Georgia’s First Black Female Owned CDL School Michelle Harris is Changing Lives
Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Harris-Deadwiler .
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
My name is Michelle Harris-Deadwiler I am the first black woman owned cdl school in the state of Georgia. I used to be shy to say that but over the years I have come to realize it’s my truth so you can’t be afraid of truth.
I always say my childhood is what prepared me for this path. We grew up in the projects like we was the photo for growing up in the ghetto, but I learned how to survive the ghetto and those survival instincts is what I use today in this industry, and that is what makes me so valuable is my survival instincts. My childhood also gives me the ability to connect with my clients and that’s what makes our school one of the best In Georgia.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Owning a cdl school is hardwork itself without adding the fact I’m a woman. It has its ups and downs but it’s so worth it.
I have had to learn to speak up in such a male dominated industry but because I’m a woman it must be done with poise. I have had to learn to balance being a woman here but also a black woman in this.
You got to remember we offer a service and just like any service it must be something the people need and you must be able to prove they need it. For me I felt in order to price this I needed to know what was going on all the time in my community so I really have to juggle bring the ceo and the community activist also.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
What we do is simple yet complicated. We train students to get their Clp and Cdl. Commercial learners permit and commercial drivers license.
We are really the best to be honest. But we are the best cause we care. We are concerned about the student as a whole. What I mean by that is sometimes I have to be momma in order to get our students to focus. One of the unique things about us is we have a graduation party after each class and celebrate each student success with cap and gown and all. And the people love it. We don’t just train our students for a cdl we train them for live on the road we prepare them with real life situations.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
My best advice for success is you must have Grit. You must survive at all cost and in order to do this you must know your why. Why did you start this business. Know that answer and that answer will hold you when no one else is around.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Doing what you love to do everyday and making money from something you love to do that’s success
What’s next for you?
More franchise opportunities and helping more women of color get into this trillion dollar industry. And my new school in South Africa
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
Follow me on all social media platforms at 3riverstruckingschool.
Check out our website www.3riverstruckingschool.net