The commercial truck industry has shown substantial growth in recent years and the only way to handle that growth is by employing professionally trained truck drivers. That is why many jobseekers are turning to a new career as a professional truck driver.
For the majority of trucking schools, the only requirements to begin a program is to be at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or the equivalent, have a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record, meet Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, and pass a physical exam and drug screening with the Department of Transportation. All necessary skills for the profession are learned in the short training program. Programs include on-the-job observation and practicing of these new skills so that graduates are well prepared for their careers on the road.
After the completion of a program like the one at Hamrick School, a career in truck driving offers competitive pay and benefits with lots of future incentives for the amount of miles logged, a high safety rating and driving record, and years of service. There are not many professions who can offer quality starting pay and benefits and promise a rapid increase in income without prerequisites or special skills.
The good news is that the trucking industry is holding steady as one of the fastest growing industries in the nation. With the number of jobs needed in the next decade being estimated in the 80,000 to 100,000 range, there is reason to believe that the commercial trucking industry will continue to provide an answer for workers who may lack specialized skills.