Latest Updates – Blog

From the Next Generation of Trucking to FedEx Freight For many high school students, figuring out what comes after graduation can be overwhelming. But sometimes, one experience can change the

Generation Z is entering the workforce in a big way, but recruiting and training this generation may require employers to rethink some of the approaches that worked in the past.

Next Gen Trucking and International Foodservice Distribution Association (IFDA) brings students and industry leaders together for hands-on career exploration, leadership development, and real-world connections. SAN ANTONIO, TX — For 50

Driving a commercial motor vehicle in winter weather requires more than simply slowing down when the snow starts falling. Professional drivers may travel through multiple states, changing elevations and rapidly

The technician shortage continues to be one of the biggest workforce challenges facing the trucking industry. But what if part of the solution isn’t simply finding more technicians? In a

Every day, professional truck drivers deliver the food on our shelves, the medicine in our hospitals, the materials that build our communities, and countless other products we depend on. During National

This episode of NGT Talks explores how the trucking industry and CDL training programs can play an important role in recognizing and combating human trafficking. Lindsey is joined by Brandy

Free Wellness Video Series Confronts Staggering Driver Health Crisis The commercial trucking industry has spent decades investing billions of dollars in safety technology, aerodynamics, and predictive maintenance to ensure trucks

The Next Generation in Trucking Association is excited to announce the return of the NEXT Top Talent Award, a national recognition program celebrating outstanding professional drivers and diesel technicians under the

The future of trucking depends on the next generation discovering the opportunities available within the industry. In this episode of NGT Talks, we sit down with Hannah Dannecker, an author,

From Reluctant Observer to Trucking Leader Many people find their way into trucking unexpectedly, and Marina Ivanov‘s story is no exception. Growing up with a father who owned and operated

A National Stage for Skilled Trades Excellence Every year, thousands of students from across the country compete in SkillsUSA, showcasing their talents in technical and skilled trades careers. From welding

A Second Chance Through Trucking The trucking industry has long been a pathway to economic opportunity, but for many individuals with criminal records, finding a career after incarceration can feel

A Career Path He Never Expected Dave Dein never imagined he would become an educator. As a self-described D/F student in high school, he struggled to find purpose in traditional

Strong advisory boards can completely transform a trucking or logistics program. In a recent episode of Next Gen Talks, Lindsey Trent sat down with Dave Dein, CDL Coordinator and Instructor

Why the Industry Must Invest in Early Talent Development The trucking industry is facing a major workforce challenge, and companies across the country are beginning to realize that the future

The Next Generation in Trucking Association is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Career Catalyst Awards, recognizing organizations that are making a meaningful impact in developing and supporting

The trucking industry is at a turning point. As experienced drivers retire and workforce shortages continue to impact supply chains across the country, fleets are realizing that recruiting the next

The Backbone of the Industry Is Changing At the Next Generation in Trucking Association, our mission is to promote careers, build training programs, and connect tomorrow’s workforce with today’s employers.

A Unique Path into Trucking Advocacy In this episode of NGT Talks, Lindsey Trent sits down with Kelsea, an attorney who has carved out a unique and impactful niche within

The trucking industry touches nearly every part of daily life, yet many people rarely think about it as a career. Trucks move the goods that keep our economy running, but

The future of the trucking industry depends on how well we connect today’s students to tomorrow’s careers—and the Next Generation in Trucking Association is proud to spotlight the companies making

The Future of CDL Training Is Technology Driven The trucking industry is evolving rapidly, and driver training programs are adapting to meet the needs of a modern workforce. In a

At the Next Generation in Trucking Association (NGT), we believe safety, leadership, and opportunity go hand in hand. In a recent episode of NGT Talks, I had the pleasure of

By: Thom Albrecht – Chief Revenue Officer at Reliance Partners For small and mid-sized motor carriers, especially those with a fair amount of dependenceupon freight brokers and the overall spot

Were there misconceptions on my part about what it meant to be an educator in my first year? Undeniably. Unequivocally. Yes. Unknowingly, I based everything I thought I knew about

Workforce development doesn’t always start with a perfect plan—it often starts with opportunity, strong culture, and a company willing to invest in people. On a recent episode of NGT Talks,

On this episode of NextGen Talks, I sat down with Natalie Williams of Ancora Education to discuss how workforce training partnerships are shaping the future of trucking and skilled trades.

