Thinking about becoming a snow plow driver?
This seasonal job requires its own unique expertise, equipment, and dedication to a challenging schedule, but remains in high demand each year by both state Departments of Transportation and private businesses.
If you’re up for the task, snow plow driving could be the right solution for CDL drivers looking to gain additional income or find an annual gig. Keep reading to learn more about the experience needed, expectations on the job, and perks of being a snow plow driver.
What is a snow plow driver?Operating a snow plow is different from most other CDL driving jobs because it is usually an on-call or contracted seasonal position through a local public works department, state Department of Transportation, or private company.
Some snow plow drivers are contracted by private businesses such as malls, hotels, or residential communities. Others plow major roads and public areas and often deposit melting solutions, salt, and sand as preventive measures when heavy snowfall is predicted.
This job requires physical endurance, manual dexterity, and the technical skills required to operate large machinery. It’s also important to remain available for on-call shifts throughout the winter, and whenever wintery weather conditions are forecasted.
What experience do you need?Although operating a snow plow is a challenging and physically demanding job, it is not difficult to gain the required experience to become a qualified applicant.
All positions will require a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and some may ask for additional training or certifications. Private companies often offer on-the-job training, but it is always beneficial to have at least two years of experience with similar vehicles or equipment.
To stand out on applications, connect with seasoned professionals, and receive training materials and skill certifications, consider joining an industry association such as the Snow & Ice Management Association or the Accredited Snow Contractors Association. While the annual demand for snowplow operators remains consistently high, being equipped with industry connections and verifiable experience will give you a competitive edge when seeking employment in this field.
Equipment necessaryOperating a snow plow is also unique because the actual blade is able to be equipped on any truck, even a half-ton pickup. This makes it more accessible for drivers looking to work for a private company or even start their own, without having to think about finding a new tractor.
Facing unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather and road conditions, snow plow drivers must be prepared for anything. These are some of the essentials that every operator should bring with them.
What are the benefits?What most drivers really want to know about a position like operating a snow plow is what the pay and benefits are like. While compensation varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and demand for snow removal services, drivers are usually paid hourly and can sometimes receive overtime during times of heavy snowfall.
Today’s average hourly pay for a snow plow driver in the US is $24.36, with a range from $12.98 to $35.34. Although this adds up to a lower average annual salary than the overall CDL driver average, the seasonal nature of snow plow driving means it is usually a supplement to income, allowing drivers to pick up a little extra cash around the holiday season.
Some employers also offer standard employment benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, as well as performance bonuses or further training to gain additional experience operating snow removal equipment.
Operating a snow plow is a challenging but rewarding job for CDL drivers looking to make additional income each winter. If you’re interested in finding out more, head to your local DOT website or find a nearby private company focusing in winter maintenance and snow removal.
For more information on opportunities available to CDL drivers year round, be sure to check out our social media and stay up-to-date on our Truck Driver Blog! The post Snow Plow Driving 101: What Truckers Should Know About Winter Road Maintenance appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/mOCik5r
0 Comments
Truckers face many challenges on the road, but rarely is something as unpredictable and difficult as driving during the winter.
When dealing with intense weather conditions, icy roads, reduced visibility, or other hazards, driving a truck requires a specific set of skills and precautions, as well as the right equipment and supplies.
Keep reading to learn winter driving tips and tricks for CDL drivers, and some of the essential gear that you should always have in your truck during the cold months. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a new driver, these tips are sure to keep you safe and comfortable on the road this winter.
Be Prepared for AnythingSafety should be every driver’s priority year round, but winter driving calls for another level of caution and preparation. Road conditions in the winter can be unpredictable and fast changing, which means you should be prepared for the worst every time you hit the road.
To better prepare yourself for any situation, double check that you have the following items each time you depart:
Check Conditions and Forecasts FrequentlyAlthough even the weatherman gets it wrong sometimes, it’s important to stay up-to-date on potential weather changes and road conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast and closed routes by radio, GPS systems, your phone, or by calling into dispatch.
