To add to the problem, the supply chain disruptions have stoked the already record-setting rate of inflation, drastically increasing the costs of everything from food to gasoline and computer ships.
Truckers are overlooked and oftentimes looked down upon due to biases of the working class. The reality is that truck drivers are the lifeblood of commerce, transporting over 70% of the United States economy's products across the country. The current challenge is that there is a massive shortage of truckers. The industry has lost 6% of its workers since the pandemic began, and some companies saw trucker attrition rates skyrocket up to 150%.
Driving a truck is a grueling way to make a living. You're on the road most of your life. If you have a family, you don’t see them for months at a time. Stopping at small rest stations, local diners and low-quality motels left the driver susceptible to catching Covid-19. Many truckers also bear the burden of gas, insurance and maintenance costs, whichIt's a hot job with around 11 million opportunities available.
To offer growth opportunities, the big box chain also offers truckers access to the Live Better U program, where Walmart covers the cost of tuition and books for a college degree and our nationwide network ofEstablished, experienced drivers at the Private Fleet serve as Certified Driver Trainers, teaching the next generation. The process takes months of real-world experience under trained instructors, and a dedicated mentor to help them smoothly transition into their new role.
With more of these types of programs, having a full deployment of truckers will create new jobs, help alleviate the supply chain disruptions, and dampen out-of-control inflation.