Interested in learning why vets should consider a career in trucking? According to FTR Transportation Intelligence, the industry is facing a shortfall of at least 300,000 qualified drivers, and many trucking companies have increased starting salaries and bonuses in hopes of attracting new drivers.
This driver shortfall, however, is a win for military veterans who have previous experience in the following military specialties:
- 88M – Motor Transport Operator
- 92F – Fueler
- 14T – Patriot Launching Station Operator
- 3531 – Motor Vehicle Operator
- EO – Equipment Operator
- 2TI – Vehicle Operator
- 2FO – Fueler
- 3E2 – Pavement and Construction Equipment Operator
Interested in learning more? Keep reading to learn more about why vets should consider a career in trucking!
Hiring 100,000 Veterans
The American Trucking Association recently made a commitment to hiring 100,000 veterans, and many trucking companies like Chief Carriers have adopted Veteran hiring programs.
Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider a truck driving career as a military veteran:
- Military Skills Overlap
- GI BIll Covers Training
- Career Security
- Steady Pay and Great Benefits
- Veterans Possess Attributes & Skills
1. Military Skills Overlap. Most military personnel are technically savvy, motivated hard workers, and often have worked with heavy equipment. Even those who haven’t worked with heavy equipment possess the grit and work ethic that many trucking companies are seeking in an employee.
And if you already have a commercial driver’s license, many companies will count that time toward seniority and start you at a higher rate of pay. For veterans without a CDL, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Military Skills Test Waiver program can fast-track one provided they meet certain requirements. Programs and policies differ from one trucking company to another.
2. GI Bill Covers Training. There are a large number of Post-9/11 GI Bill-approved trucking schools where you can gain relevant experience and certifications. Contact your trucking company or carrier of choice to learn more about in-house training programs.
3. Career Security. The trucking and logistics industry is experiencing a massive shortfall of qualified drivers and support personnel. And with the increase in shipping thanks to internet shoppers, companies like Amazon and Walmart are vying for veterans to drive their trucks. In addition to hauling for external customers, Chief Carriers hauls for its parent company Chief Industries.
4. Steady pay and great benefits. Pay and benefits have risen by 8% to 12% in recent years, according to the American Trucking Association’s website. This increase outperforms the national average of 2%, and the ATA predicts it will keep rising. The median annual wage for a trucker who works for a private fleet, such as a driver employed by Amazon or Walmart, is $90,000.
5. Veterans Possess Key Attributes and Soft Skills Veterans offer grit, teamwork, and self-discipline, and are mission-focused. These are the qualities that allow veterans to rise through the ranks faster than their civilian counterparts.
Keep reading to learn more about what Chief Carriers is looking for in drivers and why vets should consider a career in trucking!
What We Look For In Drivers
Chief Carriers aims to provide veterans with good jobs that come with competitive pay and benefits. That being said, we do have some criteria for candidates looking to work. These include:
- Minimum of 23 Years Old
- Class A CDL
- Prefer flatbread experience but will train the right candidate
- Good driving record
- No DUI/DWI or drug convictions in the last 5 years
- Minimum of 6 months of OTR experience
Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about why vets should consider a career in trucking! Click below if you fit the criteria listed above or want to talk with one of our recruiters about potential training opportunities!
Ready to apply? Click here to submit your application!
