Dive Brief:
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) called on a Congressional subcommittee on December 2nd to enhance programs that assist veterans in transitioning to careers in trucking. During a hearing for the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, Greg Hamm, Vice President of field and government recruiting at Werner Enterprises, advocated for increased funding for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training and legislation aimed at simplifying job searches in the supply chain for veterans and their spouses.
“Veterans embody values that strengthen workplaces and supply chains,” Hamm stated in an ATA press release. “Employing them is not just charitable; it’s a savvy business decision.”
Dive Insight:
Hamm, a veteran of the Army, highlighted Werner’s efforts to employ veterans, noting that approximately 20% of the company’s 13,000 workforce have military ties, with a goal to increase that number to 25%. “Veterans joining Werner can explore various career paths, from professional driving and maintenance to roles in safety, operations, and logistics management,” he explained. The company also offers extensive educational support, including tuition assistance and resource groups for military families.
Hamm’s testimony highlights the long-standing challenges in driver recruitment and retention within the trucking industry. Additionally, companies are adapting to recent changes in English proficiency enforcement and non-domiciled CDL regulations, alongside a dwindling pool of qualified drivers.
In addition to advocating for more CDL funding, Hamm suggested the passage of the Warriors to Workforce Act to alleviate housing challenges for veterans in job training programs. He also encouraged support for the Veterans’ Transition to Trucking Act to simplify the Department of Veterans Affairs’ oversight of apprenticeship programs.
The Veterans Benefits Administration estimates roughly 200,000 service members transition to civilian life each year. Hamm remarked that many possess the discipline, technical skills, and leadership qualities that are advantageous for careers in transportation.
He shared the story of Werner employee Eric Macedo, an Army sergeant formerly serving as a mechanic. Macedo utilized his GI Bill benefits to acquire a CDL through Werner’s apprentice program and now acts as a road team captain and mentor.
Recently, Werner was recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative for its commitment to hiring veterans. “By working together, policymakers and employers can create more opportunities for those who have served our nation,” Hamm concluded.
