Where Trucking Companies Should Invest in Their Workforce First #truckingindustry

ASCM – Association for Supply Chain Management
ASCM – Association for Supply Chain ManagementJun 1, 2026

Why It Matters

Investing in flexible, family‑friendly policies and regular pay benchmarking strengthens driver retention, giving trucking firms a competitive edge in a tight labor market.

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize flexible scheduling and remote/hybrid options for drivers
  • Offer childcare support and proximity‑based routes for early‑parent drivers
  • Improve early‑tenure drivers’ shifts, schedules, and compensation packages
  • Benchmark market pay promises against actual annual compensation outcomes
  • Conduct quarterly pay reviews to stay competitive and retain talent

Summary

The video addresses a pressing question for trucking firms: where to focus workforce investments first. It argues that the most effective starting point is designing leadership tracks and job structures that align with drivers’ personal responsibilities, emphasizing flexible schedules, remote or hybrid roles, and proximity‑based routes that accommodate early‑parenting needs.

Key recommendations include providing childcare support, improving shift patterns, and offering more competitive pay for early‑tenure drivers. Companies are urged to benchmark their compensation promises against actual market pay annually, and for larger, diversified fleets, to conduct quarterly pay audits. These practices keep firms attuned to workforce sentiment and competitive pressures, enhancing recruitment and retention.

The speaker highlights, “We design leadership tracks that accommodate life’s responsibilities with flexible scheduling, remote or hybrid positions, and childcare support,” underscoring the human‑centric approach. Real‑world examples cite proximity‑based driving that lets parents stay close to home during critical early years.

By adopting these strategies, trucking companies can reduce driver turnover, attract new talent, and maintain a cost‑effective labor pool, directly impacting profitability and industry stability.

Original Description

From flexible schedules to childcare support to more transparent pay practices, Leah Shaver from NTI outlines where trucking companies should focus their workforce investments to improve recruiting and retention.
This clip highlights why aligning leadership design, compensation promises, and real-world outcomes is critical to staying connected to the workforce—now and in the future.
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