Campaign to Expand Florida’s Trucking Workforce
Trucking encompasses more than just driving, and the Florida Trucking Association (FTA) is introducing a new initiative aimed at attracting a broader range of people into the industry.
The “Jobs Beyond the Wheel” campaign is set to launch as the FTA strives to widen access to diverse employment opportunities within Florida’s trucking sector, which includes various roles beyond operating large trucks. The FTA recognizes a significant “shortage of skilled workers” and aims to recruit more individuals into trucking-related positions.
“Each truck on Florida’s roads is backed by a team of skilled professionals making it all happen,” stated Alix Miller, President and CEO of the Florida Trucking Association. “The trucking sector offers exciting, lucrative careers, many of which we plan to highlight. This campaign will share personal experiences from workers about the skills they’ve developed and the paths they’ve taken. Our goal is to illustrate the dynamic opportunities available for Floridians to see how their abilities can thrive in this vital industry where innovation and opportunity intersect.”
FTA officials emphasize that all sectors of the trucking industry support the vast majority of commerce in Florida. The new program features an interactive website designed to present the various layers of the trucking industry while promoting different career paths.
This website serves as more than a marketing tool; it encompasses career resources, training materials, job postings, and connections to companies hiring employees related to trucking across the state. Many of these positions extend well beyond just driving.
Among the roles available are diesel technicians responsible for maintaining and repairing trucks, as well as manufacturing specialists needed for producing repair parts. Additional roles in demand include brokers, customer operations professionals, human resources staff, transportation attorneys, safety experts, and public relations and communications specialists to help promote the industry.
“’Jobs Beyond the Wheel’ highlights the different roles and individuals powering the trucking industry — whether for job seekers today or college students exploring post-graduation opportunities,” remarked Elizabeth Emmanuel, Vice President of Public Affairs at FTA and the project’s creative director. “Regardless of life stage or educational background, we want individuals to consider the transportation sector as an appealing career option.”
This campaign receives partial funding from FloridaCommerce, the state’s business development agency.