Thorough InspectionsPre-trip vehicle inspections should look a little different during winter months. Each time before hitting the road, be sure to check these features:
Slow and Steady Wins the RaceThe best advice for winter driving is to always drive slower, smoother, and steadier than you think is necessary. Rushing to get a job done or to get back home quicker is never worth the risk of collisions, jackknifes, or rollovers.
Don’t slip!Finally, remember that your vehicle’s steps might be more slick than you expect. Be careful when entering and exiting your tractor during winter. It might help to wear boots that have a good grip, and be sure to take your time.
Driving in the winter can be dangerous, but it doesn’t have to be. With over 17% of all vehicle crashes occurring in winter weather conditions, it’s essential to drive slowly and defensively, remain alert, and prepare your truck for every situation.
Here at Drive My Way, we take driver safety seriously. For more information safety tips and tricks, be sure to connect with us on social media and stay up-to-date on our Truck Driver Blog! The post Black Ice: Essential Safety Tips for Winter Driving appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/mOCik5r The chances are, if you’ve been in the transportation industry for a while, you’ve heard the phrase “last mile delivery, also referred to as final mile delivery.”
In recent years, with the rise of e-commerce and a consumer-driven industry, last mile delivery has become a major differentiating factor among competitor, and a job opportunity for independent contractors looking to have a regular route, close to home.
With today’s consumers expecting fast and reliable delivery every time they make an online purchase, retailers and last mile delivery companies have had to work hard to offer multiple options for fast and affordable shipping and delivery rates. This has also opened up availability for 1099 independent contractors and owner operators who have the equipment necessary to respond to the rising consumer demand.
Read on to find out what last mile delivery really is, the biggest challenges facing delivery drivers today, and how this could be the right job for you.
What is Last Mile Delivery?The supply chain process can be divided into three main stages:
The First Mile is the creation and distribution of a product from the original manufacturer.
The Middle Mile is the long distance transportation of a product from the manufacturer to its final transportation hub.
The Last Mile, also called Final Mile is the transportation of a product from a hub such as a local warehouse or fulfillment center to its final destination at either a retailer or customer’s home.
Every step of the supply chain process is important, but the last mile has the most impact on the customer’s experience, and their likelihood of ordering from a company again. Therefore, businesses must ensure the most quick and efficient last mile delivery as possible if they want to stay ahead of competition.
What’s the “Last Mile Problem?”The “last mile problem” is another phrase you might have heard thrown around. This simply refers to the common factors that cause issues, delays, and additional expenses during the last mile delivery. This stage of the supply chain process might be the most critical to the consumer experience, but it’s also the most expensive and time-consuming for the business, often accounting for 53% of overall delivery costs.
Many factors play a role in this notoriously difficult and expensive phase of the delivery process that affect both drivers and businesses. For drivers, last mile delivery can be difficult due to a short delivery time frame, dense urban areas that lead to more stops and last minute route changes, rising fuel prices, and failed deliveries.
Businesses must also account for other factors such as the added pressure of customer expectation for rapid delivery and real-time tracking, the shortage of qualified drivers, and the costs of vehicle maintenance.
Although these common inefficiencies aren’t going away any time soon, neither is the importance of quick and efficient last mile delivery. This is where the opportunity for independent contractors comes in.
Opportunities for Independent Contractors1099 independent contractor drivers and owner-operators from across the nation have found success in recent years filling the gaps left by the “last mile problem.” As the demand for fast and reliable shipping and delivery has continued to increase, drivers with the right equipment are increasingly able to find flexible, locally based, and well-paying delivery jobs.
Last mile delivery appeals to many owner-operators who appreciate the flexibility and autonomy that comes with this kind of job. Delivery drivers are able to choose their routes, allowing for more control of their schedule on a day-to-day basis.
For drivers looking to reduce long-haul travel and find consistent work within a particular region, last mile delivery is ideal because of its inherently local nature. Local drivers are also better suited for making deliveries in urban areas and other locations where having a prior knowledge of the roads and shortcuts could save time and money during delivery.
