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      Monthly Archives - February 2023

      Indiana CDL Scholarship: New Castle and Ivy Tech Team Up!

      Future Drivers, Get Ready To Start Your Engine! Exciting news coming out of Indiana! The New Castle Career Center (NCCC), a vocational education center located in New Castle, Indiana has teamed up with Ivy Tech, a leading Indiana community college. Together they’re using their educational forces for the future of trucking. The two have come together to launch an awesome new program for high school students who want to pursue a career in trucking and other supply chain jobs. A CDL Scholarship? If you’re in your junior or senior year of high school, you can take part in the new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Program. This program offers two pathways to choose from: the Transportation Pathway and the Supply Chain Pathway. Transportation Pathway The Transportation Pathway is for seniors who want to earn six credit hours while getting their CDL A or B license certifications. During the program, you’ll learn all about safety and take part in hands-on learning experiences. In the second semester, you’ll actually work in the transportation industry four days a week while continuing your studies. This is an excellent opportunity to get actually qualifiable, hands-on experience while continuing to learn about the transportation industry. Supply Chain Pathway This pathway is open to anyone who wants to earn six credit hours and may participate in the program for one or two years. During the Supply Chain Pathway program, you will: Logistics Management Supply Chain Strategy Planning and Design Customer Service Purchasing Forecasting Warehouse Management Transportation Systems In your second year, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in work-based learning and gain valuable experience. Only Six Spots Available – Apply Now! Space is currently limited for the Transportation Pathway, with only six students accepted into the program. To apply, you must have reliable transportation to Ivy Tech in New Castle, where all classes will be held. Don’t hesitate – this is an incredible opportunity to pursue your dreams and gain valuable experience in an essential and growing industry. Henry County is very fortunate to have such a strong Career Center in our area. Mackenzie Jackson, Director of the Career Center, is always looking to build program offerings for students that will make them a skilled commodity in high wage high demand professions when they graduate… I really wish i was given this kind of opportunity as a young person Jeanie Hamblin-FoxSite Director, Ivy Tech Get Ready to Start Your Engines! As the trucking industry continues to evolve, many discussions have focused on self-driving vehicles. However, Indiana is taking a unique approach by investing in the education and training of future drivers. By doing so, they’re not only revitalizing the industry but also laying a strong foundation for a promising future. Are you ready to be part of this exciting future? Don’t wait, apply now for the CDL Program at the New Castle Career Center and start your journey towards an exciting career in the transportation and supply chain industries. For more information, call (765) 593-6680 today! As always, If you’re in search of CDL A, B, or warehouse positions, check out our open positions. And if you need staffing solutions for commercial driving or industrial positions, be sure to explore our offerings.

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      More Love & Recalls: The Latest in the World of Trucking

