With high demand and supply chain challenges expected to continue through most of the year, recruiting and retention are expected to be a big focus to keep the industry moving forward. Here are few trends to keep an eye on this year.
1. Training
In 2021, there was a huge surge in demand for training. Fleets that hadn’t trained in the past, or stopped training due to driver supply, bought back their training programs. But it hasn’t been a smooth process. The COVID-19 pandemic caused delays in license and learners permit issuing, a limited number of students that schools can accommodate due to social distancing and new entry-level driver training standards. This year, companies that didn’t previously provide training programs are likely to start. With that, however, comes the need to provide better conditions, support and resources for trainers.
2. Trucking as a First-Choice Career
You can expect to see more effort this year to make trucking a first-choice career. Some organizations have already been working on this. For example, Women in Trucking Association (WIT) unveiled its Driver Ambassador Trailer to travel the country and introduce the career of professional truck driving and personal success stories from female drivers. The idea behind the mission is to encourage women to join the industry and promote their accomplishments.
Related to this trend, is a focus on new routes, relays, team drivers and other opportunities to shorten the time drivers are away from home. This will not only improve retention but make trucking a potential career for people who might be interested if they aren’t on the road as often.
3. Career Advancement
By starting drivers out in smaller vehicles that don’t require a CDL, fleets can provide training and support for them to get their Class A CDL and advance in their career path. Career advancement means new opportunities and more pay but varies from driver to driver. Some drivers may want to stay in a traditional driving occupation, while others might be looking for a non-traditional driving career.
The best thing a company can do is be diverse and ensure opportunities are available to advance, not only for prospective drivers looking to join the company, but internal employees, too.