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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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      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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      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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