Is Trucking A Good Career Option for Veterans?
Trucking can be an excellent option for military veterans seeking a new career. Many veterans have the qualities that make them great employees in the trucking industry: they’re reliable, dependable, motivated, and dedicated.
In addition, many veterans and retired military personnel have safety experience, are used to working as part of a team, and many are naturally passionate about trucks!
If that isn't enough, being a truck driver also comes with job security, benefits, flexibility, routine, and stability. Let's look at why trucking is a popular career for military veterans.
Safety Experience
Veterans are accustomed to teamwork and benefit from solid work ethics. They're also familiar with basic routine tasks, so they can easily adjust their schedules.
Veterans may not be used to driving long distances, but they've already developed safety awareness. This means that veterans will rarely make dangerous mistakes like speeding or running red lights—instead, they're more likely to focus on being safe rather than on performing quickly.
Solid Work Ethic
Veterans are used to working with others. If you have been a part of the military and served in any capacity, you likely understand how important it is to work as part of a team. Working as part of a team also means being able to work under pressure and in fast-paced environments.
Many veterans have put their lives on the line for others, so they know what it's like to be under pressure when it matters most. They've learned how important it is not only for yourself but for everyone around you that your job gets done safely and efficiently—and that there may be no second chances if you don't get things right the first time around!
Routine Tasks
If you've served in the military, you've probably done a lot of routine tasks. This can be a good thing when it comes to your trucking career. Veterans are accustomed to working in teams and are comfortable doing what’s required, regardless of the situation.
Veterans also have experience working under pressure and long hours, making them great candidates for companies that operate 24/7 or require their drivers to travel on short notice during rush hour traffic conditions.
Veterans who were stationed near ports know how important fast-paced environments are for shipping and receiving shipments on time, as well as meeting deadlines set by customers with strict delivery deadlines.
Passion for Trucks
Veterans who have a passion for trucks and the open road will find that trucking is a good career option. Because of this, it’s important to decide if you are interested in trucks before signing up with a trucking company. One way to do this is by talking to veterans who work in the industry and asking them about their experiences.
Job Security
If you're considering a career in trucking, there are several aspects to remember. First, the industry is growing at an impressive rate—the number of jobs increased by 16% between 2016 and 2026, which makes trucking a stable option for veterans.
Second, there are many different types of opportunities available in the field. This means if you have specific interests or skills that don't fit into one area (such as heavy machinery), you may be able to find something that better suits your needs.
Lastly, all veterans share their dedication and commitment to protecting our country's freedom—truck driving is an excellent way for them to continue this mission while earning money!
Benefits & Flexibility
The benefits and flexibility of a truck driving career path is especially appealing to veterans. First, you can choose the type of trucking job that suits your interests and skills best. You might be a commercial driver, an expeditor, or a load planner. There are countless other jobs available in the world of trucking that offer exciting opportunities for growth and advancement.
Second, you can work either full-time or part-time—whatever works best with your schedule!
Third, truck driving is an excellent option for returning soldiers who want something flexible while, but also dependable, especially when it comes to medical benefits.
At Doug Andrus Distributing we provide employees and their families generous benefits including medical coverage, dental coverage, vision coverage, flexible spending, life insurance, and disability insurance.
We also offer all of our truck drivers an industry leading 401k that matches their families and personal needs. We match 50% of up to 8% of your gross contributions. We also have a 1% profit match to the 401K regardless of whether you contribute.
Community & Teamwork
A trucking career can give veterans the feeling of community and teamwork they once felt in the military. Veterans can be a part of a team again, helping each other out and working together toward a common goal.
In trucking, you travel around and meet new people daily. You get to do something significant for your country by transporting goods from one place to another safely and on time. You’re not just sitting at a desk all day—you’re meeting new people, making friends with other veterans who have served our country too, and doing something meaningful!
If you are looking for an exciting career after serving in the military, consider becoming a professional truck driver!
Diverse Opportunities
Trucking is a diverse industry with various opportunities for you to choose from. You can be a long-haul trucker, short-haul trucker, local or regional driver, freight hauler, passenger carrier—the list goes on!
To learn more about the different types of trucking jobs, check out our guide here.
There are heavy-duty and light-duty options, tractor-trailers versus straight trucks—refrigerated freight, and dry van—no matter your situation, there's probably something that will fit your needs. The industry is vast, so there's plenty of opportunity if you're ready to start your career as a professional truck driver!
How to get Started in a Trucking Career
There are many factors to consider when choosing a trucking career. You should look for trucking companies that offer veterans programs, tuition assistance, benefits, and more. If you're looking for a work/life balance and a good reputation, plenty of options can help you accomplish your goals.
To learn more about how to get started in a new truck driving career, check out our guide here.
Many kinds of companies offer these kinds of programs to veterans. One example is Doug Andrus Distributing—we have an excellent reputation for working with drivers and ensuring you get the benefits you deserve.
In conclusion, trucking may be a great option for many veterans. It can provide you with the feeling of community and teamwork you once felt in the military while providing a flexible schedule and job security. The best part? You don’t have to leave your family behind! Most trucking companies will allow their drivers to take time off whenever they need it.