Drivers also benefit from understanding consumer expectations. One of the most requested and expected features of last mile delivery is real-time tracking, with one study finding that 93% of customers expect to be able to track their order. By integrating technology such as fleet management software or telematics systems, owner-operators can streamline their operations and provide better service.
Some drivers also choose to partner with delivery platforms or gig economy services that connect them to businesses and individuals in need of last mile delivery. These partnerships offer independent contractors opportunities to leverage their vehicles and expertise in efficient and timely deliveries while providing them with consistent freight.
It’s important for independent contract drivers and owner-operators to research and evaluate potential partners based on their specific needs, preferences, and the types of deliveries they are interested in handling. Building relationships with a mix of local businesses and larger platforms can provide a diversified and steady stream of last mile delivery opportunities. Additionally, staying informed about industry trends and changes can help owner-operators identify new partnership possibilities.
If you’re looking for an in-demand job that will continue to grow while remaining locally-based, last mile delivery might be the solution for you. Although facing a number of difficulties and considerations as it expands, last mile delivery is sure to be a key part of the future of the trucking industry.
To stay up-to-date on trends and news on the trucking industry, be sure to follow us on social media or read more of our Driver Blog.
The post Last Mile Delivery: What Every Trucker Needs to Know appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/QWKH2VF This New Year, people around the world created resolutions about fitness, hobbies, relationships, and more. However, many forget that creating goals for your career and work environment can decrease daily stress and improve productivity all year long.
In a field like commercial trucking, your job can often feel more like a lifestyle. This means that by creating New Year’s resolutions that prioritize your health, safety, and enjoyment on the job, you can improve your overall quality of life.
Keep reading to find out 5 New Year’s resolutions every CDL driver should add to their list this year, and how to set yourself up to have a successful and safe 2024.
Health & WellnessFor CDL drivers, who spend an average of 40-60 hours a week on the road, it can be difficult to remember to prioritize your physical and mental health. This year, create realistic and quantifiable goals that allow you to focus on your well being no matter where you are.
Take advantage of your break times to get out and stretch your legs or go for a walk. Consider making it a goal to walk for 15 minutes a day, or incorporate calf and other muscle stretches into your daily routine. Being stationary for long periods of time can have a greater health impact than you might expect, and just a little bit of movement can go a long way.
In 2024, you should also keep in mind that mental health is just as important as physical health. Try listening to new podcasts or audiobooks that deal with health and wellness, and be honest with yourself about how you feel. With nearly 14% of CDL drivers facing depression, the first step to every solution is to recognize the problem. This year, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it, and look into what services your carrier may provide to help you along the way.
Diet & NutritionWhat you eat plays a large role in your health and how you feel overall. Seven out of every 10 truckers face obesity, and this problem can be made worse by the difficulty in finding affordable and nutritious food on the road.
This year, consider making it a priority to bring food from home, or seek out truck stops and restaurants that offer filling food high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. If you find yourself drinking more than 2-3 cups of coffee a day, try to make a goal to lessen your daily intake by half and see how you feel. By eating better and listening to your body, you might be surprised by how much energy you have.
Make Time for Loved OnesOne of the most difficult parts about truck driving is the long time spent away from home. Being far from loved ones and special events can have a direct impact on mental health, and it can be hard to remind yourself to remain connected while on the road.
By involving your family and loved ones in your own resolutions, you might also be more likely to keep up with them! This year, call home at least once a week, and try out new activities to make the distance seem less difficult. Video calling might not feel the same as being there in person, but apps that let you watch movies together virtually or online board games can improve your mood and remind you of who is waiting for you when you get back.
Maintain Regular Rest TimeWhen you’re on the road, it can be easy to try to drive as much as possible to get the job done faster. However, scheduling regular break times is not just legally required for CDL drivers, it’s also important for your safety.
Allow yourself time to rest whenever you begin to feel tired, even if you just pull to the side of the road for 15 minutes. This will barely affect your overall run time, and could help you avoid dangerous and costly accidents.
