The American Trucking Association reported record low Drivers

The American Trucking Associations reported a 78,000 truck driver shortage, affecting the economy and supply chains.

To address this, the North Carolina Trucking Association Foundation received $5 million from the state and partnered with the North Carolina Community College System to establish the Truck Driver Shortage Grant Program. The program supports 14 rural community colleges, providing funding for truck driver training expansion, tuition scholarships, and hiring bonuses for retired drivers as instructors. Among the recipients is Sampson Community College, which will use the funding to hire a bilingual instructor and an ESL assistant. The grants aim to expand employment opportunities, reduce waitlists, and remove barriers for students in their communities. All funding must be allocated by December 31, 2024.