(June 30, 2021) ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A widespread shortage of truck drivers is posing threats to delivery services and retailers across the U.S., as well as raising the possibility of higher delivery fees for consumers and higher prices at checkout. To offset demand, according to the American Trucking Association, the trucking industry will need to hire roughly 1.1 million drivers over the next decade, or an average of 110,000 per year.
 
"Trucking," says Brad Ball, president of Roadmaster Drivers School, "is an essential industry, and truck driving is one of the top-paying positions open to applicants without a college degree. People need jobs, and the nation needs drivers; what we need to do is bring them together."

Problems caused by unfilled driver positions, Ball says, may soon be exacerbated by gasoline shortages as the COVID pandemic continues to abate and Americans return to the road. The National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC), an industry trade group, has warned that a worsening semi-truck driver shortage could lead to higher fuel prices and even shortages at the pump this summer. According to NTTC, about 25% of tanker trucks are currently off the road due to the unavailability of qualified drivers.

Newly minted commercial driver's license holders in St. Louis report receiving multiple job offers upon completion of their training. In addition to ready acceptance, Ball notes that employment as a truck driver can lead in time to many other positions. "The management ranks of the industry," he says, "are full of people who started out behind the wheel."

However, he notes, new drivers customarily spend six months to a year working for an over-the-road carrier, beginning with six to eight weeks of teaming with another driver before being given their own truck. As they gain experience over the road, many options open for them: regional and dedicated routes, driving fuel trucks (which requires a hazardous materials certification and additional training), becoming a trainer or taking on still other roles, depending on their goals for income and home time.