In a rapidly changing world of work, where automation, remote roles, and economic uncertainty are reshaping industries, one thing remains consistent: America runs on trucks.
Trucking isn’t just a job; it’s one of the most stable, rewarding, and essential career paths available today. Every product we buy — from groceries to medicine to construction materials — spends time on a truck. This makes trucking the backbone of the supply chain and a vital part of our economy. While many careers come and go with economic cycles, the demand for professional drivers, diesel technicians, and logistics specialists remains high. The American Trucking Association projects that the industry will need over 1 million new drivers over the next decade. That’s not just a statistic; it’s a call to action.
Opportunities without mountains of debt
Unlike many career paths that require a four-year degree and significant student loan debt, trucking offers a faster, more affordable route to a strong income. High school graduates can begin training for their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) right away, with many programs completed in just a few months. Some high schools even offer CDL training to seniors, giving them a head start on their careers. For those stepping directly into the workforce after graduation, trucking provides a practical, empowering, and debt-free option.
Pathways beyond the driver’s seat
At the Next Generation in Trucking Association (NGT), we aren’t just focused on trucking as a career behind the wheel; we’re building awareness of the entire supply chain ecosystem, from diesel mechanics to dispatchers, warehouse managers, and logistics planners. The industry is full of opportunities for career growth, advancement, and specialization. Whether you want to own your own truck one day, manage a fleet, or work in operations, trucking opens doors.
A career with purpose and pride
Truck drivers don’t just deliver freight; they deliver the goods that keep communities running. During the pandemic, the world saw truck drivers as heroes. That hasn’t changed. Trucking is a career that carries a deep sense of responsibility and pride. It’s a career that says, “I keep America moving.”
Next-gen trucking: building the future
The NGT exists to connect young people, schools, and employers with the resources they need to succeed in this industry. We promote trucking as a positive career choice, help schools build training programs, and celebrate the next wave of professional drivers and technicians. We’re here to show that trucking isn’t a last resort; it’s a first-choice career with stability, purpose, and opportunity.