As Chairman of the Board for the Alabama Trucking Association, I ask all Alabamians to join me in recognizing the incredible contributions of our industry’s most valuable players: Professional truck drivers.
This week, as America’s trucking industry observes National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (Sept. 15-21, 2024), it is important to highlight the vital role these individuals play in supporting our industry and economy. Without their dedication to safely delivering the items we need to care for our families, our lives would be entirely different. They truly are the backbone of our economy.
With 3.5 million professional truck drivers nationwide, these women and men ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods that uphold our standard of living and the American way of life. From coast to coast, these professionals work hard, delivering essential goods to our communities.
In Alabama, 86 percent of communities rely entirely on trucking to provide essential goods, while 81 percent of the state’s manufactured goods are transported by truck. This showcases the indispensable role our industry plays in economic prosperity and growth. And with one in every 13 jobs in Alabama connected to trucking, it is clear that our industry is not just vital—it is essential.
As we celebrate these incredible individuals, I encourage you to take a moment to thank the truck drivers you encounter whether it’s on the road, at a rest stop, or while making a crucial delivery to your business. A simple wave and words of support can go a long way in showing your appreciation for the hard work and commitment they demonstrate daily.
Additionally, we should also seek to attract prospective talent to these in-demand careers. As part of Alabama Trucking’s ongoing efforts to bring more qualified individuals to the industry, I urge you to explore our new workforce training website, MyTruckingFuture.com. This platform offers valuable resources and insights about the diverse career paths available in the trucking industry. If you know a young person who could be a great fit for a career in trucking, tell them about the “My Trucking Future” initiative.
Truck drivers are true American heroes who deserve our gratitude not just during these special days but every single day of the year. Their reliability and dedication to safety are paramount in maintaining our high quality of life. Let’s do our part to honor these hardworking individuals who keep our supply chains moving and our economy thriving.
Joe Black is Director of Sales for McGriff Tire & Service Co. of Cullman, Ala., and the current Chairman of the Board for the Alabama Trucking Association.
