77-year-old shows it's never too late; enrolling as first-time college student

THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WFXL) — It's never too late to do something you love.

Bill Nichols, 77, has enrolled in a commercial driver's license (CDL) program after more than three decades of seeing the nation from the air.

Forty-two years ago, Nicholsstudied under a flight instructor to earn his pilot’s license and continued to a 35-year career as a corporate pilot. He enjoyed seven years of retirement but after seeing a need for CDL drivers across the nation, he decided he might be able to help out.

"[The trucking industry] has about a 18,000 to 20,000 driver shortage, so I figured I can help out somebody somewhere, doing something for the country," said Nichols.

Once his mind was made up, it didn't take long for Nichols to take action. He registered for the course and began classes atSouthern Regional Technical College in Thomasville, Georgia.

Now, he'll be seeing the nation from the roadways.

His wife and children expect nothing less from their busiest family member. "My family is tickled to death," said Nichols. "My grandson calls me every other day; checks on me to see how my school's going."

Those check-ins are quite necessary, seeing as Nichols is also a flight instructor and currently helping five students receive their wings.

Nichols is confident every role he has taken on is for the greater good. He hopes to show people anything can be done if they want it bad enough.

"Anyone can do whatever they want to do. I mean just set your mind to it. Say 'I want to do this' and do it," said Nichols.

That is exactly what Nichols has done. He is on track to complete his CDL course in the upcoming months. He hopes to get a job soon after he’s licensed and lend a helping hand to any truck company in need.