By Western Nevada College
Saturday, June 25, 2022
Adam Temple wasn’t sure he was cut out for college.
When he entered Western Nevada College’s Higher Education in Prison Program, he expressed concern that he wouldn’t be successful.
As it turns out, “He had nothing to worry about,” said HEPP Director Deb Conrad. “He was a capable student doing excellent work.”
Three-and-a-half years later, Temple is a dual graduate of WNC, having earned his associate degree and completed the college’s Commercial Driver Training program.
He co-owns a thriving construction business, Temple Curtis Industries, LLC.
“We’ve won 90 percent of the bids we’ve submitted so far,” he says beaming with pride.
Temple speaks with the quiet confidence of someone who knows what he has to offer. When asked where it comes from, he credits the HEPP program, sharing that having a degree boosted his self-esteem.
“Once I got my degree, I knew I had a better chance in life,” he said. “Plus, it gave me the technical skills to start my own company within 6 months of being out.”
So, when Temple heard about the Commercial Driver Training program at the college, he knew he could handle it. Upon acceptance into the program, he adjusted his work schedule, working weekends so that he could be in class during the week.
It wasn’t all easy, but Temple is someone who knows he can overcome challenges.
“I really enjoyed learning how to parallel park a big rig. A lot of people don’t know how to parallel park a car, let alone a big rig,” he said.
Temple said getting his education has been life changing.
“Getting your CDL can potentially change the direction of your life; the day I got mine, I had three different job offers. It will give you a career making great money. That’s a game changer for someone.”
The Western Nevada College Commercial Driver Training program is now accepting new students. To learn more, call 775-445-4210, visit www.wnc.edu/commercialdrivers or email conted@wnc.edu.
