What is Jackson Snelling The Voice Up to Now?

At just 21 years old, Jackson Snelling of Austin, Indiana, has already carved out an impressive career as an accomplished singer-songwriter and pianist. Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Jackson captured the nation’s attention as a contestant on NBC’s The Voice Season 24, joining the inaugural Team Reba, and as a 2021 American Idol contestant, where he performed before a national audience. His talent has earned him numerous accolades, including the Male Vocalist of the Year 2023 Award at The Josie Music Awards Show held at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, and the 2021 Entertainer of the Year Fan Choice Award. With that impressive resume, Jackson added another feather in his cap when he completed his CDL training from Truck Driver Institute. We catch up with the alumni, asking about his music industry career, and how he has been since completing the program. 

What made him decide to come to truck driving school?

When asked why he decided to attend truck driving school, Jackson’s first thought goes to his mom. She had gone through truck driving school herself, and although it was tough for her, she always emphasized that having those skills could be a valuable backup plan. She mentioned that if he ever needed to, he could drive his own tour bus. Taking her advice turned out to be one of the best decisions he ever made.

During his time in the program, Jackson made some incredible new friends—Jackson, Jerry, and Jason. Just today, he experienced a moment that truly highlighted the value of those connections. He was on the side of the road with his aunt, dealing with a ruptured tire. He hadn’t seen any of his classmates in months, but his aunt remarked how cool it would be if they saw them and helped out. Amazingly, Jackson and Jason drove by and pulled over to help them change the tire. It was a great moment, reminding Jackson of the lifelong friendships he built there. He is incredibly grateful for those friends and the instructors who made it all possible.

How has it been going since graduation? 

Since graduating from truck driving school, Jackson Snelling has been spending time in Nashville, primarily focusing on his music career. He has been writing a lot of new songs and is about to release his next single, “Dear Whiskey,” around the beginning of June. This will be his first release since *The Voice*, and it is a deep, storytelling song that he is proud of.

Although Jackson hasn’t actively used his CDL yet, attending TDI has benefited him in numerous ways—he has gained valuable friends, experiences, knowledge, and the ability to drive his tour bus whenever needed. He is also opening for John Michael Montgomery on May 31 in Ohio, which is a huge honor as it’s part of Montgomery’s farewell tour and Jackson’s first time opening for a country legend. This show is extraordinary for Jackson because he was adopted from the county where the event is taking place.

Jackson is passionate about supporting kids in the foster care system, a cause close to his heart since both he and his brother were adopted by their mom. He often performs at Boys and Girls Haven and works to raise awareness about foster care issues. He is bringing TDI merchandise to the show in Ohio to share with kids graduating out of foster care, encouraging them to consider opportunities like TDI. For the past few years, Jackson has been dedicated to charity work for the foster system and will continue to help whenever and wherever he can.

Learn More About TDI

Jackson Snelling’s music career continues to keep him busy, however, he earned his CDL while breaking into the business. The Truck Driver’s Institute has flexible options for you to pursue your license at over 10 campuses, in seven states. Learn more about our program and your opportunities with TDI, today!