Always Be Open to LearnThe trucking industry is always changing, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming to keep up with evolving trends. However, remember that by staying up to date on the newest technologies and legislation, you can remain ahead of the game and find ways to make your day-to-day routine easier.
Consider making it a goal to attend a new conference or hiring event this year. Even if you aren’t looking for a new job, finding out about developments in the industry could help you discover new useful tools and plan for the future.
Stay up to date on driver advice, events, and opportunities this year by following our social media or reading other posts on our Driver Blog. The post 5 New Year’s Resolutions to Add to Your List appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/QWKH2VF For the last 30 years, the Worcester family of Harrington, Maine, has led a mission to honor fallen veterans each holiday season by laying wreaths on gravestones across the nation. What started as a small family venture, aided by a local trucking company and a handful of members from their community, has now grown into a nationwide event taking place annually on Wreaths Across America Day.
This year, millions of volunteers from across the United States dedicated their time on December 16th to honor over three million veterans under this year’s theme of “Serve and Succeed.” Taking place at local, state, and national cemeteries in all 50 states, with over 4,225 participating locations, Wreaths Across America has become a powerful symbol of this country’s deep respect and appreciation of each and every fallen soldier.
Keep reading to learn all you need to know about Wreaths Across America, how truckers and their loved ones have played an essential role in supporting this growing tradition nationwide, and what you can do to get involved in next year’s ceremony.
A Timeless Mission Becomes TraditionAlthough the Worcester family first began their efforts to honor fallen soldiers in the Arlington National Cemetery in 1992, it wasn’t until over a decade later, in 2005, that this small project of compassion and respect caught on at a national level.
After photos of the wreaths at the Arlington Cemetery went viral in 2005, the Worcester family’s efforts quickly grew until the nonprofit Wreaths Across America was founded in 2007. With the simple mission of “Remember, honor, and teach,” the movement placed over 100,000 wreaths, helped by over 60,000 volunteers, the following year.
Since then, the organization has grown exponentially. Each year, on the Congress-recognized National Wreaths Across America Day, volunteers, donors, and truckers make it possible to honor these brave women and men by carrying out the Worcester family’s original mission.
The Importance of TruckersTruck drivers have been an essential part of the Wreaths Across America mission since the first event in 1992, when the Worcester family was aided by James Prout, owner of local Maine trucking company Blue Bird Ranch, Inc. Prout helped transport all of the wreaths that year to the Arlington cemetery, a role that hundreds of thousands of truckers have now carried on every year since.
These CDL drivers and transportation companies are responsible for carrying millions of wreaths to each participating location across the country as part of Wreaths Across America’s “Honor Fleet.” Truckers also play a large role in the “world’s largest veteran parade” that happens each year to honor the first trip the Worcester family took in 1992 from Harrington, Maine, to the Arlington National Cemetery.
Now, a procession of truck drivers, local law enforcement, WAA staff, and volunteers make the journey annually on Wreaths Across America day, while stopping at schools, monuments, and veterans’ homes and communities along the way to talk about the Wreaths Across America mission and the importance of honoring the sacrifice made by every fallen soldier.
For many truckers, the mission of WAA is also especially personal. With over 25% of veterans pursing a career in truck driving, CDL drivers across the nation go above and beyond to make sure this tradition continues each year.
At many carriers, it’s common to find drivers who are devoted to veteran affairs year round. NFI Industries employee Jason W. has been involved with Wreaths Across America for the past 3 years, and traveled to the Arlington National Cemetary this year for the ceremony. “It’s things like this that I’m humbled and honored to do,” said Jason W. “It reminds me that even with all the chaos that’s going on in our country right, there are truly people that still care, and our service to our country wasn’t done in vain.” How To Get InvolvedDoes this sound like the sort of mission you’d love to be a part of? There are many ways to be involved with Wreaths Across America, whether as a volunteer, a trucker, or a donor. Mark your calendars if you’d like to participate in next year’s Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, December 14, 2024.
