O’Dourghty “Odie” Cunningham
O’Dourghty “Odie” Cunningham is not a traditional SUNY Canton student. Instead of a classroom and lab environment, most of his education takes place behind the wheel of one of the college’s tractor-trailer trucks.
The 22-year-old began driving for his family’s farm in Massena and realized he’d need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to pursue future opportunities, like hauling livestock. He enrolled in the college’s CDL-A program to receive instruction from Ryan Harrigan.
“We have a 1961 Chevy dump truck that's been at the farm for as long as I can remember,” Odie said. “I always heard my father and grandfather talking about upgrading the equipment over the years to have a more efficient farm.”
Odie received financial support from a Cornell Cooperative Extension grant for farms and the Industrial Development Authority’s American Rescue Plan Act funds, allowing him to attend the training.
“This program works with people who have a full-time job and other responsibilities,” he said. “It’s also very flexible and efficient for anyone who wants to acquire their CDL license.”
He said his learning experience so far has been enriching. His driving lessons have increased his knowledge of trucks and trailers, and he's learned about road hazards that require extra attention.
“My next step will be to start looking at bigger trucks to equip the farm better and bring in more income,” Odie said.