As the nation faces a shortage of commercial truck drivers, one of the biggest trucking companies is trying a new program to attract drivers.
Phoenix-based Swift joins other trucking companies participating in the United States Military Apprenticeship Program. It’s designed to help veterans transition into a variety of civilian careers.
Over a one-year period, apprentices undergo training and, in addition to their trucking company pay, they can collect a monthly educational check through their GI Bill.
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Despite many companies increasing pay and offering bonuses, turnover remains high with many drivers citing stress on their health, lack of respect and too much time away from their families as reasons for quitting. The American Trucking Associations report 60,000 open positions.
A bill currently in Congress would lower the age when commercial truck drivers could travel across from state lines from 21 to 18.