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      Simulators, Scams and Sustainability: Unforgettable Stories In the Trucking World

      Another Week of Unforgettable Stories Welcome to another edition of our weekly hits in trucker news, where we bring you the most important and intriguing stories affecting the trucking industry. From a Nebraska couple sentenced for embezzling thousands of dollars from drivers, to a major acquisition in the US trucking sector, and the innovative trucking simulator setting high school students up for success, these stories are bound to grab your attention. Stay with us as we dive into the world of trucking and explore the latest developments that are shaping the industry. Nebraska Couple Sentenced for Embezzling $140K from Drivers Owners of B&B Midwest Trucking, a Nebraska-based company, have been sentenced for failing to pay over employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). William H. White and Sarah A. White, the husband and wife who owned the company, withheld federal income taxes and FICA taxes from employees’ paychecks between 2015 and 2018, totaling $144,220.31 for B&B and $281,827.44 for another of their companies, 419 LLC. Instead of paying the taxes on time, the couple used the funds to pay other creditors and for personal expenses. William White was sentenced to a year and a day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, while Sarah White received three years of probation and a $10,000 fine. They were also ordered to pay $426,047.75 in restitution. The employer share of payroll taxes was paid before sentencing. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska, the Whites had sufficient funds to pay the taxes but chose not to, gaining an unfair competitive advantage over other businesses. The IRS Criminal Investigation’s Field Office wants to remind business owners that they have a significant duty to collect and turn over all IRS withholding taxes, and those who fail to do so will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This case serves as a reminder that not paying taxes can result in severe consequences, including criminal charges, imprisonment, and fines. To read more about this story, click here. Trucking Company Owner Reunited with $39,500 After Seizure by Phoenix Police Jerry Johnson, the owner of a North Carolina-based trucking company, has finally been reunited with $39,500 that Phoenix police seized through civil asset forfeiture in 2020. Johnson was accused of being part of a money laundering operation and had his cash confiscated after police found the money split between his carry-on and checked baggage at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix. However, Johnson was never charged with a crime related to the money. Under civil asset forfeiture laws, the government can seize property it believes is connected to a crime, even if no one is charged, and it’s the responsibility of the property owner to hire an attorney to get it back. The Institute for Justice, a libertarian legal advocacy group, took up Johnson’s case, and the Arizona Court of Appeals ruled in May 2022 that Johnson could contest the seizure. Prosecutors moved to dismiss the case in February, and Johnson got his money back. Although Johnson’s money has been returned, the case isn’t over yet. The Institute for Justice is still fighting over whether the state should pay him standard interest on the money and whether he’s owed attorney fees from the period before the group began representing him pro bono. The ordeal has created a significant financial burden for Johnson and his family, and he missed out on business opportunities because the money was held in a government account for nearly three years. To read more about this story, click here. Major Takeover in US Trucking: Knight-Swift’s Acquisition of US Xpress Knight-Swift, the largest player in the US truckload industry, is set to acquire US Xpress in a deal worth about $808 million, the biggest takeover in US trucking in years. According to the two companies, US Xpress will add about $2.2 billion in annual revenue, a boost of around 30%, to Knight-Swift’s turnover, with $1.8 billion generated in the truckload segment. The smaller carrier has struggled in recent years, with a net deficit of $40.5 million in 2022 and a restructuring plan to reduce costs by $25 million a year. The acquisition is an opportunistic move for Knight-Swift, and a rare opportunity for shareholders in US Xpress to get a generous return on their investment. The deal is expected to close by the end of the second or early in the third quarter, and US Xpress will continue as an independent brand. Despite the high purchasing price and outstanding debt, some observers believe the takeover could prove a bargain for the larger player if it manages to turn US Xpress around. As headwinds for US truckload operators are not expected to disappear in the near future, pundits have predicted more consolidation in the coming months. Knight-Swift’s acquisition of US Xpress affirms its interest in growth through acquisition, with president and CEO David Jackson signaling that it won’t be the final move of the company this year. To read more about this story, click here. Steering Success: How A Trucking Simulator is Setting Students Up For Success Richland School District One in South Carolina is offering a unique program for high school students to help them get a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and jumpstart their careers. Eau Claire High School is leading the way with a 45-student program that recently received a big boost by installing a brand new trucking simulator. Students can now learn space management, speed management, and hazard prevention without the risk of damaging a vehicle or themselves. After completing the program, students will have hands-on training and experience that could give them a competitive advantage in securing a job. Rick Todd, president of the South Carolina Trucking Association, says trucking is universal and a skill needed across the country, adding it can be a lucrative job with salaries of up to $100,000. Companies are always trying to up their game and get the best drivers they can find. For Keshawn Hair, a student…

