A few years ago, we stressed the importance of going above and beyond the CDL program when applying for jobs after graduation. Now more than ever, this is important for students because of the competitive nature of jobs and growing concern for safety that trucking companies have. Make sure you’re prepared before you apply:
A lot of people are moving towards a career as a Commercial Truck Driver due to the growth the industry is experiencing and the shortage of professional truck drivers across the country. But many people incorrectly assume that the only thing necessary to becoming a successful Commercial Truck Driver is getting a Commercial Driving License (CDL), which experience shows is simply not the case.
Companies are looking for the best drivers possible that have the right combination of experience and knowledge. Driving commercial trucks can be a rewarding career with good pay and benefits, but the job is also demanding and requires much more than simply passing a CDL test.
“A lot of people can get a CDL, that doesn’t necessarily make them a professional truck driver,” Jim Runk, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association told CBS News 21 in Pennsylvania last month in a news release. “They have to have the skills to handle the equipment.”
Possessing a CDL is the minimum requirement necessary for prospective Commercial Truck Drivers, but many of the country’s top commercial trucking companies are also looking for truck drivers that have been taught the skills necessary to handle a commercial truck on long hauls and are able to handle a wide variety of challenges that might come up. There is a shortage of truck drivers in the country, but there are also a lot of people attempting to enter the field, which means trucking companies can be selective about the drivers they hire. A major reason for the growing shortage of truck drivers today is that many are entering retirement. That means the industry is not only losing drivers, but is losing skilled drivers that have a lot of experience on the road.
Trucking companies are unlikely to fill those lost positions with inexperienced drivers that just have a CDL. The most attractive drivers will be those that receive training from a top trucking career program, such as the Diesel Driving Academy, where students not only learn how to successfully meet CDL requirements but also understand the extra skills to safety handle commercial trucks and help companies continue to maintain a high level of trucking service.
Like any industry, truckers have to pay their dues and work their way up to more desired positions. But, as is the case in other industries, the truck drivers with the best experience and training will be the ones that have the most success in working their way up. Commercial trucking companies consider a lot of factors when hiring drivers, including safe driving habits and experience. However, being able to put a quality commercial truck driver training program, such as Diesel Driving Academy, on your résumé is also a highly important factor in helping you get your desired job.
Ready to take the next step?
Diesel Driving Academy is ready to help you earn your CDL. Contact us for more information on our CDL training program. DDA campuses are located in Shreveport, Baton Rouge and Little Rock.