If you’re interested in supporting transportation, WAA makes it easy for you to sign up to haul a truckload of wreaths in next year’s ceremony. For those looking to volunteer by placing wreaths on site, you can simply register in advance to find out the next steps. If volunteering your time or truck isn’t possible, but you still are interested in supporting the Wreaths Across America mission, consider donating to sponsor a wreath or help out with transportation costs.
Wreaths Across America also continues to grow each year. If you know a fallen soldier you’d like recognized, or there’s a memorial cemetery that still hasn’t made the WAA list, please reach out to someone on the sponsorship team.
The post 2023 Wreaths Across America Celebrated Nationwide appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/q7phC6o Every New Year, people around the world set resolutions, reflect on the last 12 months, and decide what they want to change this time around. Was your 2023 different than you expected? Have you already made goals for 2024?
When it comes to setting resolutions for your career, everyone’s goals are different. In an industry like trucking, each driver’s priorities and experiences affect what they’re hoping to accomplish. Still, there are many ways to set yourself up for success in the new year, whether you’re looking to improve your job applications, find exciting driver events, or stay on top of new industry trends.
Keep reading to find out Drive My Way’s 2024 checklist for CDL drivers to save time and stress by getting ahead this New Year.
Insurance Renewal and Keeping Information Up To DateCommercial truck insurance isn’t the most exciting thing to think about at the start of a new year, but it’s important to not get behind and cause yourself more stress later on. Most insurance coverage lasts for a year, with your actual renewal date based on the date you first got your policy.
Be sure to contact your agent or carrier ahead of time, sometimes even up to two months before your renewal date, to assure your coverage doesn’t lapse. You should also keep in mind that rates can change, often increasing due to various factors, such as driving history, industry claims, or overall insurance rates.
If your carrier provides a flexible spending account plan, it’s also important to be sure to submit all the required information to receive your reimbursements for the past year. You just need to submit a claim to the FSA administrator, which is done through your employer, with proof of the medical expenses and a statement that they haven’t been covered by your plan. After this, you’ll be able to be reimbursed for your costs.
It’s also a good idea to use the new year as a time to make sure all your general information is up to date in your employer’s records. Be mindful of updating dependent and emergency contact information if there have been any changes. You never know when this could be necessary, and you don’t want your carrier to have out of date information if something serious happens.
If your mailing address has changed, it’s also important to update your employer with the correct information to ensure that you receive your W2 or 1099 forms to complete your 2023 taxes. You’ll save time and hassle by having this information up to date before the start of tax season.
Review Application MaterialsWhether or not you plan on applying for a new job in 2024, it’s beneficial to have all your application materials up to date and ready to go. Start by reviewing your resumé and add any updates or skills gained that may have taken place over the year.
Nowadays, most hiring is digital. That makes LinkedIn an important platform to utilize and keep up to date. Make sure that your employment and driving history is correct and updated, and add any relevant information that could help your profile stand out to employers.
You can also order ahead certain documents that will make the hiring process more streamlined, such as your PSP report.
Health & Wellness GoalsMany New Year’s resolutions often focus on health and wellbeing. This makes sense, as it’s a good time to assess how you feel and what changes you could implement into your routine to make yourself healthier and happier. For truck drivers, who often face health problems due to the sedentary nature of the career, it can be a great idea to tie a New Year’s resolution into your daily routine as a driver.
This year, it might help to set goals surrounding when and where you eat, and how active you are on a daily basis. It could save you time and money to start packing your own meals, or find affordable, energy-sustaining food at truck stops across the country. There are also many short workouts you can do from anywhere that will keep you moving and feeling better while you’re on the road for long stretches of time.
Make 2024 your best year yet by getting ahead of the curve and preparing for the things you know you’ll have to do this year. It’s sure to be a busy year for the trucking industry, so you might even want to look at this year’s upcoming conferences and events and start planning.
Stay up to date on driver advice, events, and opportunities this year by following our social media or reading other posts on our Driver Blog.
The post New Years Checklist for Drivers appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/q7phC6o All year long, CDL drivers make difficult sacrifices as they work long hours, often far from home, to maintain a critical part of our nation’s infrastructure. For many drivers, these sacrifices are especially felt during the December holiday season.
