Experts say that younger drivers are needed in the trucking industry

Experts say that the trucking industry is experiencing a driver shortage, due to an aging workforce, a rebounding economy and new federal safety rules.

Analysts predict that the new compliance standards of electronic on-board recorders and hours of service could result in higher costs for trucking firms and for the companies whose products they carry, which could trickle down to the consumer.

However, some states are cutting through those challenges and are experiencing increases in their workforce. For example, Nebraska and Iowa are seeing an upward trend partly because of changes in the agriculture industry. But, most companies are still finding it challenging to hire people in their 20s and 30s.

“One of the reasons why Nebraska has so many trucking companies in the state is because we've had a source of drivers,” said Larry Johnson, the president of the Nebraska Trucking Association. “And that source was typically kids that grow up on a farm [and] who are very mechanically inclined."

Online CDL training may help individuals who work full-time receive the proper education to launch a career in trucking driving. These programs offer students information on trucking safety and trucker health.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in the trucking industry are expected to increase by 11 percent over the next seven years.

Experts say that younger drivers are needed in the trucking industry

Tuesday, February 15th, 2011