Fleet Management News & Business Info | Commercial Carrier Journal
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/592176
Small Steps to Retaining Drivers T he ongoing driver shortage is not news to anyone in the trucking industry. Along with falling rates, increasing equipment and operating costs, and uneven capacity, the concern of having enough qualied drivers to operate the nation's commercial motor vehicles is a matter of urgency. Over the years, there have been suggestions to change the legal environment — such as allowing under-21- year-olds to drive interstate — and suggestions on looking for new sources of drivers, such as returning military personnel. e current thinking is a broad eort to make the industry more appealing generally, to millennials and women, who traditionally may not have thought about careers in the industry. at women have not considered a career in trucking is disappointing, because women who are already in this industry are phenomenal leaders and excel in their jobs, whether as company presidents who build their market share; drivers who rack up millions of miles without incident or accident; or the multitude of technical, managerial, and operational functions that are performed awlessly and allow their companies to function smoothly, successfully, and competitively. ere's a great organization that exists to represent women at all levels of the trucking industry, and it is appropriately called the Women In Trucking Association. WIT exists to promote the employment of women in the industry; to minimize the obstacles that keep women from truly considering opportunities in the industry; and to promote their accomplishments and leadership. But WIT also heightens the awareness of how the industry can do better for its employees, regardless of gender. BY BOB ROTHSTEIN 30 IT MAGAZINE Vo l . 9 , N o . 6