The trucking industry is a vital part of the global economy. It is responsible for transporting goods across long distances, and truck drivers make up one of the most significant employment sectors in the United States. However, as we step into the future, the trucking industry is expected to undergo significant changes. We will discuss what aspiring truck drivers can expect from their career in the coming years and how they can prepare for the future.
Autonomous Trucks
The most significant change that’s already underway is the introduction of autonomous vehicles. While this technology isn’t quite ready for full adoption, it is expected to revolutionize the trucking industry.
This change is likely to come incrementally, with autonomous trucks covering long stretches of highways while a human driver navigates complex city streets.
Aspiring truck drivers should stay up-to-date on these changes and consider learning about autonomous driving technology to remain competitive.
Emissions Regulations
Shifting emissions regulations could have a significant impact on the trucking industry. There is a growing potential for stricter emissions regulations in the coming years.
Trucking companies are becoming increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and are working to reduce their carbon footprint, including the use of electric trucks.
If you want to embark a career in trucking, be prepared to work with electric vehicles to take advantage of this trend.
Truck Driving Gigs
The “gig economy” may be making its way into the trucking industry. Companies like Uber have already created a gig work environment for rideshare drivers but imagine it being applied on the trucking industry.
Freelance drivers, enabled by technology platforms like “Uber for trucks“, could significantly impact the traditional truck driving career path.
Truck drivers could become more like individual contractors, working on short-term contracts instead of full-time positions. This is a great option for would-be truckers who don’t want to take on the demanding and stressful trucking lifestyle by only picking up driving gigs that works for them.
Aspiring truckers should consider how this would impact their career trajectory.
Truck Driver Lifestyle
Technology could enhance drivers’ lifestyles while on the road. Apps that help drivers locate truck parking spots, find the best deals on fuel, and stay connected to family and friends are already available, and this technology will continue to evolve.
Future professional truck drivers could expect to have access to immersive virtual reality experiences, personalized health monitoring, and more. A driver’s quality of life while on the road could become an attractive perk for prospective employers.
If you’re considering to become a CDL driver, be ready to adopt and embrace technology as it will enhance your life on the road, or at the very least, technology will alleviate some of the stress that comes with truck driving.
Safety
Safety will continue to be a critical focus in the trucking industry. In the future, expect to see new vehicle safety technologies, more data-driven safety measures, and even more stringent regulations around drug and alcohol testing.
Trucking companies are aware of the risks that come with hiring drivers, and they will do much more to reduce them.
Takeaway
The trucking industry is continually evolving, and future truck drivers must adapt to meet the new demands of the industry. Technological and environmental shifts, along with changing business models, will all impact truck drivers. However, with flexibility and adaptability, the prospects for a strong and fulfilling truck driving career remain excellent. Stay informed about the evolving industry trends, and consider broadening your skill set to keep up with the future of truck driving.
Marina was in corporate communications for over 15 years before becoming a freelance writer for TruckersTraining.com. She's been writing about transportation, and the supply chain and trucking industry for over five years. Her father was in the trucking and logging business which exposed her to the industry. Her passions include travel, nature and entrepreneurship.
