Beaverdam, Ohio -
A shortage in truck drivers is leading to delays in deliveries. According to the American Trucking Association, older drivers are looking at retirement, while younger generations have no interest in the truck driving lifestyle.
Helping to fight the problem, truck driving schools such as Apollo Career Center, that help to put trained drivers on the road. Nate Wells returned from military service and faced unemployment. With a passion for driving and a need for a sustainable career, Wells looked to truck driving which starts with a salary around 38 thousand dollars. It turns out hands on learning is exactly what Nate needed after a difficulty with online training programs.
Helping to train Nate and other drivers, Apollo's Jim Rosen works directly with companies that hire his students. Take TMC and Trans Am for example; both companies have agreed to pre-hire Nate Wells when he finishes school. Companies that pre-hire drivers are considered lucky, as Jim points out drivers dedicated to long haul driving are few and far between.
John McCoy has been driving for 17 years, and over time, he's seen some changes. He cites a decline in the number of trucks on the road, and says new drivers coming into the career are not who you would think. Instead of young drivers coming out of truck driving school, John has noticed middle-aged men making life changes and becoming truck drivers.
Several things companies are doing to attract new drivers; they are raising pay rates to around 50 thousand dollars, and many companies are promising two days off each week. Days off goes against the stereotypical truck drivers that spend seven or more days out on the road.
