Benefits of a Trucking Career for Gen Z
Not only would Gen Z contribute to minimizing the logistics driver shortage, but there are plenty of benefits on offer for young people joining the profession.
Travel opportunities
For Gen Z looking to travel and see the world, the trucking profession presents a great opportunity to take new journeys and see new places. In a recent webinar hosted by The Inside Lane newsletter, Lindsey Trent, President of Next Gen Trucking Association, said: “Gen Z wants to make a difference, use technology, and explore the world. Trucking checks all those boxes – we just have to tell that story better.”
Tech use
Technology is already a big part of many Gen Z lives, and being involved with the logistics industry will mean they’ll be able to use tech such as fleet management and route optimization software. Similarly, they may find working with technology more appealing than older generations who may be less tech-literate.
Trent also said: “Younger generations have tech as standard, and it has to be used to give them more of a voice – which should be encouraged by companies too.”
Purposeful and stable career
Our latest data shows that 91% of respondents agree that America’s economy depends on fast, affordable, reliable freight movement. Truck drivers are therefore critical in maintaining the US economy, and will certainly be needed in the future as freight demand increases. In fact, our data shows that 63% of freight professionals have reported an increase in demand over the past year.
Trucking is therefore a good, stable career path for Gen Z. Likewise, Trent added that Gen Z “want to do work that matters, and they value experiences. Trucking offers that in spades. We just have to reach them early – in high schools, trade programs, and even on social media.”