Because it a job that has to be done despite so many challenges… shippers, receivers, traffic, construction, mechanical issues etc. But the reality of its necessity can’t be denied. Product may travel around the world on ship, planes and trains but it gets to the consumer with a truck. CDL drivers, unlike pilots, engineers and captains have to back up, deal with traffic, they make less and are away from home more. I have done many safety meetings over 35 years in the business and I always ask the question. “How many of you are okay if your children grow up to drive a truck?” NO hands go up…. That is a shame that they don’t feel valued in the role. We simply don’t get anything without them. In my mind there are no unimportant jobs in a trucking company, but all the other jobs should be to support the drivers. Imagine so many other industries (Pro Sports, Airlines, etc.) if the stars were treated and felt like second class citizens. Drivers are misled at every turn, considered a nuisance by the motoring public when the interstate system was actually designed for trucks and military. Their time is not valued by many and the pay is usually inconsistent. No wonder there is a driver shortage!
-Keith Carroll