Not only does the increased demand of goods and services during the holiday season create a greater workload for many drivers, but being far from your loved ones can be much more difficult when you feel like you’re missing out on important events.
This holiday season, you should remind yourself you aren’t alone. There are many ways to remain connected to your loved ones, even from hundreds of miles apart. Many drivers also find creative ways to make their trucks feel like home, while creating a community with fellow truck drivers.
Will you be on the road this holiday season? Keep reading to find out the best ways to make the most of your time and bring the holiday spirit along for the ride.
Celebrating While Miles ApartModern technology has made it easier than ever to feel connected to your loved ones even when you’re far from home. Leverage technology such as FaceTime, Duo, Skype, and Zoom to give your family the gift of seeing you on Christmas morning!
There are also apps such as Rave or Teleparty that allow you to stream the same movie or TV show across different devices no matter where you are, a perfect way to make sure you still get to watch your family’s favorite holiday movie.
All of these platforms require cellular data or connection to wireless internet. Luckily, all of the major truck stop chains, many state welcoming centers, and other establishments such as McDonalds, provide Wi-Fi that is free and accessible to truckers.
A True Trucker’s HolidayThere are many CDL drivers who have spent every holiday season on the road and have become pros at celebrating no matter how far they are from home. Truckers across the country find ways to eat a holiday meal, decorate their truck, or celebrate with fellow drivers to make sure they never miss out on the holiday cheer.
If your favorite part of the holiday season is the food, you’re in luck. There are many ways to make sure you don’t miss out on a home-cooked meal this December.
Most major truck stop restaurant chains offer a holiday meal each year. Keep an eye out for advertisements which usually begin in November, and you’ll be able to find somewhere along your route to stop and celebrate with fellow drivers. However, some restaurants serve these meals on an RSVP basis, so double check when you’re planning where to stop.
Another option, if you’re looking to save money and embrace the tradition of a home-cooked meal, is to make a holiday feast from the comfort of your own cab. Cooking from your truck is easier than it may seem, and there are countless recipes available online if you have a slow cooker, crock pot, or portable stove. Just make sure your truck has the power capabilities necessary for the job. An inverter and an auxiliary power unit (APU) work together so you can easily operate all these appliances, even when your truck is off.
Many drivers also embrace a unique holiday tradition: decorating their truck. Drivers nationwide have found creative ways to make their truck feel more like home by decorating with lights, bows, and ornaments.
Winter SafetyDriving during the holiday season can be difficult for other reasons, too. This time of year can bring some pretty rough weather conditions, coupled with increased holiday traffic, making it extra important to be vigilant and careful while out on the road.
Rushing to get a job done or to get back home is never worth the risk of collisions, jackknifes, or rollovers. If there are severe weather conditions that could impact visibility or overall safety, the best decision is always to wait it out on the side of the road. Maintain space from the vehicles around you, in case you have to make an emergency stop.
Safety is important year round, but there are a couple of essential tips to keep in mind all winter long.
Driving during the holiday season is hard, but it doesn’t have to feel impossible. Create new holiday traditions by remaining connected to your loved ones while celebrating on the road and staying safe all winter long.
What are your OTR holiday traditions? Can you think of any advice that we left out? Be sure to reach out to us on social media about your experience driving during the holidays. The post Essential Tips for Driving During the Holidays appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/hXnMF83 What are your goals for work in 2024? Hoping to make more industry connections? Try out the newest technologies in trucking? Make your voice heard on legislation affecting truckers nationwide?
The best way to get ahead of the game at work and meet innovative thinkers in the trucking industry is to attend some of the many conferences, hiring events, and celebrations that will be taking place across the nation throughout 2024.
Most conferences and events take place over the course of a few days and can be a large investment of time and money. This means that it’s important to start planning early and discuss your options with your employer. Many 2024 events have already opened for registration, so it’s time to mark your calendars and get ready for show time!
