What the Future Holds for CDL Drivers and the Trucking Industry

If you’re considering a career as a truck driver, you’ve picked a great time to explore the industry. You may have heard otherwise from people familiar with the industry, but trucking remains one of the most critical sectors in the U.S. Not only does it serve as the backbone of the economy by transporting goods and materials across the country, but it’s also beginning an upward trend out of last year’s economic downturn. You may still be concerned or skeptical, so let’s take a closer look at the current economic state of trucking, what’s on the horizon, and why this could be the perfect time for you to pursue your Commercial Driver’s License.

At New Sound CDL School, we offer comprehensive CDL courses for Class A Manual or Automatic, Class B, and CDL Upgrades in Fife, Washington. Apply today or reach out for more information.

The Backbone of America: Trucking Matters

Imagine life without trucks. Grocery store shelves would be empty, manufacturing plants would grind to a halt, and online orders would never reach your doorstep. In fact, 72.6% of all goods in the U.S. are transported by truck, making the trucking industry the foundation of our nation. 

Here are a few eye-opening stats about the trucking sector from American Trucking Associations:

• Revenue: In 2023, trucking generated a whopping $987 billion, highlighting its significance to the U.S. economy.
• Volume: Trucks moved approximately 10.93 billion tons of freight last year, underscoring their vital role in logistics.
• Workforce: Over 3.5 million truck drivers operate in the U.S., making it one of the largest employment sectors in the country.

The Current Landscape: Growth Ahead

Like every industry, trucking also faces its challenges. If you have friends or family in the industry, you may have heard talk of a recent downturn. It’s true. Economic shifts have led to a temporary slowdown in freight demand, primarily due to rising borrowing costs and cautious consumer spending due to the overall state of our economy and rising inflation. But before you get discouraged, let’s break this down:

• Cyclical Nature of Trucking: The trucking industry operates in cycles, with ups and downs based on economic conditions. While there’s currently a slight dip in freight volumes, industry experts at ACT Research are predicting a slow rebound in the coming years. As of this month, December 2024, we’ve exited the "bottoming phase" and can expect growth trends moving forward. While it can be difficult to trust forecasting “experts,” this team of researchers had a 98.5% accuracy rate on their industry forecasting across the past 12 months.
• Job Stability: Even during slowdowns, trucking remains a stable career. Goods will always need to be moved, and companies are constantly looking for skilled drivers. Don’t let a temporary disruption scare you from entering a career with a longstanding place in the American infrastructure.

The Driver Shortage: Why It’s Good News for You

Along with the overall economic downturn, the trucking industry is experiencing a significant shortage of drivers—a challenge for companies but an opportunity for you. The American Trucking Associations estimated a shortage of 78,000 drivers a couple years ago, with this number expected to climb to 160,000 by 2030. This leads to a very curious question:

Why is there a shortage?

• Retirements: Many experienced drivers are aging out of the workforce as the large population of Baby Boomers reach retirement age. We see the same trend across various skilled trades, like plumbing, electrical, and more.
• Demand Growth: The rise of e-commerce has increased the need for deliveries. As technology continues to innovate our lives and expectations, the trucking industry is being stretched to meet consumer demands.

For new drivers, this shortage means there are plenty of job opportunities and competitive pay. Companies are eager to attract fresh talent and often offer sign-on bonuses, benefits, and higher starting salaries to fill these gaps.

Trucking’s Bright Future: What to Expect

The trucking industry is gearing up for exciting changes, driven by technological advancements, environmental concerns, and evolving consumer demands. Here’s what the future holds:

1. Embracing Technology

Trucks are getting smarter. New driving systems and advanced safety features are already making their way into the industry. At the same time, experts expect that fully self-driving trucks are still a decade or more away. Trucking will only become safer and more efficient for CDL holders throughout the next decade or two.

2. Enhanced Connectivity

The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing fleet management. Real-time data tracking helps drivers and companies monitor vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, and delivery schedules more effectively. This connectivity ensures smoother operations and fewer surprises on the road, once again improving the experience, efficiency, and safety of commercial trucking.

3. Job Security

Despite all of these technological advancements, human drivers remain essential. Autonomous systems are meant to assist, not replace, drivers—especially for jobs requiring complex decision-making, customer interaction, and specialized freight handling. While the future is still as uncertain as ever, the trucking industry will always remain as a core aspect of our society. Joining a fleet now as a CDL holder will allow you to grow and change alongside the industry.

Why Trucking is Still a Great Career Choice

For someone considering a career in trucking, the benefits go far beyond a paycheck. Here’s why this could be the perfect fit for you:

1. Stability: With goods always needing to be moved, trucking provides job security in virtually any economic climate. Even in the midst of downturns and technological advancements, the industry is a massive and vital component of our nation’s economy and personal lives.
2. Flexibility: Whether you prefer local routes that let you be home every night or long-haul trips across the country, there’s a role for everyone as a CDL driver.
3. Room for Growth: Starting as a company driver? You can eventually become an owner-operator, take on specialized freight, or even move into training and management roles. The logistics industry is diverse and offers countless opportunities in every town and city across America.
4. Earning Potential: After just one month of training, you can step into a skilled career with high earning potential and a substantial starting salary.

How to Get Started: Your Path to a CDL

Thinking about starting a career in trucking? The first step is earning your Commercial Driver’s License, and at New Sound CDL School, we make it easy. Our program is designed to set you up for success with hands-on training, expert instruction, and job placement assistance to launch your career. In Washington state, it’s required that you receive accredited training from a school like our own before you can be qualified to take your CDL exam.

Comprehensive Training

We believe that CDL training isn’t just about passing the test; it’s about creating confident, skilled drivers. At New Sound CDL, you’ll learn everything you need, including:

• Vehicle Inspections: Master pre-trip inspections to ensure your vehicle is road-ready and safe.
• Driving Techniques: Practice essential skills like backing, turning, coupling trailers, and navigating tight spaces.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Understand federal and state regulations, from hours-of-service rules to safety protocols.

Our program ensures you’re not only prepared for the CDL exam but ready to excel in your trucking career from day one.

Expert Instructors

Our experienced instructors bring decades of real-world knowledge to the classroom and training yard.

• Personalized Guidance: Instructors provide one-on-one feedback to help you improve and build confidence.
• Real-World Tips: Learn practical advice for handling challenges on the road, from managing long-haul schedules to navigating heavy traffic.
• Supportive Environment: Our team fosters a positive atmosphere, making it easy to learn and succeed.

Job Placement Assistance

A CDL opens the door to countless job opportunities, and we’re here to help you find the right one.

• Industry Connections: We’ve built relationships with top transportation companies to connect you with job openings.
• Career Prep: Get help with resumes, interviews, and finding positions that match your goals.

How Long and How Much?

At New Sound CDL School, most students complete training in four weeks with our full-time program. For those who need flexibility, part-time options are also available.

While CDL training is an investment, the returns are significant. Our competitive tuition includes all resources you’ll need to succeed. Plus, we offer:

• Payment Plans: Spread out costs to make training more affordable.
• Financial Aid: Scholarships and grants may be available to you.

Reach out to us for more information on financial assistance.

Your Future Starts Here

Trucking is a stable, lucrative career with room to grow, and New Sound CDL School is your partner in success. With our comprehensive training, expert guidance, and job placement support, you’ll be on the road to a rewarding career in no time.

Ready to get started? Contact New Sound CDL School today and take the first step toward your future in trucking. The road is waiting—let’s get you there!