Chet Driving School Offers Youth Experience in Trucking

The trucking industry is at a crossroads, facing a critical need for fresh talent as older drivers retire and demand for goods transportation continues to rise. Young people are being encouraged to explore this dynamic career path, with innovative programs designed to attract and train the next generation of truck drivers.

At the heart of this initiative is the Commercial Heavy Equipment Training (CHET), an in-house driving school established by Musket Transport. The program aims to equip young immigrants with essential skills and knowledge about the trucking sector, providing them with a hands-on experience through workshops and training sessions.

Understanding the trucking industry’s opportunities

The trucking industry plays a pivotal role in the economy, delivering over 70% of all freight transported in North America. This makes it an essential component of supply chains across various sectors. With the economy constantly evolving, the need for skilled truck drivers has never been more pressing.

• Job availability: The demand for truck drivers is expected to grow, creating numerous job opportunities in the coming years.
• Career advancement: Truck drivers can transition into various roles, such as fleet management, logistics coordination, or even owning their trucking business.
• Flexible work hours: Many trucking jobs offer flexibility in scheduling, which can be appealing to young workers.

According to Sophia Sniegowski Begidzhanov, corporate communications officer at Musket Transport/CHET, obtaining an A/Z license—a requirement for operating large trucks—opens the door to various career opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of practical driving experience, not only for immediate job prospects but also for future roles in operations and management.

The journey begins with training

Training is a crucial aspect of entering the trucking industry. CHET collaborates with various organizations, including immigrant services and the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC), to provide comprehensive training workshops. These sessions cover everything from obtaining the necessary licenses to understanding the nuances of the trucking business.

Anthony Dyal, Musket's fleet resources manager, underscored the importance of ongoing education after securing a job. He advised attendees that continual improvement in their skills is vital for long-term success in the trucking industry. “You have to constantly work at your trade. If you do that, you will be successful because this is an industry where you can grow,” he stated.

Career paths within trucking

Musket’s driver manager, Mensur Xhemajli, shared his personal journey, highlighting how his initial training at CHET propelled him into a successful career in trucking. After 15 years of driving experience, including stints as an owner-operator, he transitioned into various roles, including crane operator and driving instructor.

He urged young aspirants to maintain a clean driving record, emphasizing that behaviors like speeding or reckless driving can significantly hinder their careers. This sentiment was echoed by Hammad Hassan, program manager for exploring trucking careers at TBDC, who noted that trucking can lead to diverse career advancements.

“Trucking brought me here; I’m now working as a program manager. It can take you anywhere, so use that knowledge to advance yourself,” he advised. Sandra Graham, operations manager at CHET, also mentioned that obtaining a D/Z license, which has a shorter training duration and lower fees, can be an easier entry point into the industry.

The importance of professionalism and safety

In trucking, professionalism and safety are paramount. Graham emphasized that “in trucking, you are only as good as your last mistake.” This highlights the potential risks involved in the profession and the need for drivers to prioritize safety at all times. Proper training and adherence to road safety regulations can prevent costly accidents and ensure the well-being of drivers and others on the road.

• Customer interaction: As truck drivers often interact with clients and enforcement officers, their conduct can significantly affect these relationships.
• Work environment: Understanding the difference between local and long-haul driving is essential for aspiring drivers, as it influences their day-to-day experiences and job expectations.
• Legal driving hours: Drivers must be aware of legal limits on driving hours and the implications for their work-life balance.

Francois Jeddi, CHET's sales manager, discussed the various types of trucking jobs available, from local deliveries to specialized hauling operations. Attendees learned about the range of vehicles they might operate, including vans, reefers, flatbeds, and tankers. This information can help young drivers make informed choices about their career paths.

Financial literacy and funding options

Securing funding for training and career advancement is another important aspect of entering the trucking industry. Representatives from a financial literacy organization shared insights on available funding options, helping attendees understand how to manage their finances effectively and invest in their futures.

Hands-on experience and real-world insights

The workshop concluded with a practical component, where participants had the chance to utilize a truck-driving simulator and ride in a tractor-trailer. This hands-on experience provides invaluable insight into the realities of driving a truck and helps to solidify interest in pursuing a trucking career.

Omar, a young participant, expressed his enthusiasm after the workshop, stating that it answered many of his questions about the industry. His positive experience reflects the program’s success in engaging young individuals and sparking interest in trucking as a viable career option.

“Will I be behind the wheel of a big rig sometime soon?” he pondered, adding that it was highly likely in the near future, showcasing the program's potential to transform lives and open doors to new opportunities.

For those interested in further exploring trucking careers, resources like training videos can offer additional insights. For instance, check out this video on tips for new drivers, which can provide valuable information on the driving experience:

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