Midwest Truck & Trailer Show (Feb. 2-3, Peoria, Illinois)As one of the earliest truck shows to happen each year, this event provides a chance to network with fellow drivers, suppliers, and employers, while learning about the newest technologies and trends in the trucking industry. Coinciding with the Midwest Trucker Association’s Annual Conference, this free truck show can be a great break from the conference’s informative seminars, or a fun day for the whole family!
The show is free and open to the public, but click here for more information on vendors, exhibits, and the conference.
Mid America Trucking Show (March 21-23, Louisville, KY)There’s a reason this conference’s tagline is “experience the entire industry.” With over 850 exhibitors, 58,000 attendees, and more than 40 featured events, this is a conference you definitely don’t want to miss. Best known for its extensive, interactive exhibit displays, the Mid America Trucking Show brings together the best of the best in the trucking industry to show that the future really is now.
You can find more information on registration and upcoming exhibits here.
Salute to Women Behind the Wheel (March 22, Louisville, KY)Hosted each year by Women In Trucking, this event takes place at the Mid America Trucking Show and celebrates all female CDL drivers and their growing contributions and successes in the trucking industry. Featuring speeches, an annual award show, and WIT’s “Door Prizes for Donations” that raise money for scholarships, this feel-good event is free and worth a visit for any female truck driver.
For more information on the event schedule and exhibitors, click here.
Truckload Carriers Association Truckload Conference (March 23-26, Nashville)Join a crowd that’s likely to be more than 1,500 people next year at the annual Truckload Carriers Association conference. With an exhibitor hall featuring over 120 game changing products, this conference is a great way to meet industry experts and learn game changing driving practices.
Registration recently opened and space is sure to fill quickly, so be sure to check out more information here.
2024 Walcott Truckers Jamboree (July 11-13, Walcott, Iowa)As one of the most fun celebrations of the trucking industry nationwide, this annual event put on by Iowa 80, the world’s largest truck stop, is a must-see. While it’s not a traditional conference, over 175 exhibits make this a great destination to discover innovative technologies and see how far the industry has come while perusing the antique truck display. There’s also an Iowa Pork Chop Cookout, live country music, and even a truck beauty contest! What more could you ask for?
Admission and parking are free, but be sure to check out more information here.
Accelerate! Conference & Expo (Nov. 5-8, Dallas, TX)Hosted by the Women In Trucking Association, this fast-growing conference offers an annual chance to learn more about current transportation and supply chain issues and what resources exist to help women and other underrepresented communities in the trucking industry feel supported and heard. Featuring more than 70 educational sessions and an extensive exhibition hall, this unique conference provides all the tools for growth and success in this dynamic industry. You can find more information on the 2024 conference and how to register here.
Manifest: The Future of Logistics (Feb. 5-7, Las Vegas)Learn more about the future of the supply chain and evolving trends in logistics at one of the most exciting conferences of the year. With a stacked list of speakers, informative workshops on a range of subjects, and nightly entertainment, this event is essential for any driver looking to get ahead of the curve.
Registration has already opened for the public, so click here for more information on the agenda, venue, and how to register.
There are many conferences and industry events taking place throughout 2024, and these are only some. Local, regional, and national conferences all offer distinct opportunities to learn from like-minded individuals who are pushing the boundaries of the trucking industry each day.
If there’s a conference you believe we left out, or if you want to learn more about other industry opportunities in 2024, be sure to reach out to us on social media or read more on our Truck Driver Blog! The post Upcoming Events to Look Out for in 2024 appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/hXnMF83 Are you happy at your job? What could make you happier? These were some of the questions answered by over 500 truck drivers nationwide as part of Drive My Way’s 2023 Driver Happiness Survey. The results of this survey were recently released in a report now available to be downloaded as a PDF from this page.
If you’re unhappy in your current position, you aren’t alone. The survey responses highlighted the issues facing today’s truck drivers, and the factors that could increase driver satisfaction rates across the nation.
In 2023, only 51% of surveyed drivers said they were happy at their job. Younger and newer drivers especially expressed less satisfaction than older, more experienced drivers, with only 44% of drivers with 1-2 years of experience saying they were happy in their current position.
