Wilkes-Barre Institute Addresses Critical Truck Driver Shortage
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) — Fortis Institute’s CDL Program is drawing attention to the urgent need for new truck drivers amid a nationwide shortage. Program Director Frank Tunis attributes this gap to an aging workforce and the rising demand for timely deliveries driven by e-commerce giants like Amazon.
“Everyone expects their packages delivered the next day, and we need drivers to make that happen,” Tunis remarked. With over 40 years in truck driving, he emphasized that the profession is not merely a job but a lifestyle, shaped significantly by the experiences of many baby boomers now retiring.
“The older generation often embraced the lifestyle of being on the road, which is a challenging commitment for today’s youth,” Tunis noted, highlighting the difficulty in attracting younger individuals to the field. Many of the current students, like William Race, are motivated to enter the profession due to family traditions within truck driving. As Race nears the end of his training, he expresses a desire for local driving opportunities to remain close to family.
Fortis offers a comprehensive 480-hour CDL program combining classroom instruction and hands-on training. Tunis explained that this program not only covers essential driving skills but also the nuances of life on the road, from safety to meal preparation.
CDL candidates can start at 18 but must be 21 to drive out of Pennsylvania, with many older adults seeking a second career in truck driving. “We’re seeing an influx of younger individuals and those in their 30s and 40s looking to switch careers,” said Tunis.
For those interested in pursuing a commercial driver’s license, Fortis Institute provides valuable resources and training to meet the industry’s growing demands.
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