When you think of a diesel technician, what image comes to mind? For many people — especially parents and students exploring career pathways — the mental picture is still a

On this episode of NextGen Talks, I sat down with Scott Shaw, President & CEO of Lincoln Technical Institute, to discuss the future of skilled trades, diesel technology education, and

I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to share a brief update from the National FFA Convention, and what a remarkable week it was. We had a very successful year

Subhead: Vocational Branding by David Zelnio SHRM-CP As pressure mounts on companies to recruit people for essential jobs like trucking, a few organizations have emerged to champion these professions. Health

Quick take We’re in a long-term workforce predicament, not a short-term problem: fewer young people are entering the labor force while experienced workers retire. If industries keep competing for the

Bradley R Fulton, PhD Director, Research and Analytics If a carrier wants to understand their drivers’ feelings about work-related issues, they need to ask. The most efficient and effective method

The trucking industry doesn’t move without diesel technicians. Yet across the country, shops are facing a growing shortage of skilled mechanics, with an aging workforce and not enough young people

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 — The Next Generation in Trucking Association proudly announces the winners and finalists of the inaugural 2025 NEXT Top Talent Award, a national recognition

At NextGen Talks, we shine a light on the people, schools, and companies shaping the future of trucking and logistics. This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement to inspire, connect,

At the Next Generation in Trucking Association (NGT), we’re passionate about showcasing how young professionals are shaping the future of our industry. On a recent episode of NGT Talks, we

Starting Your Journey: CDL Education and Professional Driving The journey to becoming a professional truck driver begins with thorough education and preparation for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Programs

At NGT Talks, we love spotlighting leaders who are reshaping the future of trucking. Our recent guest, Nicole Ward, founder of the African American Women in Trucking Association —also known

At the Next Generation in Trucking Association (NGT), we believe powerful stories can drive industry-wide change—and Bryan Boyd’s career journey is a perfect example. Recently, we caught up with Bryan,

The Next Generation in Trucking Association is proud to launch the NEXT Top Talent Award, a new national recognition program honoring the rising stars of our industry—exceptional drivers and diesel

In a world where headlines often focus on trucking’s challenges—driver shortages, regulatory shifts, and evolving technologies—some companies are rewriting the narrative with innovation, vision, and heart. Garner Trucking, led by

Before we dive into today’s topic, I want to extend a big thank you to our sponsors—true NextGen Trucking Advocates. Shoutout to Averitt, DHL, Fusion Now, Gordon Food Service, and

By Olivia Clark If your truck is sidelined because of someone else’s negligence, you need to know your rights and how to protect your income. In many states, the law

It is an honor and privilege to work with the Next Generation in Trucking and the Patterson High School program is very fortunate to have individuals and companies that share

Next Generation in Trucking Association Announces 2025 Career Catalyst Award Winners  In a powerful move toward building a sustainable and younger trucking workforce, the Next Generation in Trucking Association has

Do you know a veteran who has successfully transitioned into a trucking career? Nominations are now open through June 24, 2025 at transitiontrucking.org. Honoring Our Heroes Behind the Wheel: The

The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) was more than a trade show—it was a launching pad for future careers. This year, nearly 600 Career and Technical Education (CTE) students attended MATS

Next Generation in Trucking (NGT is proud to host our upcoming Train the Trainer event on June 2–3 at Patterson High School in Patterson, California, led by nationally recognized educator

Having just returned from the Educating for Careers Conference in Sacramento, California it was amazing to see the momentum being carried into the CTE sector. In just a few years

The trucking industry is facing a workforce crisis—Baby Boomers are retiring, birth rates are declining, and too many young people are unaware of the high-wage, high-demand careers available in trucking