      Truckers, take note: the world of trucking is constantly evolving, and there are some exciting updates on the horizon. Love’s Travel Stops is expanding its services and locations, with new travel stops, truck care locations, and restaurants set to open in 2023. Meanwhile, BP has acquired TravelCenters of America, adding 280 travel centers to its existing US convenience and mobility business. In safety news, over 70,000 Freightliner and Western Star vehicles are being recalled. Keep reading to stay in the know about the latest updates in the world of trucking. 70,000 Trucks Over 70,000 Freightliner and Western Star vehicles produced over the past six years are affected by a recall due to modular valve corrosion that may cause brake pull, potentially leading to a safety hazard. This little bit of corrosion is enough to cause the vehicle to begin pulling to one side when the brakes are applied which can ultimately cause the driver vehicle to lose control. The affected vehicles include Freightliner Cascadia trucks produced between 2017-2023, Western Star 47X, Western Star 49X, and 2022 Freightliner 114SD vehicles. But don’t worry, Daimler Truck North America has got your back! They’ll replace the front brake modular valves free of charge. Customers can expect to receive owner notification letters by April 10th, and they can contact DTNA customer service for further information. Pivot! That’s not all, folks! The second recall is for a potential problem with a foldable upper bunk in certain 2021-23 Freightliner Coronado tractors. The mounting pivot bolt for the bed may loosen, which could lead to an increased risk of injury. Daimler Truck North America is on it again. The company will tighten the pivot bolts for free at Freightliner dealers, so you can rest easy knowing you’ve got your best foot forward and are safe on the road. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by April 5th, and owners can contact DTNA customer service from there. The recall number for this issue is FL964. So there you have it, truckers! Make sure to check if your vehicle is affected by these recalls and get in touch with DTNA customer service at 800-547-0712 for any questions or concerns. Stay safe out there on the road! America’s Best Truck Stop & More Truck stops are all the rage this week! From app-based rankings to surprise champions, we’ve got all the latest news to keep you in the know. here are just a few quick snippets to ensure you’re up to date on the latest. If you saw our article earlier this week you’ll know that Trucker Path, the nation’s leading navigation app for commercial drivers, released their comprehensive list of the best truck stops in North America based on real data they’ve collected from real drivers using their app. The 2022 champion is a Kwik Trip out of Iowa if you can believe it! BP Spends $1.3 Billion BP has acquired TravelCenters of America, a popular travel center operator, for a whopping $1.3 billion cash deal. This move will add 280 travel centers to BP’s existing US convenience and mobility business, all strategically located on major highways across the country. Not only that, but this acquisition is expected to nearly double BP’s global convenience gross margin and bring growth opportunities for four of their five transition growth engines. BP plans to invest heavily in these areas over the next decade, with around half of their annual and cumulative investments going into convenience, bioenergy, and EV charging. According to BP, this is a smart business move that is expected to deliver big returns and be accretive to free cash flow per share from 2024. In other words, we can expect to see some exciting new offerings from BP in the near future. With convenience and mobility at the forefront, BP is taking things to the next level, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for us! More Love to Give Love’s Travel Stops announced it is expanding its services and locations in 2023, with plans to open 25 new travel stops, 15 new truck care locations, and add 30 new restaurants. The company will also remodel older locations and expand the number of RV hookups, in addition to adding new services and partnerships with top brands. Love’s President, Shane Wharton, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation and strategic growth, stating that Love’s will continue to find new ways to offer good value at competitive prices across the Love’s Family of Companies. Professional drivers will have access to exclusive partnerships with Interstate Batteries and Daimler Truck North America, as well as additional truck care and maintenance services. Love’s other entities, including Musket, Gemini Motor Transport, and Trillium Energy Solutions, are also set to expand and add new services. With plans to add 2,000 employees across the country in 2023, Love’s is poised for major growth in the coming year. Stay Safe Out There! Whether you’re a trucker, a fleet owner, or just a curious reader, there’s always something new and exciting happening in this ever-changing field. From Love’s Travel Stops’ expansion plans to BP’s acquisition of TravelCenters of America, the trucking industry is poised for major growth in the coming years. And with a focus on safety and innovation, the future of trucking looks brighter than ever. As always, If you’re in search of CDL A, B, or warehouse positions, check out our open positions. And if you need staffing solutions for commercial driving or industrial positions, be sure to explore our offerings.

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      Top 100 Truck Stops: The Best of North America

