Drew Dixon
Trucking isn’t all about driving and the Florida Trucking Association (FTA) is launching a new campaign to get more people into the industry.
The “Jobs Beyond the Wheel” campaign is gearing up as the FTA wants to expand access to a comprehensive workforce in the trucking world in Florida that involves many positions that aren’t all driving big rigs. The FTA acknowledges there is a “critical shortage of skilled workers” and is seeking to draw more professionals into trucking jobs.
“Every truck on Florida’s roadways represents a team of skilled professionals making it all possible,” said Alix Miller, President and CEO of Florida Trucking Association. “The trucking industry offers exciting, high-earning careers, many of which we want to highlight. The campaign includes first-hand accounts from employees about the skills and paths they’ve developed. We want to showcase the dynamic opportunities for Floridians to discover how their talents fit in this essential industry where innovation meets opportunity.”
FTA officials point out that all aspects of the trucking industry supports just about every aspect of commerce in Florida. The new program that involves a new interactive website that demonstrates the multiple layers of the trucking industry and promotes different career opportunities in the field.
The website is more than just a promotional tool. It also includes career information, training resources, job listings and connections to companies employing trucking-related employees throughout the state. Many of those employees are hiring many positions that are well outside of driving.
Some of the jobs include diesel technicians who maintain and repair trucks. Manufacturing specialist positions are also needed for making parts for repairs. Brokers and customer operations professionals are also needed to manage customer relations and scheduling duties. Human resources, transportation attorneys, safety professionals and public relations and communications experts are also desired to help promote the industry.
“’Jobs Beyond the Wheel’ showcases different roles and people driving the trucking industry — for those looking for a job today, to college students looking at opportunities after graduation,” said Elizabeth Emmanuel, Vice President of Public Affairs at FTA and creative director of the project. “Whatever stage of life, or level of education, we want people to think of the transportation sector as a compelling career choice.”
The campaign is also funded in part by FloridaCommerce, the state business development agency.
