Exploring the Trucker Lifestyle: Insights from Fortis Institute on Navigating Driver Shortages

A local learning center for commercial driver’s licenses is shining a light on the urgent need for new truck drivers. As e-commerce grows, so does the demand for drivers to deliver our packages. Frank Tunis, the CDL Program Director at Fortis Institute, points out that the aging workforce is a major factor in the current shortage.

“People expect their Amazon packages to arrive quickly. It’s all on us drivers to make that happen,” Tunis explains.

With 40 years of experience, Tunis believes that being a truck driver is more than just a job; it’s a way of life. He recalls how, in his younger days, he sought adventure and new sights on the road. However, he notes that many baby boomers are retiring, creating a gap in the workforce.

“You need to be ready to be out for nights or even weeks at a time. Young people today often don’t want that,” Tunis says.

However, some students, like William Race, are eager to pursue a CDL. “There’s a family legacy in trucking, and I want to be part of it,” he shares. Though Race is focused on getting his license, he prefers local routes to stay close to family.

The CDL program offers a well-rounded education with 480 hours of training, covering safety, nutrition, and professional conduct on the road. Students spend ten weeks in the classroom, blending technical skills with lifestyle tips.

You can get your CDL at 18, but you must be 21 to drive out of Pennsylvania. Tunis notes that many new drivers are younger, looking for fresh starts, while others in their 30s and 40s are transitioning careers.

Statistics show that the trucking industry will need about 1.1 million new drivers over the next decade to keep up with demand (American Trucking Associations). This gap offers unique job opportunities for those willing to step in.

For those interested in a trucking career, it’s clear there’s a path filled with potential. The industry is calling for dedicated individuals ready to take the wheel.



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Trucker lifestyle,Driver shortages,CDL program,Aging workforce,E-commerce,Baby boomer generation,Job opportunities,Technical skills