Rewriting recruiting rules

CDL training has come a long way, but recruiting and retaining drivers remains one of the industry’s toughest challenges. Fleets aren’t just competing on pay anymore—they’re up against shifting expectations around safety, tech and work-life balance. We spoke with a recruiter to get his take on how technology is changing the game and what small fleets can do to stand out.

Also inside: how fleets are navigating cross-border tariffs, what AI actually looks like in day-to-day operations, and why sharing business metrics with drivers might boost engagement. Plus, leadership changes at FMCSA, broker transparency updates and which truck models Kenworth is sunsetting.

 ⬆️$3.557

AVG. COST OF DIESEL PER GALLON IN U.S. AS OF 3/24, UP 0.018¢

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

The new world of CDL training and driver recruitment

Truck drivers have options when selecting a fleet to work with—and they're well aware of that fact. So, the question for trucking managers and executives is how can we best position our company to attract and retain talented drivers? 

We chatted with Jeff Burkhardt, senior director of CDL operations for commercial driver training at Ancora Education, for his recruitment tips, along with some ways technology is making a difference in CDL training. -Shefali Kapadia

What's the biggest challenge in recruiting new truck drivers to the workforce?

The primary challenge continues to be a lack of home time. While many positions are available that have drivers home daily or every other day, the long-haul trucking sector where drivers are away 7+ days at a time are the most difficult to fill. For women interested in truck driving as a career path, one additional concern is safety on the road. Not actual driving, but safety when stopping for extended periods—10 hours per 24-hour segment being required by law. Lack of safe and designated truck parking is being addressed at the legislative level with collective voices advocating for change. 

Have new trucking technologies or regulations led to any changes in CDL training?

Yes! Although not new, DOT’s Entry Level Driver Training regulations implemented a few years ago transformed the training industry. These regulations mean every driver must first complete a training program administered by providers that meet specific training requirements. Self-taught drivers cannot acquire their CDL, they must undergo formal training. Providers meeting standard requirements have produced safer-performing new drivers. New technology and safety systems incorporated into working trucks are also present in training vehicles. Not only does this create a safe platform to train with, but it also prepares students for what they will benefit from when driving as a career. 

What kinds of tech tools or apps are you using to augment CDL training?

Driving simulators continue to advance in both functionality and scale of use. Although a physical driving environment is obviously not possible with simulators, even base units are very effective in helping student drivers learn the skills required to pass a CDL Skills Test. Premium models are able to almost fully replicate the driving experience with multiple front and side views, physical in-cab replication with layout of seat, instruments and operating systems and more. Students can inspect virtual systems and components, preparing them for the Vehicle Inspection component of the Skills Test they will eventually face. 

What's something exciting or hopeful about the newest generation of truck drivers or trucking workforce?

As workplaces and schools become more welcoming, inclusive environments, a greater range of people are considering a career in driving. Statistics show that more people from diverse backgrounds are discovering this industry, and that is particularly true for the younger generation of drivers, who have grown up in a cultural environment that is more welcoming to everyone. This is a huge benefit to the industry, particularly since the driver shortage continues to be a significant issue. 

What's your No. 1 piece of advice to small fleet owners to recruit and retain truck drivers?

Always confidently and clearly communicate how driving with your company is in the best interest of the candidate driver. With CDL holders being in high demand at every level of the sector, they are well aware that they have many options to choose from. Do not disparage other carrier employers. Rather, emphasize the positives of your own company, bring a legitimate value-added proposition. You will benefit much more from a new hire who wants to drive for you instead of only coming to you because they don’t want to drive for someone else. The same can be said for retaining drivers.

Why biz economics should matter to you and your employees

Leaders and managers are laser-focused on metrics, KPIs and performance, but that focus doesn't always trickle down to employees. Should it?

Bill Fotsch, founder and president of Open-Book Coaching Inc., argues that employees who understand metrics and have a stake in their company's success are more motivated.

