News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SVCC Alumnus Phillip Rowe Shares How Determination and Training Launched His Trucking Career
Phillip Rowe’s journey into the trucking industry began with determination, family influence, and a clear goal—one he pursued immediately after graduating high school. A graduate of Southside Virginia Community College’s Truck Driver Training Program in February 2009, Rowe credits SVCC with giving him the skills, confidence, and safety foundation needed to build a successful career.
Rowe chose SVCC because it was close to home and had strong reviews. As a student, he traveled from Jetersville to the Southside Virginia Education Center in Emporia, often riding with an instructor to attend class. By his third day in class, Rowe already knew the type of truck he wanted to drive—naming it as a personal goal early in his training.
Coming straight out of high school at just 18 years old, Rowe paid for his tuition out of pocket using graduation money. His motivation was deeply personal. His father was a truck driver, and knowing that parallel parking would be required in class, Rowe asked his dad to teach him ahead of time. After mastering the skill, he returned to class and even helped demonstrate parallel parking to his peers.
Rowe’s training emphasized safety, discipline, and persistence—lessons that stayed with him throughout his career. Instructor Doug Kemerer influenced his decision to pursue flatbed trucking, helping him identify the path that best matched his interests and strengths.
“SVCC taught me a lot, especially the safety I needed,” Rowe said. “When I owned my own truck, I understood regulations and driving hours because of that training.”
After selling his truck, Rowe went on to work at Pro Seal, where he currently drives an 18-speed truck and operates a lowboy, transporting heavy equipment. His role also includes driving a water truck, operating a Bobcat, and assisting in the shop, showcasing the versatility and work ethic he developed early in his career.
Despite balancing work, family responsibilities, and becoming a father at a young age, Rowe never let barriers stand in the way of achieving his goals.
More than a decade later, Rowe experienced a full-circle moment when he returned to SVCC’s Occupational Technical Center in Blackstone, this time not as a student, but as a professional helping repave the very truck driving training course where his journey began.
“This was the best thing I ever did,” he said. “I’d recommend this school to anyone willing to work for their goals.”
Rowe’s story is a testament to what focus, persistence, and quality training can achieve. His message to others is simple: reach for your goals, work hard, and don’t let obstacles stop you from pursuing your dream career.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in truck driving, contact Suzanne Shook 434-292-3101 or by email suzanne.shook@southside.edu.
Classes in Blackstone begin January 12, 2026, and classes in South Boston begin January 20. Visit southside.edu/truck-driver-training for additional information.
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