2019 key issues: No. 1 Driver shortage

The American Trucking Associations is saying at least 60,000 more commercial drivers are needed immediately to keep America’s trucking industry moving. The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) said the driver shortage is particularly acute in the over-the-road truckload segment, and, despite a softer freight market in 2019, demand for qualified drivers was still high.

ATRI’s proposed strategies for combating the driver shortage include advocating for federal agencies to develop an apprenticeship program that helps attract, train, and retain younger interstate drivers; identifying ways to expand recruitment of women and minorities; and collecting and comparing safety performance data of drivers 18 to 20 years old versus drivers 21 to 24 years old who operate commercial vehicles interstate.

Here are some of the key Bulk Transporter stories in 2019 addressing the driver shortage and recruitment strategies to address the issue:

Trucking companies recruiting women to fill driver shortage

Trucking groups split on pilot program for younger drivers

US Department of Transportation Launches Program to Help Veterans and Reservists Find Jobs in the Trucking Industry