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      A New Team: The Bipedal Robot Redefining Logistic Automation

      Move over, Iron Man, because there’s a new superhero in town: Digit, a bipedal robot from Agility Robotics! The logistics and transportation industry is already witnessing the transformative power of automation and autonomy, with autonomous trucks leading the charge. In fact, we’ve covered a handful of these advancements on our blog this year. Once again, we’re thrilled to discuss another area experiencing an onslaught of innovation – bipedal robots and their impact on logistics and supply chain management. ProMat 2023 This week logistic pros and enthusiasts will attend ProMat 2023, the biannual trade show and exhibition taking place in Chicago, IL. This event showcases the latest manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain solutions and technologies. Industry professionals from manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and transportation gather to learn about cutting-edge trends and innovations. Among the many impressive exhibits appearing, one particularly exciting attraction that has caught the attention of many is Agility Robotics and their unique bipedal robots. Agility Robotics Agility Robotics was founded by Dr. Jonathan Hurst and Dr. Damion Shelton a duo based out of Albany, Oregon. The company has already made waves based on their unique take on specializing in designing and building advanced robots for various commercial applications. The twist? They have legs. Their flagship product, the Cassie robot, is designed to operate autonomously and navigate complex environments with ease. Agility Robotics has attracted significant attention and investment from diverse industries, such as logistics, e-commerce, and healthcare, due to their groundbreaking technology and the potential to transform various parts of the industry from warehouse work to delivering packages. Taking the Stage This year’s ProMat is slated to be one for the books as it will finally showcase Agility Robotics’ latest bot, Digit. Digit is the team’s latest rendition of a bipedal robot and it is quickly becoming the go-to solution for numerous arms of our industry. At this week’s event, Digit will demonstrate its logistic capabilities in a replica warehouse. This is expected to be a very interesting and inspiring display of technology since unlike other robots we’ve become used to, Agility Robotics’ creations aren’t designed to simply mimic human movements. Instead, they’re built to work alongside humans, complementing human labor rather than striving to replace it entirely. Meet Digit While we wait for the full display later this week, let’s discuss what we already know about Digit. For starters, Digit is compact, strong, and versatile, capable of carrying up to 16kg (35lbs) and working for up to 16 hours in a 24-hour period. Even more impressive robot can autonomously connect to its docking station to recharge, eliminating the need for costly retrofitting. It’s just like a Roomba! As for walking capabilities, it’s actually able to move in any direction, traverse unstructured terrain, and detect and navigate around obstacles, including people. This is a game changer because it opens a door for true collaboration between human workers and their automated counterparts. Especially since Digit can pick up and put down objects of varying sizes and weights, making it an even more valuable asset in logistics and transportation. With its wide range of capabilities, it’s no surprise that Digit is rapidly becoming the robot of choice for many industries. As we continue to explore advancements in automation and autonomy, it’s evident that Agility Robotics is worth keeping your eye on as they seem to be spearheading a new movement and mindset in innovation within logistics and transportation. Live Stream Update: For those interested, a livestream of the Digit Demo at ProMat 2023 will be streamed on YouTube later today. Be sure to check it out! That’s All For Now As automation and autonomy continue to revolutionize these sectors, bipedal robots like Digit have the potential to play an increasingly important role in supply chain management. With its unique design, versatility, and ability to work alongside humans, Digit represents a new era of automation that complements human labor rather than replacing it. We hope you enjoyed this week’s roundup of important trucker news! As always, we want to hear your thoughts and opinions on these stories, so be sure to leave your opinion in the comments below. Together we can stay informed and engaged . Don’t forget to check back next week for another edition of our weekly trucker news roundup. If you made it to this part of the article, we’d just like to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to read it. Be safe out there and 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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      Hauntings To Hazmat: Unforgettable Moments In The Trucking World