      Are you in search of the best truck stops? Whether you’re a long-time truck driver or a casual traveller, Trucker Path has done the hard work for you. The nation’s leading navigation apps for truckers, has just announced their list of the “Top 100 Truck Stops”. This comprehensive list features both chain and independent facilities offering the best parking, food, and other critical amenities. According to Trucker Path’s CMO, Chris Oliver, these stops are the best of the best, chosen based on the their offerings and customer service. Top 100? To create this year’s list, Trucker Path gathered over 8.5 million in-app ratings, reviews, and feedback from drivers. With so much data available they were able to provide a transparent and honest representation of the nearly 8,000 truck stops and fuel locations available in Trucker Path’s system. Let’s take a look at the top 5 stops on the list! And be sure to check out the full list, which we’ll provide later in this article. 1. Kwik Star #1071 First place spot goes to Kwik Star #1071 in Davenport, Iowa. With a whopping 35,000 square feet of space, this truck stop offers plenty of room for drivers to relax and recharge without feeling short on space. Featuring a full-service deli, a game room, and even a movie theater, Kwik Star #1071 has something for everyone. 2. Loves Travel Stop #827 Coming in a close second is Love’s Travel Stop #827 in Moses Lake, Washington. This stop boasts a large parking lot, perfect for finding a place to rest, as well as a restaurant serving up classic American cuisine. The stop also features a tire shop, convenience store, and laundry facility all on-site, Love’s has everything you need for a successful road trip. 3. Rainbow Trucker’s Lounge In third place is Rainbow Trucker’s Lounge in West Wendover, Nevada. This cozy and welcoming truck stop features a restaurant, casino, and bar, as well as showers and laundry facilities. And with a lounge area perfect for unwinding and letting loose for a bit after a long day on the road, Rainbow Trucker’s Lounge is a must-visit destination. 4. Bert’s Travel Plaza For a classic truck stop experience, check out Bert’s Travel Plaza in Wellsville, Kansas. This family-owned and operated stop has been serving truckers since 1973, with quality service and amenities that can’t be beat. Grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, fill up your tank at the gas station, and even pick up souvenirs at the gift shop. 5. Workman’s Travel Center Rounding out the top 5 is Workman’s Travel Center Ozark in Ozark, Arkansas. While offering a range of amenities, including a restaurant, showers, and laundry facilities, this stop is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability. With solar panels powering operations and electric vehicle charging stations available, Workman’s is a top choice for eco-conscious truckers. Well, there you have it – the top 5 truck stops in North America! Whether you’re a seasoned trucker or hitting the road for a road trip, these destinations are sure to make your journey a little bit smoother. As promised below you’ll find the full list of 100 truck stops! Happy trucking and stay safe out there! As always, If you’re in search of CDL A, B, or warehouse positions, check out our open positions. And if you need staffing solutions for commercial driving or industrial positions, be sure to explore our offerings.

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      FMCSA: What Do Drivers Think Of Autonomous Trucking?

      As the world rapidly changes, the trucking industry is no exception. Are you a CDL holder or trucking enthusiast? Do you want to have a say in the future of the trucking industry? The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) wants to hear from you! The FMCSA wants your opinion! They are proposing some new regulations for the incoming age of automated trucks that don’t require human drivers, known as Level 4 and 5 automation. As the experts who live and breathe this industry, your input and thoughts are invaluable to shaping the self-driving future. Different Levels? Level 4 and 5 automation are two of the highest levels of automation in the commercial motor vehicle industry. At Level 4 automation, the vehicle is able to operate without human input or oversight under certain conditions, such as on highways. However, a human driver may still be required to take over the driving task in certain situations. At Level 5 automation, the vehicle can fully operate on its own in any condition without the need for a human driver. This level of automation is the ultimate goal for companies investing in self-driving technology. As the technology advances, it has the potential to greatly increase safety and efficiency on the roads, but it also raises concerns about job displacement and the need for new regulations to ensure public safety. Your Voice is Critical: That’s why the FMCSA has opened a comment period, giving you the chance to share your thoughts on a range of issues related to the proposed regulations. The comment period is open until March 20th, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to shape the future of the industry. The agency is seeking public comments on topics such as the requirement for carriers to submit safety management controls, the need for new inspection equipment, and the potential for remote assistants to hold a commercial driver’s license. We’ve gone ahead and broken down these subjects below. Be sure to take a look and share your thoughts with the FMCSA. They are critical to shaping the future of the trucking industry! 1. Notification Requirement: Should carriers have to notify the FMCSA before operating Level 4 and 5 CMVs in interstate commerce without a human driver. What do you think? Is this a solid requirement or do you think there is a more impactful process that could be taking place? 2. Data Collection: Are there any particular data sets that you believe could be critical to monitoring how safe these vehicles are out on the road? 3. Remote Assistants & Requirements: What qualifications and limitations should be imposed on remote assistants who may monitor Level 4 or 5 ADS-equipped CMVs? Should they have to obtain a CDL or other certifications? Have you noticed any specific conditions or experiences faced on the road that you think have the potential to get overlooked? 4. Inspection Requirements: What additional inspection requirements should there be for Level 4 or 5 ADS-equipped CMVs in order to reduce overall safety risks associated with these new technologies? Next Steps If you come up with an answer to any of these questions while reading, make sure to submit it to the FMCSA so that they can hear your opinion. Having such open access to something that can have such a significant impact on our futures is a rare opportunity. Thank you for taking the time to read this article. If you find yourself interested in learning more about the future of trucking and automation in commercial vehicles, be sure to check out our article on the Tesla Semi! As always, if you are looking for Class A or B positions be sure to check out our openings here

