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Trucking Industry
As a NTI graduate, you should feel confident in your ability to obtain a good job as a driver in this strong trucking economy. The U.S. trucking industry faces a bright future as it enters the 21st century, according to the 5th annual U.S. Freight Transportation Forecast produced for the American Trucking Associations.
The study predicts that total tonnage in primary freight shipments will increase to 14.4 billion in 2008, with the trucking industry's share increasing to 64.3 percent. Further, of the $625 billion revenue to be derived from total freight shipments by 2008--87.2 percent will go to the trucking industry.
A major reason for the continuing rise in the freight share captured by trucking is the dovetailing of the industry's high service levels and efficiencies coupled with the modern-day, just-in-time shipping demands of manufacturers, distri butors, and retailers. Now, even the smallest motor carriers can link their trucks to global positioning satellites so dispatchers can monitor the location, direction, and speed of every vehicle and re-direct deliveries as needs arise.
The American Trucking Associations reports that at least until the year 2005 the trucking industry will need to hire 403,000 truck drivers each year to fill empty seats.
NTI can provide you with the skills that make you marketable, give you confidence and offer the opportunity for a lucrative career in the trucking industry.
What Most Trucking Companies Offer
Companies realize that in order to attract good drivers they need to make driving a comfortable and enjoyable profession. The result has been to provide higher pay, newer equipment, and excellent benefits.
First year drivers can earn over $35,000 their first year out of school, and $45-50,000 after a few years. Motivated drivers who own their own trucks can earn over $90,000 per year.
Most companies operate fleets of virtually new trucks. Many have spacious cabs with full beds, TVs/VCRs and refrigerators. The trucks have special "air ride" suspension systems to allow a comfortable drive. Most communication is now done by satellite and computer, which increases efficiency and reduces paperwork.
 Benefits offered by trucking companies have also improved to meet drivers' demands. Companies usually offer full insurance (health, dental, vision, life and disability), paid vacation/holiday/sick days, profit sharing, stock options, retirement plans such as 401(k)s, tuition reimbursement plans, ride-along programs, and other benefits. They also recognize that getting a driver home to his or her family frequently is very important. Good employers make every effort to get you home on a regular basis.
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