Growing Demand for Transportation Workers in Alabama
As the demand for transportation and material moving jobs surges across Alabama, community and technical colleges are crucial in preparing a skilled workforce to satisfy this need.
Barry May, executive director for workforce and economic development within the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), states, “There has been no sign of a decline in these sectors over the past five years. Demand remains high and increases annually, indicating a long-term necessity for trained professionals in transportation and logistics. This also suggests potential wage growth in these careers.”
Challenges and Opportunities for Trucking Companies
Paul Hodges, a broker and certified commercial investment member from Hodges Commercial Real Estate in Montgomery, reports that his company currently employs 130 truck drivers but could benefit from hiring more. “If we had 20 new drivers join us next month, we could immediately find work for them,” he believes.
Hodges attributes the driver shortage partly to increased retirements and a limited influx of younger drivers into the workforce. Additionally, his company faces a challenge from an insurance requirement mandating that new hires possess two years of prior driving experience.
Retention Strategies for Drivers
To retain drivers, Hodges emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, noting that many drivers prefer local routes allowing them to return home each night. “Offering modern equipment is also key; drivers take pride in operating newer trucks.” Unlike many in the industry, Hodges’ company compensates drivers by the hour, which alleviates pressure on both parties when the truck is stationary.
Training Opportunities in Transportation
Houston Blackwood, ACCS Innovation Center Workforce Director, remarks that transportation companies seek drivers who view the profession as a lasting career, desiring reliable and safety-focused individuals. Numerous training opportunities are available, including degree programs and rapid training for certifications to meet varied career aspirations, as detailed by May.
Currently, around 3,400 students are enrolled in truck driving programs offered by ACCS, with institutions like J.F. Ingram State Technical College and Lawson State Community College providing specialized training in logistics. Graduates find plentiful job prospects, especially as companies like Penske, FedEx, and UPS actively recruit in Alabama.
Success Stories from Trucking Programs
Dakota Howard, an attendee of Bevill State Community College’s Skills for Success truck driving program, was guided to enroll by his supervisor. The program, a popular choice since 1967, equips students with essential skills for safely handling commercial vehicles and leads to eligibility for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Jason Beasley, the division chair for the CDL program, emphasizes the program’s growing demand as it combines day and evening classes to train around 210 students annually. Feedback from students highlights significant gains in confidence and competence on the road, with graduates like Howard currently finding opportunities within their current employment.
The Vital Role of Truck Drivers
Blackwood expresses the critical nature of truck drivers in ensuring goods are transported throughout the state. With the capacity to turn unemployed individuals into licensed drivers rapidly, ACCS prioritizes efficient, affordable training pathways to boost the driver workforce in Alabama.
According to May, the transportation and logistics sector not only presents lucrative career options but also serves as an essential element supporting other industries, including manufacturing and construction. The comprehensive growth opportunities available in this domain highlight its importance for those at the entry level seeking advancement.
Katherine MacGilvray is a freelance writer from Huntsville contributing to Business Alabama.
This article is published in the June 2024 edition of Business Alabama.