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      Wishing You A Very Happy Valentines Day!

      To Our Valued Drivers, Associates, & Clients, Happy Valentine’s Day! On this special day, we at Optimum Logistic Solutions would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for each and every one of you. To Our Top-Talent Drivers & Industrial Staff Thank you for your hard work and commitment to excellence. Your tireless efforts ensure that everyday people receive what they need on time, every time. You are the backbone of not only our company, but our daily way of life. Your work has infinite impact. We are beyond proud to have you as a critical member of our team. Thank you for joining the Optimum Family. To Our Unrivaled Clients Thank you for entrusting us with your logistics and delivery needs. Your confidence in us means the world to us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you. We are committed to providing you with the best possible service, and we look forward to continuing to be your go-to experts in transportation and logistics personnel. Together, We Make a Difference In The Transport Industry, We have been a part of this industry for nearly half a century. We continue to grow alongside you and are proud to be a part of this critical community. From All of Us At Optimum Logistic Solutions, On this day, we want to wish you a season filled with friends, family, love, happiness, and too many memorable moments to count. Happy Valentines Day & Be Safe Out There!

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      One Call Away From Having Your Hiring Problems Solved

      Are you tired of sitting there, sifting through endless resumes and conducting countless interviews all in hopes of discovering perfect fit for your company? What if we told you there was a phone call you can make that can lift the burden and allow you to get on with the things you’re truly passionate about. Unbelievable? Guess Again! We’ve got you covered! At Optimum, our range of staffing services, including industrial staffing, temp-to-perm, and direct hire, are designed to make your life easier and streamline your hiring process. With nearly 50 years of experience, 24/7 support coast to coast support, and a team of transportation and logistic industry experts utilizing our screening and assessment processes, we guarantee to connect you with the right talent. Industrial Staffing We understand the importance of not only providing qualified personnel, but going the extra mile and ensuring their compliance with industry regulations. We offer comprehensive staffing solutions including the recruiting and selection of administrators, fulfillment pickers and packers, forklift operators, janitorial staff, and lumpers. Our industry leading screening process includes a comprehensive package including criminal background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and verification of prior employment all to ensure you have complete peace of mind in the personnel we place. In addition, our team knows the industry and are well-versed in DOT & OSHA training and documentation requirements, we can meet your needs anytime they arise. Our services also include electronic file maintenance, payroll and wage administration, employee benefits management, and much more giving us the ability to meet your unique needs in just the right way. Temp-to-Perm Whether you need a warehouse staff member, a supply chain expert, a dispatcher, a commercial driver, or internal staff, we’ve got you covered. Our experts have one focus: simplifying your hiring process and connecting you with the right people. Our temp-to-perm division offers smooth and efficient solutions that allow us to locate the perfect fit for your needs. With a dedicated team of professionals available anywhere and anytime. Finally, take the weight off your shoulders and focus on what really matters and align with a team of experts eager to help you reach your goals. Direct Hire From start to finish, our direct hire division is effective and will find you the perfect match for your company. We have a deep pool of top talent that is constantly growing and are ready to adapt and transition into any role seamlessly, saving you valuable time and resources. With a 1:1 client to specialist ratio, we are able to uniquely offer a personalized small business feel while offering the same services of our bigger competitors. You can trust Optimum to give you the personalized attention you deserve. With our thorough background checks, complete motor vehicle records, drug screens, and physicals, as well as customized requirements to meet your specific needs, our team of specialists is available 24/7 to provide expert support, solutions and guidance. Don’t Settle Today, we know that there are plenty of options out there when it comes to filling your positions. Our advice? Choose the one that stands out and aligns with your unique goals. With nearly 50 years of experience, 24/7 support, and a team of experts dedicated to providing top-notch services, we guarantee our ability to streamline your hiring process and connect you with the right talent and goes above and beyond to provide complete solutions and compliance support – Don’t hesitate! Get in touch today and start simplifying your journey to success! Stay safe and drive on! – The Optimum Logistics Team