"By giving them a voice in the important metrics of your business, their level of engagement—real engagement—soars."

For example, drivers could understand how common metrics like on-time delivery percentage or fuel efficiency contribute to the overall fleet's performance.

Why this matters: A trucking business's success is intertwined with the actions of its drivers and employees. With recruitment and retention as well-recognized challenges across the industry, empowering employees with success metrics can only help. 

Get more details at Inc.

FALSE DOCS: Trucking owner gets four years in prison for lying to FMCSA

ASSET ACQUISITION: Kreilkamp Trucking buys trailers, contracts from Gray Transportation

MORE TIME: DOT extends deadline for NY to end congestion pricing

SUNSET TRUCKS: Kenworth phases out production of three truck models

 "Finding solutions and being on the spot 24/7, there's just a drive that goes along with it. When you get involved, you can't get back out." - Abbie Nale, Knichel Logistics

Many leaders in trucking or logistics end up in the industry because of family legacy, while others stumble into it by chance. But both types of people can quickly become enthralled and dedicated to the job, with so much valuable information to learn in the fast-paced sector. As Nale put it: "The people who really get into it and love it can't leave it." Watch her interview here.

How small carriers are battling cost pressures

A long freight recession, low rates and rising expenses have pushed small fleets to carefully scrutinize their cost structures and investments. One carrier is focusing on maintenance to extend the lifespan of its equipment, while another has avoided large capital expenditures by leasing trucks and trailers.

Why this matters: The volatile freight market of the last few years has led to some carriers folding operations or filing for bankruptcy. If fleets can trim costs while maintaining high standards, it may help them stay afloat during tough times. (Truck News)

Fleets upgrade cross-border services ahead of tariffs

Some shippers are looking to move freight to and from Canada and Mexico ahead of the tariffs, set to take effect in April. And carriers are, well, delivering. Estes added a next-day service from terminals in the mid-Atlantic to Toronto, while Pitt Ohio added LTL service to six Texas cities along the border with Mexico.

Why this matters: Supply chain leaders are doing what they can to mitigate risk and avoid extra costs due to tariffs. Savvy fleets are capitalizing on a key area of demand by offering cross-border services before the duties kick in. (Trucking Dive)

Broker transparency proposal wraps up with 7K comments

Comments are now closed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's broker transparency proposal after the agency reopened the comment period. Altogether, about 6,900 comments were submitted.

Why this matters: The FMCSA is now tasked with deciding whether to move forward with broker transparency as a final rule. Those in favor of stricter transparency rules say it would protect small fleets, while those opposed say increased regulations would harm carriers, brokers, shippers and consumers. (Land Line)

How trucking leaders are bringing AI into ops

Carriers are examining the best ways to incorporate artificial intelligence into their operations. Two fleets, Grand Island Express and D.M. Bowman, said they use AI to help with dispatching and image recognition on in-cab cameras. They're also tapping into AI for email management and driver communications.

Why this matters: Myths about AI taking and eliminating jobs are starting to fade, as executives and employees realize the productivity benefits of technology and how AI can work alongside them. The key is for fleets to start small, identify real challenges and figure out how AI can solve those specific pain points. (CCJ Digital)

FMCSA acting head steps down from post

Just two weeks after being appointed by President Trump as the Acting Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Adrienne Camire has left the role. No replacement has been named yet, and the agency has not provided a reason for her departure. Her sudden exit has raised questions within the industry, especially given the short duration of her tenure.

Why this matters:  It’s not unusual for FMCSA to operate under acting leadership, but Camire’s abrupt exit adds to the uncertainty around the agency’s direction. With major decisions on broker transparency, safety tech and driver training still on the table, the lack of stable leadership could delay key policy moves. (Overdrive)

Thanks for reading today's edition! You can reach the newsletter team at editor@theinsidelane.co. We enjoy hearing from you.

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The Inside Lane is curated and written by Shefali Kapadia and edited by Bianca Prieto.