As a military veteran, entering the workforce and readjusting to civilian life can be challenging.
However, many veterans have found that transitioning to a career in truck driving offers a unique opportunity to leverage their skills and experiences gained during military service. Truck driving not only provides a stable job with potential for continued career advancement, it also allows for a sense of independence and adventure that resonates with many who have served.
Interested in finding out why one in every 10 truck drivers is a veteran? Keep reading to discover the advantages of truck driving jobs for veterans and why your experience could set you up for success in this important and dynamic field.
Transferable Skills
One factor that often attracts military veterans to truck driving jobs is the overlap in applicable skills, experiences, and training.
There are many qualities learned in the service that make veterans well-qualified for the transportation industry, such as:
- Mental stamina
- Dependability
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Problem solving
- Self discipline
- Situational awareness
Beyond these important qualities, some of the hard skills taught in the military can also come in handy for veterans looking to enter the trucking industry. In fact, many veterans are able to waive the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) skills test if they have had prior experience operating heavy-duty vehicles and possess a military CDL.
A history of working with or carrying hazardous materials in the military can also qualify veterans for taking higher paying loads that are usually reserved for truck drivers with a hazmat certification.
G.I. Bill Benefits
The “G.I. Bill” is used to refer to a wide range of programs that exist to support military veterans adjusting to civilian life. Veterans can use their G.I. Bill benefits to help cover the costs of obtaining a CDL from an approved CDL school.
The G.I. Bill can potentially cover all the costs of CDL school, including tuition, books, and supplies. Veterans just need to look for schools that partner with the Veterans Administration as part of the G.I. apprenticeship program to receive these benefits through the VA.
Job Security & Professional Development
The demand for truck drivers remains as high as ever, allowing veterans to rely on this stability as they transition from military service. Entering the field of commercial truck driving provides veterans an opportunity to receive steady pay and benefits while potentially advancing their career through further training and professional development.
The trucking industry offers numerous pathways for professional development, making it an attractive career choice for veterans who value growth and advancement.
Many trucking companies provide comprehensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and clear career progression routes. Veterans can start as entry-level drivers and, with experience and further certification, move up to roles such as trainers, fleet managers, or even independent owner-operators.
Quick Transition
Finally, another great benefit to beginning a career in truck driving is the quick transition veterans can make into the field.
In comparison to bachelor’s or associate degrees that take 2-4 years to complete, the average time taken to receive a CDL after attending a full-time driver training program is just seven weeks.
Additionally, many trucking companies actively recruit veterans and may offer incentives such as tuition reimbursement for CDL training, sign-on bonuses, and specialized veteran training programs. These initiatives not only facilitate a smoother entry into the industry but also recognize and reward the unique skills that veterans bring to the table.
Wondering what are the next steps to pursue a career in truck driving? Head to our Truck Driver Blog to learn more about CDL schools, mentorship programs, and getting started behind the wheel.
