Trucking Industry Faces Worker Shortage
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The trucking industry in the Coastal Bend is currently struggling to find enough qualified workers. As a result, companies are increasing salaries and benefits to attract drivers. One local trucking school is even reporting a waiting list for new students.
Student Career Aspirations
Johnny Leiva, a student at Del Mar’s truck driving program, chose this path to follow in his mother’s footsteps as an independent hazmat trucking business owner. The timing is advantageous, given the nationwide shortage of truck drivers.
Potential Salary Increases
Jennifer Smith, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal, recently highlighted this shortage, suggesting it could lead to increased salaries for drivers. She mentioned, “Some major trucking companies have been raising their pay, particularly for less experienced drivers, with one significant company implementing about a 40 percent wage increase.”
Starting Salaries on the Rise
According to Smith, some new drivers could potentially earn starting salaries as high as $60,000 annually.
Impact of Unemployment Benefits
Clint Curry, president of Trout Trucking in Robstown, believes the driver shortage may partly stem from good intentions in government policy. He noted, “Several drivers have expressed that they will return to work once the unemployment benefits end.”
Beyond Pay: Other Incentives
Curry adds that higher wages aren’t the sole attraction. He explains, “We ask drivers if they prefer long-haul jobs or local routes, offering opportunities to drive across Texas and neighboring states.”
Growing Interest in Truck Driving Careers
While there is a shortage of drivers, interest in truck driving careers is booming according to a local school. John Rojas, director of transportation training services at Del Mar College, mentions, “If you sign up today, the next available class is on June 7th,” adding that most students receive job offers before completing their training.
Johnny’s Perspective
For students like Johnny, the prospect of higher pay makes pursuing a career in trucking even more appealing. He notes, “Transitioning from construction, where I earned around $30-40,000 a year, to driving is an exciting opportunity.”