      A Quick St. Paddy’s Day Thank You! Before we get into another wild ride in the trucking industry this week, we’d like to take a minute to wish you a Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Today, we celebrate our unrivaled road warriors and logistics experts who keep the world moving. Thank you for your dedication and hard work! Wishing you a day filled with good luck, fewer potholes, and smooth travels. Stay safe this weekend & cheers from The Optimum Logistic Team! Onto The News! A rising number of fatal crashes calls for action through a new Roadway Safety Action Plan that utilized data to identify crash hotspots and aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on Knoxville’s roads. Emergency crews responded to a hazardous material spill at an East Tennessee truck stop, meanwhile a highway safety advocacy group is demanding action to improve safety standards to prevent events like this from taking place. And to top it all off, for those who love a little strangeness, a truck driver’s dashcam captured a mysterious ghost-like figure on an eerie Arizona highway. Buckle up and join us as we dive into the latest news from the world of trucking! New Plan To Eradicate Fatal Crashes in Knoxville Knoxville, a picturesque East Tennessee city, has been plagued by a rising number of fatal and serious crashes. With 30% of these accidents occurring on 12 specifc roadways, the Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) is taking action. They’ve developed a Roadway Safety Action Plan, bringing together engineers, planners, law enforcement, community members, and other organizations to make Knoxville’s streets safer for everyone. While still acknowledging that humans make mistakes, the plan aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on Knoxville’s roads by addressing the factors contributing to accidents. For example, planners are examining roadway curves and roadside conditions to prevent crashes caused by drivers losing control and veering off the road. The TPO’s plan uses a data-driven approach, identifying and ranking crash hotspots based on the number of accidents per mile. This includes high-crash areas both in and around the city, popular areas such as like downtown’s Henley Street, Broadway and Chapman Highway, as well as Illinois Avenue in Oak Ridge, which lies on Knoxville’s outskirts. The next step will be securing funding to implement the plan and begin the work of making Knoxville’s streets safer. The TPO is also issuing some public through surveys to gather feedback and help achieve their zero-fatality goal. Ellen Zavisca, the TPO’s principal transportation planner, remains optimistic that they can prevent fatal and serious crashes, forever changing the lives of Knoxville’s residents for the better. Read the full story here! Highway Haunting: Truck Driver Captures A Spooky Sight on Dashcam Picture this: you’re driving alone on a desolate Arizona highway at 2:30 a.m. when you suddenly see a mysterious figure appear on the side of the road. That’s exactly what happened to truck driver William Church, whose dashcam captured a creepy, ghost-like figure on Arizona State Route 87 between Phoenix and Payson! With no other cars around, Church and the many viewers of his unique footage have been left wondering if this eerie encounter could be something supernatural… Arizona State Route 87 has a long and deadly history, with many fatal car accidents occurring on the 96-year-old road. Constructed in 1927, the highway stretches over 272 miles from the north end near Second Mesa to the south end near Picacho. Some locals have even come to believe that the road could be haunted, with Valley Chevy Dealers in Phoenix dubbing it one of Arizona’s “most dangerous roads” due to its looping turns and beeline-like route. Captured by a Nexar dashcam, which is designed to record drives for security reasons, the six-second clip reveals a translucent figure resembling a person standing in the roadway. Church pointed out that you can even see the lines through the figure’s legs, adding to its ghostly appearance. With no other cars on the road and the highway’s spooky reputation, it’s no wonder people are discussing the possibility of a supernatural occurrence. While we may never know for sure if William Church’s sighting was a ghost, it’s clear that this spine-chilling encounter will leave viewers questioning the unknown. Hazmat Leak At East Tennessee Truck Stop Emergency crews responded to a hazardous material spill at a truck stop on Watt Road in Knoxville. A semi-truck began leaking some kind of dangerous substance, prompting the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office, county EMA, and fire crews to respond along with Knox County Rural Metro. The hazmat teams worked to clean up the spill and people were urged to avoid the area and take alternate routes if possible. Update: The quick response from multiple emergency crews shows just how seriously they take these kinds of incidents. Authorities have already identified the material as Peroxyacetic Acid. This multi-purpose antimicrobial agent, surface cleaner, and sanitizer is currently used across many different industries. While it is safe while stabilized, when