Workforce Boards: Is This the Answer to Trucking’s Perpetual Need for People?
In a people-powered industry facing persistent labor shortages, many trucking companies are overlooking a powerful local resource: Regional workforce boards. This whitepaper explores how federally funded Workforce Development Boards (WDBs), designed to match employers with qualified talent and training funds, can help the trucking industry attract and retain much-needed drivers – especially young workers. It outlines the structure and history of WDBs, showcases successful trucking partnerships, and offers steps for companies ready to get involved.
This whitepaper covers the following:
- The problem defined: The trucking industry needs people – but lacks the outreach and strategy to attract young, qualified drivers at scale.
- Without trucking industry voices at the table, training dollars go to flashier industries. Workforce Boards must hear from carriers to prioritize the needs of the trucking industry.
- The local solution: Workforce Development Boards (WBDs) – Regional WBDs connect employers to trained workers and can direct significant training funds to industries that engage with them.
- Available resources for employers include job training, CDL programs, simulators and career pathway development for employers who participate in WDBs.
- Real-world examples include A&M Trucking and the Alabama Trucking Association, demonstrating how getting involved leads to better recruitment and lasting industry impact.
Putting Young Americans on the Road: How High Schools Can Help Solve the Truck Driver Shortage
High schools across the U.S. are partnering with the nonprofit Next Generation in Trucking Association (NextGen) to launch CDL and trucking education programs for students – offering them career-ready skills and helping them address the industry’s ongoing driver shortage. With 160,000 driver openings projected by 2030, these high school-based programs provide students with a fast-track to high-paying, in-demand careers while also reducing the stigma surrounding vocational training.
This whitepaper covers the following:
- Real-world examples include Patterson High School, Connell High School, Parke Heritage High School, and more.
- The problem defined: 160,000+ unfilled truck driver roles expected by 2030, with many jobs paying $40/hour and requiring no prior experience.
- Driven by former truck driver Dave Dein and industry leader Lindsey Trent, Next Gen supports program creation, curriculum, and funding strategies.
- From 10 pilot programs in 2020 to over 50 active high school trucking programs today, supported by federal/state grants and private sponsors.