Shortages Lead to Six-Figure Salaries For Truck Drivers at Walmart
Walmart is aggressively hiring and offering free training
The American Trucking Association (ATA) announced that, in 2021, the United States had a shortage of over 80,000 truck drivers. If current trends continue, the shortages could double by 2030.
There are several reasons this sector could be in crisis. The problems started in the 1980s. Prior to that was a halcyon period for truckers.
There were TV shows like BJ and the Bear and movies that glamorized the profession. The Teamsters union helped maintain good working conditions. That changed under the Carter years when the industry was deregulated.
Now most of the workforce is older and it’s become harder to attract new talent. Truck driving used to be a middle class occupation. Now, thanks to industry regulations, it is a job that often does not compensate people adequately. Marijuana legalization and the pandemic have also been factors. Applicants now are more likely to fail drug tests, and vaccine mandates have not helped.
The shortages have led to supply chain issues as stores report more empty shelves.
Walmart is trying to change things for its supply chain. On April 7th, the retailer announced a raise in pay…
