If you’ve ever wondered how that gadget you ordered online gets to your doorstep, or how supermarkets are chock-full of goodies, trucks are often where the rubber meets the road. As we cruise through 2023, let’s talk shop about what’s happening job-wise in the trucking world.
Economy and Trucking: What’s the Deal?
Alright, so the economy is kind of like a yo-yo lately, right? But here’s the scoop: people are always gonna shop, and that means trucks are always gonna haul. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) says trucks move a whopping 70% of all goods in the US. But here’s the catch – when gas prices jump or the economy gets finicky, trucking companies might pump the brakes on hiring.
However, with online shopping still booming, trucks are as busy as ever. That’s good news if you’re thinking about a career that keeps you moving.
Tech Talk: Trucks of the Future
Now, let’s geek out for a sec about tech in trucks. There’s been a lot of chatter about self-driving trucks, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. They’re not about to take over the highways just yet. For now, tech is making trucks smarter and safer, not replacing drivers. Think GPS for the best routes, gadgets that track driving hours, and safety features that could save your bacon on the highway.
And guess what? All this cool tech means trucking companies want to attract folks who can handle a smartphone better than a wrench. So if you’re young and tech-savvy, trucking might be calling your name.
Driver Wanted: Apply Within
Heads up: the trucking industry is kinda desperate for drivers. Last I heard, they were down by about 80,000 seats. If you’ve ever wanted a job where companies fight over you with better pay and perks, now might be your chance.
And it’s not just about the money. Companies are trying to get all kinds of people into the driver’s seat – from fresh-out-of-school kids to vets and everyone in between.
Rules of the Road
So, there are rules about how long you can drive and when you gotta take a break. It keeps things safe but also means more drivers are needed to keep those wheels turning. Plus, there’s talk about letting under-21-year-olds drive big rigs across state lines. If that happens, a bunch of new driving gigs could open up.
Green Means Go
Last bit – trucks are getting greener. With all the talk about clean air, there’s a push for trucks that run on electric juice or hydrogen. This is not just great for Mother Earth, but also means there’ll be jobs for people who know how to keep these high-tech haulers humming.
The Bottom Line
So, what’s the 411 on trucking jobs in 2023? It’s like a highway with a few speed bumps but plenty of open road ahead. If you’re up for the ride, the industry’s got a seat with your name on it. Whether you’re steering the wheel or supporting the fleet, there’s a lane for you in trucking. And who knows, it might just be the career adventure you’re looking for. Keep on truckin’!