it’s in its purest form, it can be corrosive. Two passerbys who witnessed the acid’s “vinegar-like” odor actually ended up driving themselves to the hospital to get checked out. Highway Safety Advocacy Group Calls for Crackdown on Trucking Industry From a train derailment in East Palestine to a semi-truck rollover in Tucson, Arizona, we’re seeing more and more that there is a growing issue with hazardous material spills. Scary, right? Well, the Truck Safety Coalition (TSC) is demanding that U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg take action. Their goal is to improve truck safety standards and prevent dangerous crashes, while simultaneously putting public safety ahead of corporate profits. Okay, sounds great, but how exactly do they plan to achieve this? The TSC has a list of recommendations for the Department of Transportation (DOT), and they’re not holding back: Requiring Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) on all commercial vehicles. Research shows AEB could eliminate over 40% of large truck rear-end collisions. The European Union has been requiring AEB on heavy trucks since 2013. Mandating…

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      Self-Driving Layoffs? Embarking On A New Journey

      Impact of the Economic Downturn on the Logistics Industry According to the latest reports, the logistics industry is witnessing a significant drop in employment as consumer spending shifts away from goods and towards services, causing a drop in e-commerce growth and a slowdown in freight demand. Trucking, warehousing, and parcel-delivery companies have cut jobs in response to the slowdown, causing many logistics companies to begin massive pullbacks on hiring. Beyond trucks, we saw the warehouse sector come face to face with one of the largest monthly drops in the past decade. It’s important to note that the majority of the job losses are in industries that thrived during the pandemic. Amazon, for instance, has already initiated a cost-cutting review, implementing targeted cuts to bring down costs. Other tech giants such as Facebook, Lyft, HP, and Salesforce have also announced layoffs to counteract the overgrowth that occurred during the pandemic. This raises an important question, is employment in these booming industries sustainable? Noble Beginnings Embark, one of the big names in self-driving big rig’s, was founded back in 2016 and has since raised over $115 million in funding. Beyond that, they began the process of making good on their promises. The company previously achieved successful public road tests and even partnered with major shipping companies such as HP and AB InBev to conduct pilot programs. Their main goal as a company has always been working to make commercial trucking safer, more efficient, and less expensive by enabling trucks to operate safely and efficiently without a driver on the highway. By taking out the human element, they believed that they could make the industry much safer and more efficient. This was echoed by Srikanth Saripalli, director at Texas A&M’s Center for Autonomous Vehicles and Sensor Systems, who described their main aim as automating the, “…dull, dirty, dangerous…,” tasks, leaving humans to focus on more complex and creative work! The House Automation Built If you remember way back to 2017, you’ll recall that the Texas Legislature passed laws allowing autonomous vehicles to operate on Texas roads. This exciting legislature began instantly attracting driverless car companies to the state. Embark, along with some other big names in the game, have been utilizing autonomous trucking technology being developed at Texas A&M University ever since. As they’ve gone on to explore this groundbreaking new tech, lots of new ideas have prospered and it really seemed as though the sky was the limit. At one point, there was even talk of expanding into Texas’ infrastructure and launching a first of its kind self-driving trucking lane between Houston and San Antonio! The Memo Nobody Wanted Sadly, despite the team’s hard work, undeniable accomplishments and high hopes, Embark CEO, Alex Rodrigues, acknowledged in a company-wide letter that can really be summed up by one line, “success was not guaranteed.” He expressed his disappointment having to lay off approximately 70% of the company. The remaining 30% of the company will turn their focus on an orderly wind-down of its operations, supporting its laid-off employees, and evaluating its options, including selling assets, restructuring, or shutting down completely. The laid-off employees have been reassured that they will receive severance, benefits, equity, and career support from Embark. Despite the closure, Alex believes that the work of the company has made a difference in pushing the autonomous trucking industry forward. In addition to the layoffs, the company also closed its offices in Southern California and Houston. Only time will tell the true impact of these setbacks on the industry as a whole. Greener Pastures Despite the recent economic challenges, there is still optimism in the logistics industry, as some top trucking company executives predict that freight demand will improve in the second half of the year due to an increase in orders from retailers. However, the Logistics Managers’ Index report for February showed that transportation prices contracted at the fastest rate in the index’s 6½-year history.  This highlights the importance for companies to remain vigilant and ready to adapt to the changing economic climate, and emphasizes the importance of considering just how sustainable astronomical growth is especially when that growth is based on something that’s not permanent such as a pandemic. Only the future can tell what impacts these setbacks will have on the automated trucking industry and logistics as a whole. If you made it to this part of the article, we’d just like to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to read it. Be safe out there and 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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      Quarter-Million Creme Egg Heist? Tax Repeal + New Rules

