How to Solve the Nation's Truck Driver Shortage?

by Jana Ritter - Published: 8/26/2014

The truck driver shortage is again driving the top news headlines across the US and instead of simply just reporting it, more efforts are being made to solve what is becoming more crucial to the nation’s economy. How to recruit and retain a new generation of truck drivers?

While the problem was somewhat masked during the recent recession, the recovering U.S. economy and increased trucking volumes has magnified the shortage to the point it can no longer be ignored and must be solved. According to the American Trucking Associations the industry now has approximately 30,000 to 35,000 unfilled truck driver jobs and the numbers are only continuing to increase as older drivers retire.

Serious efforts are being made by the trucking industry to prevent a more severe driver drought, starting with recruiting practices and driving schools. While many student drivers are securing jobs even before graduating with commercial driving licenses, military veterans are being specifically invited to make the transition into a trucking career.

It’s also no longer a secret that today’s generation of truck drivers aren't as keen on long-haul driving and in addition to companies trying to accommodate more regular schedules, the industry is really pushing towards making more efficient truck models with fancier cabins that feature the comforts of home. For example, new designs ideas are being created for trucks to have ergonomic kitchenettes that allow drivers to cook their own meals. Another design idea includes a structure within the truck to transport pets, complete with a water jug, harness and gate.

While these modernized trucks also have better technology to help drivers communicate in real time and new diagnostic tools to allow remote monitoring of trucks, the biggest major change is the shift to automatic transmissions. "New drivers don't want to drive stick shifts. Automatic trucks were unheard of a few years ago," ATA's Costello says.

But the industry realizes that at the end of day the key to attracting truck drivers is the pay. According to reports from the ATA and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average truck driver annual incomes was just under $50,000 last year, already up 28 percent from the year 2000. It’s also reported that specialized drivers hauling dangerous materials over long distances can earn around $70,000 and up.

"This is a job where wages will continue to go up because drivers are in demand," Costello said. "But it is a lifestyle commitment."

Kerry Contas, a regional driver for Jetco Delivery, represents the type of truck driver who fully embraces the lifestyle. "I like being on the road. You turn the radio on and just go. And I don't have a boss that's right behind me. As long as you do your job right, there's no problem. The more you know, the more you make," Contas says.

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