These surprising results revealed that driver happiness nationwide has decreased since Drive My Way’s last happiness report in 2019, when 54% of drivers said they were happy in their positions. Today’s drivers are also now nearly twice as likely to look for a new job than those surveyed in 2019.
When asked what employers could do better to increase satisfaction rates, many drivers agreed on two things: compensation and communication. Communication is seen as especially important by female drivers and new employees, with twice as many women as men reporting that communication was the one thing employers could improve.
To download Drive My Way’s Driver Happiness Report on the state of satisfaction among professional truck drivers in 2023, just click to this link and enter your information. https://hiring.drivemyway.com/2023-driver-happiness-report/
Drive My Way is a truck driver recruiting platform completely focused on drivers and their needs. We match company drivers and owner operators with CDL jobs based on more than 20 personal lifestyle preferences. If you believe we could help you reach your career goals, or you’re interested in being a part of our next Driver Happiness Survey, be sure to visit our driver platform here and sign up for our email alerts. The post Drive My Way’s 2023 Driver Happiness Report Available Now appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/fajuigk Thanksgiving might have already passed, but the tradition of recognizing and giving thanks to the hardworking and underappreciated people in your life can be continued all year round. This holiday season, there are many ways to give thanks by giving back to your community and the people who just don’t hear “thank you” often enough.
Here at Drive My Way, we know that truck drivers are truly the unsung heroes of our society, maintaining a critical part of our nation’s infrastructure by working in an industry that is built on giving. If you’re wondering how to keep the holiday spirit alive by giving back to fellow truckers and members of your community, keep reading for some of the best ways to give thanks this holiday season.
Giving Thanks to Truckers in NeedOne of the best ways to celebrate the season of giving is by helping out fellow truckers. Consider donating or volunteering for one of the organizations across the nation that make it their priority to support drivers in need.
Many truck drivers face illness or injuries that keep them from working, which can seriously impact the driver and their loved ones. By giving back to an organization like St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, you can provide assistance to drivers who have financial need due to current medical problems. If you believe this organization could benefit you or someone you know, there is also a simple way to apply for support on their website.
For some, access to a warm meal is taken for granted. That’s why supporting an organization like Meals for 18 Wheels is a great way to help fellow truckers who are unable to easily provide themselves and their loved ones a meal. Operating year round, the organization assists drivers nationwide, making it easy to give back to drivers in your community who are in need.
Some carriers also make it a priority to give back their drivers and community each holiday season. For more than 50 years, Transervice Logistics has delivered holiday presents to their employees’ children and grandchildren at their facilities across the country. The company also goes the extra mile by then doubling the amount of gifts in a donation to The Salvation Army in the metro New York area.
Giving Back to Your Community and BeyondIf you’re interested in helping more than just your fellow truck drivers this year, there are many ways to get involved.
Some of the most important ways to give back are available all year round, but especially make a difference around the holidays and during colder months. Consider donating or volunteering at a food drive, which provides many families their only holiday meal each season.
As temperatures continue to drop all winter long, another great way to help those in need in your community is to donate warm clothes to a local homeless shelter, clothing drive, or charity. For those looking to help our four-legged friends, volunteering or donating toys and food to a local animal shelter can make a huge difference for such an important cause.
Another way to support your community is to honor our fallen heroes. On Saturday, December 16, 2023, more than 2 million volunteers and supporters will honor fallen veterans at national cemeteries and more than 4,000 locations nationwide. If you’d like to participate, it’s not too late. There are a number of ways you can be a part of this mission:
Let this holiday season act as a reminder that you can make a difference in the lives of fellow truck drivers, families in need, and people in your community. There are countless ways to give back, whether by donating your time or money to an important cause.
If there’s an organization you think we left out, or you want to share a story of generosity and kindness in the trucking industry, be sure to reach out to us on social media and we’d love to learn more. The post Giving Thanks: How to Give Back this Holiday Season appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/fajuigk |
Archives
March 2023
Categories |