It is that time of year again, graduation time! Hopes and dreams are a near reality and futures begin to form into reality. Over 3 million high school students will enter the workforce or go on to postsecondary education. If you have not partnered with the nearest high school’s diesel tech program, there is still time to get connected.
High school diesel tech programs will have advisory board meetings and career fairs. At these career fairs, students will have the opportunity to meet with potential employers to learn about career options at your company. To set yourself apart, make sure you highlight these things:
1. Pay & Benefits – What is the structure and are there regular pay increases or bonuses?
2. Tool Program – Is there a program to help them obtain tools?
3. Career Pathway – What are the opportunities for growth at your company? Do you have any real-life examples?
4. Company Culture – Why do technicians like working for you and what is the environment like?
5. Continuing Education – Do you invest in their education and provide ongoing training? Do you have a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program?
6. Flexibility – What can you provide?
On average, it costs more than $8,000 to find and hire a tech on the shop floor. According to the American Trucking Association, the industry will need about 200,000 technicians over the next 10 years just to keep up with current truck maintenance demands.
If you are a member of Next Gen Trucking and would like a list of the nation’s high school diesel tech programs email lindsey@nextgentrucking.org. As an industry, we need a strong showing of support for our local school systems and future workforce. Will your company be the hopes and dreams of a soon-to-be graduate?
Lindsey Trent
President & Co-Founder, Next Gen Trucking Association