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      Hope on the Horizon? Confronting The Driver Shortage

      Quiet Highways? The sound of engines roaring down the highway has undoubtedly become quieter the past couple years. But, if you look at the data, you can see the industry is revving its engine! After years of facing shortages and feeling the strain on supply chains, it looks like the transportation industry is back on track. As the shortage of truck drivers decreases and more pros hit the road, the demand for freight has taken a long-overdue sigh of relief. Could 2023 be the year we see the roads bustling with life again? Workforce Constraints Remain a Concern Although the shortage of truck drivers across the country appeared to ease slightly last year, it’s still a major worry for the transportation industry in 2023. This was emphasized by a group of top industry experts at the recent Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association (IFCA) annual convention. According to Kirby Wagner of GROWMARK, the workforce shortage is the number one problem the transportation sector is facing right now. Existing shortages have exasperated issues and has resulted in a lot of retirements and many drivers feeling overworked. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) estimates that in 2022, the US was in need of around 78,000 drivers. While still a large amount, this is a noticeable drop from the shortage of 80,000 back in 2021. Regardless of the shortage showing slight signs of letting up, the shortage continues to be a cause for concern and definitely stands as something that everyone should be paying attention to. Expanding the Pool of Drivers The most significant challenge for the industry right now is in expanding the pool of drivers and employees. GROWMARK, a leading wholesaler within the agricultural industry, is actively working towards resolving this issue by providing training and assistance to new truck drivers to help them navigate the complex regulatory landscape. In addition, the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association (IFCA) is exploring new ways to increase the number of drivers in the agriculture industry by proposing an extension of restricted Class B licenses. Struggles Across Transport The trucking industry isn’t the only one feeling the squeeze when it comes to a shortage of workers. The railroad industry is also in the same boat, as BNSF Railway’s representative, Peter Skosey, recently shared. The company is facing a stressed workforce, leading to efficiency concerns in recent times. But BNSF didn’t sit idly by, they took action by negotiating a tough but rewarding round of labor talks, resulting in a whopping 24% pay raise for their hardworking employees. While BNSF may not offer paid sick leave, they make up for it by offering time off, with the average worker receiving a generous 27 to 33 days off each year. And if an employee needs even more time off, they have the option of long-term sick leave. These efforts demonstrate the determination of the transportation industry to overcome the workforce shortages and ensure their employees are well taken care of. The positive changes made by BNSF serve as a shining example for what things are bound to follow as the industry is urged to correct these longstanding issues. Investing in Infrastructure At BNSF, they’re not just talking the talk, they’re walking the walk – with over $3 billion invested annually in maintaining their network, they’re determined to reduce service disruptions and keep things running smoothly. Peter Skosey, a representative from BNSF, notes the company’s focus on efficiency and the luxury of investing in infrastructure to make it happen. As for the transportation sector as a whole, while the shortage of truck drivers has improved, it’s still a pressing issue. Companies are stepping up their game with training programs, regulatory support, and even expanded licenses to bring in more drivers. And the railroad industry? They’re in the same boat, with a stretched workforce, but are showing their determination with investments in technology and infrastructure to boost efficiency. Thank you for taking time our of your day to check out this article! At Optimum Logistics, we have been at the forefront of staffing logistic positions since 1976. If you’re looking for a career in commercial driving, hold a CDL A or B, or are seeking a warehouse position, look no further. We have you covered! Feel free to reach out to us for any of your employment & staffing needs. Stay safe and drive on! – The Optimum Logistics Team

