Grow into a fulfilling new profession after military service
Military veterans make up about 10 percent of America’s professional truck-driving fleet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau — and that’s no coincidence. Find out why the trucking industry values those who have served and learn how you can smoothly transition from active duty into a satisfying role with a military-friendly employer.
Seven reasons why veterans should consider a trucking career
Let’s explore some of the things military service and truck driving have in common:
High demand
With more and more goods being moved by truck, employment opportunities in logistics have never been more plentiful. These factors could create competition for your services as you leave active duty and explore your career options.
ArcBest’s less-than-truckload carrier, ABF Freight®, has been a longtime proponent of hiring military veterans because of their skills, character and work ethic. Our strategic partnerships help identify quality candidates and create job opportunities for military personnel transitioning to a new civilian career.
Job security
After years of daily structure and reliable pay, exiting military service members might feel uncertain about their professional futures. Stepping into a truck driving career can help ease that anxiety. Despite technological advancements, drivers will always be needed to deliver goods to consumers, which means trucking will continue to serve as the backbone of our economy.
Transportation companies value safe, dependable drivers and are eager to ensure they build successful careers. For example, ABF drivers are represented by the Teamsters Union and use some of the newest and best-maintained equipment in the industry. These are just a couple of reasons why more than half of the ABF driving fleet has been with the company for more than a decade — and why one of the highest causes of turnover is retirement.
Excellent compensation
Service members earn more as they rise in rank. The same holds true for truck drivers as they gain more experience, but the floor is higher in trucking. Annual salaries for ABF drivers range from $66,000-$89,000 plus benefits, making it one of the industry's most competitive overall compensation packages. That means, depending on how long you served in the military, you can make more as a new truck driver!
Similar skillset
Service members already have the intangibles needed to be a successful truck driver. And if you’ve already gained some transportation and logistics experience in your branch, you’ll know what to expect. Traits like discipline, safety awareness, grit, adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving skills translate well from the military to trucking. With quality training, you can quickly become comfortable in your new profession.
Team mentality
Those who serve are mission-focused and understand the value of teamwork. Transportation networks rely on drivers and expansive support teams to deliver freight safely and on time. Working together to achieve the shared goal of serving customers with excellence is critical for all involved.
Active workday
Driving a truck offers a unique perspective compared to sitting behind a desk. Like military service, driving puts you in the middle of the action, giving you the ability to travel, see the country and enjoy a variety of experiences. It offers autonomy while also providing the support of a company and a community of fellow drivers.
Service-oriented
After leaving the armed forces, veterans can find similar satisfaction by continuing to serve in a new role as a professional truck driver. Semi-trucks carry 70 percent of freight throughout the country. Drivers help keep grocery and retail stores stocked, deliver medicine and medical supplies, and keep vital machinery running — all of which positively impact our daily lives.
Let ArcBest help you prepare for your next chapter
You deserve respect and support every mile along your career path. We’re here to provide it. Learn more about how you can drive for ArcBest.