      Wild Stories You Won’t Want To Miss Get ready for a wild ride in the trucking industry this week! From a daring theft of 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs to a call-out of a speeding trucker on Twitter, the headlines are packed with unexpected events. But that’s not all, as new bills take aim at outdated taxes and regulations, while rest stops in Missouri are getting a makeover to provide safer parking for commercial vehicles. Buckle up and join us as we dive into the latest news from the world of trucking. New Bill Takes On Outdated Trucker Taxes Senators Ben Cardin and Todd Young have introduced the Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act of 2023 to repeal the outdated federal excise tax (FET) on heavy trucks and trailers. The bipartisan bill has garnered support from industry groups such as the American Trucking Associations, American Truck Dealers, and Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA). The FET, established over 100 years ago to support World War I efforts, is now the highest percentage excise tax on any product and acts as a barrier to investment in cleaner and safer trucks and trailers. Repealing the tax will promote growth, competitiveness, and cleaner technology, while creating jobs and reducing emissions. Over 90% of truck drivers are men. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2021, over 95% of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers and 84% of delivery truck drivers were men. FMCSA Wants To Ensure Drivers Get Paid On Time The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has extended the comment period for its proposed rules to regulate broker and freight forwarder financial responsibility. The NPRM, which covers areas such as immediate suspension of operating authority and surety or trust responsibilities in cases of financial failure, was set to expire on March 5th, but has been extended until April 6th to allow for a public listening session. The session will be held on March 31st in Louisville, KY, and will run concurrently with the Mid America Trucking Show. The FMCSA hopes that this extension will encourage public input on the proposed rules. Missouri Closes 2 Rest Stops for Safer Truck Parking The Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing two rest areas, the southbound Platte County Interstate 29 and Clinton County Interstate 35, to all motorists next week as work begins to convert them into commercial vehicle parking. The $3.8 million project, expected to be completed by the end of October 2023, aims to meet the needs of commercial vehicles, which make up an estimated 35% of the annual daily traffic on Missouri’s interstates. By converting traditional rest areas, MoDOT hopes to decrease the costs of upkeep while ensuring safer parking for commercial vehicles. U.K. Man Steals 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs A man has pleaded guilty to stealing nearly 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs worth an estimated £40,000. Using a metal grinder to break into an industrial unit in Telford, the 32-year-old from West Yorkshire used a stolen cab to drive off with the chocolate goods. He was stopped by police and will be sentenced on March 14. The prosecutor described the crime as requiring some “significant planning” since the defendant was the leader in the offense, including using a stolen tractor unit. All the stolen items have been recovered in good condition. Nebraska State Patrol Calls Out Speeding Trucker on Twitter A trooper from Nebraska State Patrol called out a “Peterbuilt” driver on Twitter for traveling at 101 mph. The post asks if a Peterbilt can actually reach that speed and encourages drivers to slow down, as speed is a factor in many crashes and their severity. The post doesn’t note the highway the driver was caught on, but a photo shows the truck running bobtail. You’re All Caught Up! We hope you enjoyed this week’s roundup of important trucker news! We definitely won’t be forgetting about the theft of 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs any time soon! From the proposed financial responsibility rules all the way to the introduction of a new bills and closing rest areas, there’s always something happening in the world of trucking! We want to hear your thoughts and opinions on these stories, so be sure to leave your opinion in the comments below. Together we can stay informed and engaged . Don’t forget to check back next week for another edition of our weekly trucker news roundup. If you made it to this part of the article, we’d just like to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to read it. Be safe out there and 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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      10 Ways Women are Shaking-Up Trucking: Happy International Women’s Day!

