A little over a month ago we made a call to everyone in the trucking industry to spread the hashtag #BecomeATruckDriver. There is a severe shortage of truck drivers, which could have devastating effects on the US economy,
The good news for aspiring truck drivers is that wages are going up, so now is a great time to sign up. But unfortunately, many in the trucking industry are asleep at the wheel when it comes to getting this news out.
The Report Card
A new report from the Alabama Media Group titled ” 2018 Roadblocks: What’s Ahead for the Trucking Industry” confirms many of the greatest fears about the shortage.
Here are a few key facts:
- The industry needs to hire 900,000 more drivers over the next decade to meet demand.
- The truck driver shortage could balloon to more than 175,000 by 2024.
- Only 4.4% of drivers are in the 20 to 24-year-old age bracket.
- Only 6% of drivers are women.
- 70% of freight in the US is moved by truck.
So what does that all mean?
It means that as older drivers retire, we’ve got a real problem on our hands. And it means that the industry needs to do a better job of reaching out to younger people and women and sharing the news about what makes truck driving an exciting and challenging career.
Take Action!
If you are a member of the trucking industry – a recruiter, a dispatcher, a trucking company owner, anyone! – spread the hashtag #BecomeATruckDriver to raise awareness.
Use it on your Twitter, your Facebook, and get a tattoo on your forehead. And if people need help, direct them to our guide “Become a Truck Driver“. That’s why we made it!
If you’re a reader who has any interest in becoming a truck driver, great! This career might be for you.