TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) – The Kansas Department of Commerce says the state has more than 1,600 unfilled truck-driving jobs, with the most urgent need in the oil and gas industries.

The agency and its Local Workforce Investment Board Partners have funds available to help qualified applicants take Commercial Driver’s License training through approved providers.

Commerce officials said Wednesday they’re looking into providing training opportunities in Kansas communities with high demand for drivers and adequate interest by potential job-seekers.

Kansas has been experiencing growth in the oil and gas industries as new fields are opened for exploration in the southern counties.