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      Captains of Their Own Destiny? Surveillance in Trucking

      A Long Road The trucking and logistics industries play an absolutely critical role in the functioning of society, delivering essential goods and maintaining the flow of commerce. If you’re in the industry then you’re well aware of just how crucial these roles are. It may be hard to believe but there was a time when truck drivers were at the forefront of popular culture in the 70s, the trucking industry has undergone significant changes since then and today, with safety being the top priority and technology and regulations having a major impact on the profession. New Challenges In her book, “Data Driven: Truckers, Technology, and the New Workplace Surveillance,” Karen Levy delves into the complex relationship between truckers and the regulations they face, giving readers an in-depth look into the life of long-haul truckers. With the post-Covid world bringing an onslaught of new challenges, including a widespread shortage of truck drivers, it’s more important than ever to truly step back and take the necessary time to understand the major sacrifices made by these essential workers in the name of safety & commerce. Despite the demanding nature of their work, truckers have always valued their independence and autonomy, which is rooted in the occupational identity The Backbone of America Long-haul truckers, who form the backbone of the American economy, transport goods under an immense amount of pressure and unbelievably challenging conditions. Despite the demanding nature of their work, truckers have always valued their independence and autonomy, which is rooted in the occupational identity. Some would argue it almost the tradition of the industry. However, the open road has changed and today these workers are face increasing scrutiny from digital surveillance technologies in the name of safety and productivity. Extra Eyes In “Data Driven,” Karen Levy examines how digital monitoring is rocking the landscape of trucking, and raises important questions about the role of data collection in broader systems of control. From industry trade shows to truck-stop bars, the author takes readers inside the world of trucking and reveals how these new technologies are reconfiguring relationships within the industry and providing new and never before available avenues for meticulous management. ELDs & Beyond Federal regulations now require long-haul truckers to obtain and install digital monitoring devices that capture data about their locations and behaviors. These devices, known as electronic logging devices (ELDs), are intended to address the issue of trucker fatigue by limiting finitely the number of hours they can work each day. While this can be a good thing in regard to ensuring driver’s are only on the road for a reasonable amount of hours, it has indirect consequences. The most major being the implication of a lack of trust in the trucker themself. This seemingly minor restriction can come across as disrespectful or distrusting especially when the driver has been in the industry for decades. to be able to manage themselves. Beyond ELDs, They also support additional surveillance by trucking firms and other companies, leading to a complete change in identity within in the profession and an almost complete loss of autonomy for truckers. Resistance Truckers, in response, have developed ways to resist these technologies and maintain their independence. In her research, Karen Levy found that resistance has been a central theme, with truckers engaging in a wide range of practices to push back against the monitoring systems, particularly ELDs. Mandatory ELDs in the United States record data about truckers’ locations and work hours and often integrate with fleet management systems to capture information on their behaviors. Learn More! This book contributes to the ongoing discussion about the impact of technology on work, institutions, and personal lives and provides important insights into how to protect public interests and preserve human dignity in the digital age. Whether you’ve experienced the impact first hand or are simply interested in understanding the challenges and triumphs of life as a trucker, experience the impact of digital surveillance on truckers and understand the challenges and triumphs of their lives by checking out Karen Levy’s book “Data Driven: Truckers, Technology, and the New Workplace Surveillance” and her additional articles for Princeton. As Always, thanks for taking the time to read this article and if you’re looking for commercial driving jobs, you’ve found the perfect place. Check out our current openings available across the country, you can find the perfect job that fits your needs. So, buckle up, grab a cup of coffee, and join us on a journey into the secret world of truckers. Stay Safe Out There! – The Optimum Logistic Team

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