      Happy International Women’s Day! It comes as no surprise to learn that the trucking industry has historically been a male-dominated field, with men accounting for the vast majority of truck drivers. However, in recent years, women have been making inroads and advocating for more inclusive and equitable workplaces. With industry leaders and policymakers taking notice, here are 10 surprising ways that women are shaking-up in the trucking industry: 1. Over 90% of truck drivers are men. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2021, over 95% of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers and 84% of delivery truck drivers were men. 2. Women already comprise around 6.75% of industry workers. While the percentage may seem low, it has already doubled in just over the past two decades. 3. Gender diversity is making significant progress in securing leadership roles within the trucking industry. The 2022 Women in Trucking Index reports that the number of women occupying executive positions at trucking companies has increased by 23.3% over the past year. Additionally, more women are being appointed to the board of directors of trucking organizations, seeing a 20% increase. 4. The American Trucking Associations launched a Women in Motion initiative. This new initiative aims to bring more women into the trucking industry and continue efforts to break down barriers that may hinder their success. 5. The Biden-Harris administration established a Women in Trucking Advisory Board to support and bring more women into the trucking industry. The board aims to address challenges faced by women in trucking and promote gender diversity. 6. Advocacy groups are pushing for change as well. Groups such as REAL Women in Trucking and Women in Trucking have committed to creating a safer, more equitable environment for women in the trucking business. 7. Truck design is changing to be more inclusive. Trucking giants such as Ryder and Volvo have even gone as far as to make changes to truck designs themself in order to make them accessible and operational for a variety of body types. 8. Women face other unique challenges in the industry as well. In recent years, widespread claims of sexual harassment and assault have risen to the surface. These issues have become the major focus for the industry and making efforts to rid the industry of these issues. 9. Women make less than men in trucking. Male truck drivers make 1.3 times what women drivers make, according to the BLS. 10. Women find freedom and independence in trucking. Despite the challenges, increasing numbers of women are finding community and independence as truck drivers, with many citing the freedom, time for self-reflection, and even space for self-discovery that these job offers. It’s Clear Women are making significant progress towards gender equity in the trucking industry, breaking down barriers and pushing for a more inclusive and supportive future. While challenges may persist, the industry is clearly eager to take the necessary steps towards recognizing and addressing the unique obstacles faced by women in the industry, with advocacy groups leading the way for these changes. With continued support and progress, the path ahead for women in trucking is promising and offers new opportunities for female drivers and industry leaders. If you made it to this part of the article, we’d just like to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to read it. Be safe out there and 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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      Tennessee Volunteers To Lead New $2M Transportation Education Center

      UTK leading Center for Freight Transportation for Efficient The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been awarded a $2 million a year grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to lead a new and exciting venture: a multi-institutional University Transportation Center aimed at improving the mobility of people and goods across the country. The Center for Freight Transportation for Efficient and Resilient Supply Chain will partner alongside these universities: Texas A&M University University of Illinois Chicago Oregon State University North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University California State University, Long Beach. Supply Chain Innovations The center will be led by Mingzhou Jin, John D. Tickle Professor in UT’s Tickle College of Engineering, who expressed excitement over the opportunity to work with other institutions to develop innovative technologies and solutions that maximize the capacity of existing roadway infrastructure and ensure the just-in-time delivery of goods that support America’s retail and manufacturing economy. The goal is to enhance supply chain resiliency by addressing the challenges in freight transportation system design, planning, operations, and innovations in national and global supply chains through research, education, workforce development, and technology transfer activities. UT’s Commitment to Future Mobility The new center will be located in UT Knoxville’s Center for Transportation Research. The overarching goal of the facility will be to lead the way in new and transformational work paving the way for the future of the industry. Through support of both new technology advancements and the creation of a skilled workforce for Tennessee and the nation there is no doubt that this will have a monumental impact. According to UT Vice Chancellor for Research Deb Crawford, the state of Tennessee already plays a critical role in the U.S. freight network, and UT is committed to amplifying the impact of its research outcomes by building research capacity. Why Tennessee? Quick Facts! Tennessee is home to nearly 14K Distribution and Logistics establishments The second busiest cargo airport in the world is located in Memphis, TN 231K+ Tennesseans are employed in the Distribution and Logistics industry $4 Billion in capital investment from industry projects since 2017 Although the trucking and logistics industry has experienced its share of ups and downs in recent years, we’re seeing positive developments that largely suggest a much brighter future. Established universities, as well as institutions like Ivy Tech and New Castle Career Center, are making significant efforts to strengthen the industry’s foundation. For example, we recently featured the new CDL Scholarship program from Ivy Tech and New Castle Career Center. These efforts are likely to have a huge impact on the industry’s future. If you made it to this part of the article, we’d just like to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to read it. Be safe out there and 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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      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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