcerated individuals working to rebuild their lives, and anyone determined to create a better future through a stable and rewarding career.

Through hard work and dedication, the school has since helped thousands of students obtain their CDL licenses, offering lifetime job placement assistance and connecting graduates with an industry eager for skilled drivers. Over the years, the classrooms have been filled with stories of perseverance, ambition, and success. Each graduate represents not just an individual achievement but the fulfillment of a promise—one that Suburban Truck Driver Training School made on day one and continues to honor with every student who walks through its doors.

None of this would be possible without our incredible instructors. Their dedication, skills, knowledge, and patience are the foundation of our success. They go above and beyond to ensure that each student receives the training and support they need to excel in the trucking industry, shaping the next generation of professional drivers with their expertise and commitment.

What started as a family-owned business with a mission has become a cornerstone of opportunity in the trucking industry. And as long as there are people ready to take the wheel toward a brighter future, Suburban Truck Driver Training School will be there, guiding the way.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any business, we have faced challenges along the way. The 2008 financial crisis tested our resilience, as economic uncertainty made it difficult for many to invest in their futures. At that time a few trucking companies helped us with stable partnerships and contracts that helped students afford training. Then, in 2020, the global pandemic forced us to close our doors for months, creating one of the most difficult periods in our history. Yet, in both instances, we persevered—thanks to our dedicated staff, our unwavering optimism, and the incredible strength of the trucking industry. Through it all, we remained committed to our mission, knowing that the need for skilled truck drivers would always endure.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Being the School Director at Suburban Truck Driver Training School allows me to make a meaningful impact on the students lives. Every day we get to encourage and help students take the first step to their new and rewarding career. Suburban TDTS contributes to changing their lives and giving them the opportunity for financial freedom and professional growth.

I am also fortunate to be able to work each day with our team of admissions counselors and instructors. Working together gives us the ability to work as a team and collectively provide quality training. Seeing our students graduate is a great accomplishment for both the team, students and the transportation industry.

We love to help the students succeed and our dedicated to their success!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://suburbancdl.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suburbancdl/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suburbancdl
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@suburbancdl7555