5 Reasons to Become a Truck Driver
It is no secret that the job market has been volatile due to the economy. Job security is becoming rare across most industries. Finding a career that gives you the kind of income you need alongside suitable benefits is becoming increasingly challenging. However, there is one industry with a high demand for qualified professionals that could give you the opportunity you have been looking for.
According to the American Trucking Associations, there is a considerable shortage of professional truck drivers in the US to meet the growing demands of the industry. ATA estimated that the shortage of professional truck drivers would hit 80,000 in 2021. The figure is alarming for the industry, but it is good news for people looking to switch to a new career with better job security.
If you have been on the fence about considering a career as a licensed truck driver, this post will tell you some reasons to become a truck driver that can help you make a well-informed decision.
1. The Pay is Great
Switching a career for better opportunities only makes sense if you get the chance to earn a good amount of money. The average truck driver’s salary in the US in 2022 is $62,389. Entry-level drivers earn $46,804 per year, and the most experienced professionals in the industry can earn up to $85,000 per year. Provided you are working with the right carrier, there is a lot of money to be made as a professional truck driver.
2. You Don’t Need to Spend Years to Start
Becoming a licensed truck driver does not require going to college for four years to get the necessary certification. In fact, Commercial Driver’s License training programs can take as little as seven weeks to complete. Depending on where you work after your training, there might be a few more requirements — but you will definitely not spend years preparing for a career. You can learn on the road and quickly earn a decent income as a professional truck driver.
3. The Benefits are Worth it
One of the most important reasons to become a truck driver is the benefits that come with the job. Many truck driver jobs include employee benefits, even for entry-level professionals. Depending on the carrier you work with, you may be entitled to getting health insurance, dental coverage, and vision coverage. Full-time employees might also be eligible for life insurance. Some carriers also offer retirement savings plans and bonuses, among other benefits.
4. You Get Job Stability
Another reason to become a truck driver is the safety of income. Truck drivers do not just get compensated well for their services. They also have plenty of available work. The demand for goods that need to be transported is high, and there are not enough professional truck drivers to meet the demand. It means that you will not need to worry about finding loads when working with the right carrier.
5. You Get to Travel the Country
Do you enjoy your freedom and want to travel the country? If you are a fan of road trips and love driving long distances, there is no better way to experience the country than as a professional truck driver. Professional truck drivers are some of the most well-traveled professionals in the country.
Do You Want to Become a Professional Truck Driver?
If the reasons to become a truck driver sound good to you, it might be the right time to make the leap and pursue a career in this field. Consider working with S.T.I Trans, Inc. if you are ready to make the switch to a more lucrative career with attractive benefits. With over two decades of experience in the trucking industry, you can count on us to set you up with the right opportunities for a successful career in an industry you will fall in love with. Visit our Careers page to find out more.
