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Infrastructure improvements related to the Truck Driving program at IECC’s West Richland Center are underway thanks to a U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development grant providing $300,000 (50% of the $600,000 total funds). Construction of a concrete ramp and pad that connect to a new loading dock are timely investments as The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the economy will need more truckers as the demand for goods increases. The Illinois Department of Employment Security projects a steady growth of 5 – 6% over the next several years for the southern and southeastern regions of Illinois. According to the American Trucking Associations, in order to meet the nation’s freight demand, the trucking industry will need to hire 1.1 million new drivers over the next decade and attracting more demographic diversity into the industry may be key.
“The pad and dock will be utilized for hands-on backing drills and exercises. We will be able to practice real backing scenarios and better prepare our students for real-world driving,” said Joe Brown, instructor of the program. “It’s also important to note that this career path is not just for men. We have had many women take this program and obtain their CDL and immediately enter the workforce. While truck driving is still predominantly men, many women are entering this field for the lucrative pay and benefits that top companies are paying in today’s economy with driver shortages on the rise.”
Al Peavler of Peavler Trucking was contacted for comment on both the shortage of drivers and women in trucking. “It’s not a good situation and I don’t see any improvement in sight. Young people are just not interested in driving a truck. We’ve had one female driver and she did a good job. In the past, the physical demands have been a factor, but more and more we have drop and hook jobs that do not require heavy lifting, making it a more suitable career for women. I have no issues with hiring a woman.”
Over the years gender has played a significant role in the selection of a career and technical education (CTE) program. As recently as the 1970’s women would have likely been dissuaded from pursuing a truck driving certificate. In addition to the physical demands, the perception was that it was just not a suitable career choice for women. While great strides have been made, there continues to be a bias that’s detrimental to attracting students to CTE programs that are nontraditional for their gender. Of particular concern is the wage disparity when comparing male-dominated programs and careers with female-dominated programs and careers. Bringing more women into the Truck Driving program will not only help with the shortage of drivers, but also increase earning potential and help promote gender equity in higher education.
The Truck Driving program is four weeks and includes classroom and driving simulator time prior to actual tractor-trailer operation by the students. The focus is on training entry-level drivers the necessary skills to safely operate commercial vehicles. Once completed, students are licensed CDL holders ready to begin new careers. For more information, contact Wabash Valley College at 618-262-8641.
