JOB

JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE

Demand for Drivers

Demand for drivers is expected to increase steadily over the next few years. According to the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council Study, it is expected that there will be:

• A 10% increase in the number of company drivers. (These are drivers who are fully employed by the company that hires them.)
• A 39% increase in the number of owner-operators. (These are drivers who own or lease their own truck and sell their services to other carriers.)
• A 23% increase in the number of leased drivers. (These are drivers who normally work for a driving agency and are contracted for a shorter term or specified period to drive trucks for a carrier.)

To summarize, the opportunities are there for you to join a growing and technologically advanced service industry where you can play an important role and start to develop a rewarding career for yourself.

For-hire sector

• Truckload (TL) sector
• Large carriers (50 or more vehicles)
• Long haul (more than two nights away)
• Transportation of petroleum/dry bulk/chemicals/tank goods.

Retirement of Drivers

Somewhere between 25% and 30% of the current truck driver population is expected to retire over the next ten years, opening up positions for new drivers. The rate of retirement is expected to be highest in Ontario and Quebec, and in long haul.

Driver Turnover:

High driver turnover continues to offer scope for new drivers entering the industry.

Training in the Driver Occupation

Driver trainers and safety supervisors feel that formal training is the most reliable way to learn the skills required to work as a truck driver.

Training issues for Drivers and Owner-Operators
The multi-tiered approach to driver training is suggested. It includes:

• Basic training
• On-the-job development of relatively inexperienced drivers
• Skills upgrading, to continue to develop experienced drivers in response to changing competitive or regulatory conditions.

Industry stakeholders are encouraged to improve the training of both new and experienced drivers and owner-operators by:

• Raising awareness of available training
• Improving access to training
• Finding ways for new drivers to gain practical experience
• Ensuring courses are up-to-date
• Skills upgrading for current driver

Canadian truck drivers and trucks also play an important role in the carrying of goods both into and out of the United States. Cross-border traffic is the fastest growing business segment with revenues growing at an annual rate of approximately 13% since 1980.