Younger drivers sought after by truck carriers

Drivers of all ages are wanted by commercial truck carriers across the country, but trucking firms are especially interested in younger drivers to help meet the demand that is being caused by thousands of current drivers entering retirement.

According to the Transport Capital Partners’ Fourth Quarter 2012 Business Expectations survey, 80 percent of commercial truck carriers said they would be willing to hire younger drivers that had professional training. Carriers are desperate to find quality truck drivers, especially those with professional training, such as students at Hamrick School’s CDL training program.

“Most carriers know that turnover levels have doubled since the recession, which has continued to negatively impact our industry,” said Richard Mikes, TCP Partner. “Driver attraction and retention will continue to be an important issue for carriers.”

The survey shows more good news for truck drivers as 66 percent of truck carriers said they expect wages will increase up to 5 percent this year. Almost 80 percent of commercial truck carriers expect that wages will increase in the next year.

At Hamrick School, students are being prepared for a bright and long-term career as a professional truck driver. The demand for drivers is high, but the majority of carriers are looking for drivers with experience and professional CDL training, and Hamrick School is helping to create the next generation of American truck drivers.