For those looking to begin their trucking career in 2024, you will be joining a growing industry! As consumer demand increases, so does the need for more truck drivers. The good news for new drivers: the trucking industry has a lot to offer!
Consumer Demand
About 65% of all goods travel by truck throughout the United States. The tonnage of goods transported is expected to increase by about 1.6% through 2050! As the demand for products increases, more and more drivers will be needed to keep the supply chain moving.
An Increase in Trucking Jobs
There are currently about 241,200 truck driving job openings in the United States, and this number is expected to stay fairly consistent over the next decade. Drivers who are retiring will need to be replaced by the next generation. So, finding a job will not be a difficult task regardless of where you live!
With so many job opportunities available, there are plenty of ways to put your CDL to use after your training. Whether you decide to get your Class A CDL, Class B CDL, or a combination of the two, the possibilities are endless. Explore the vast job opportunities within the trucking industry!
The New Wave: Automatic Trucks
While semi-trucks with manual transmissions were the standard for many years, many carriers are shifting towards automatic. Most drivers prefer the simplicity and smooth ride of an automatic truck, however, some still like the feeling of complete control a manual transmission provides. Some companies still have fully standard or mixed fleets, giving you options when it comes to getting behind the wheel!
Talk of autonomous vehicles has many concerned for the future of the trucking industry, specifically the need for human drivers. These vehicles have been tested, and it was concluded that there is still a need for safety drivers in case an evasive maneuver is necessary. It will be quite a while until they are deemed s afe to hit the road without a safety driver. While we may see an increase in autonomous trucks, the demand for drivers will never end!
Companies are also utilizing modern technology to make things a bit safer on the road! Some of these new features may include motion detection of cars around you or high-definition backup cameras. CDL training will help prepare you to do the challenging parts of the job such as backing up, pulling into tight spaces, or entering/exiting busy highways and interstates.
Truck Drivers Make a Good Living
Truck drivers have a high earning potential, allowing them and their families to live comfortably, with the average salary for an OTR driver being around $49,920. More experienced drivers can expect to earn upwards of $75,220! In addition to a stable income, most companies provide their drivers with many other benefits including paid time off, full healthcare benefits, and retirement benefits like a 401k.
Looking to join the growing industry of trucking in 2024? Contact us today and we’ll help you begin your CDL training at United Truck Driving School!
