With a projected shortage of 40,000 drivers; it is more important than ever to give our hard working truckers some much deserved recognition.  Take a moment a thank a trucker for all they do to make our lives more enjoyable!  I recall trucking companies throwing bbqs and pot luck dinners for their drivers during this week as a way to say thank you.  How are you recognizing your drivers?

During the week of September 13-19, professional drivers throughout the United States will be recognized for their hard work and commitment to the trucking industry. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, observed each year by the American Trucking Associations (ATA), is a weeklong celebration of the hard work and commitment of professional drivers.

According to ATA data, as of 2012, there are 3.2 million people employed as truck drivers in the United States, with 7 million people employed throughout the economy in jobs related to trucking activity.*

As our post-recession economy slowly starts to gain some traction, the trucking industry is starting to experience a shortage of professional drivers. Most experts believe this shortage will become the next big challenge that the trucking industry will face.

An aging workforce, increased regulation, and job dissatisfaction are all contributing to this anticipated shortage. While there isn’t much the industry can do about the aging of the current workforce or increased regulation, there are things that can be done in the area of recruiting and then retaining good, professional drivers.

Many studies show that job dissatisfaction is a prime reason a driver leaves a company. The specific reasons range from pay and benefits to a belief that the driver isn’t valued by his/her employer.

Now is a good time to show your drivers they are valued; that what they do and how they do it is an asset to your organization. Start by using the week of September 13-19 to recognize your drivers.

Remember — a simple thank you can go a long way.

*Source: ATA: “American Trucking Trends 2014”