7 Ways Technology Is Making Truck Driving A More Attractive Profession

As we head into 2018, the driver shortage continues to be a key focus for the transport industry.  Industry leaders are focused on how to get a wide range of drivers, especially from younger generations, behind the wheel.

In Australia an innovative idea has grown into a clever organisation that involves more young women in the trucking industry. The Pilbara Haulage Girls provide professional development opportunities and career pathways, run tailored boot camps, promote stories of female truckies and are conducting research on the minority group. They’ve made trucking more appealing to women through smart thinking and execution.

Technology can further add to the ‘cool’ factor of a job - and this can’t be underestimated in changing the perceptions of the trucking industry. Prospective drivers need to see that the transport industry can provide a highly skilled, forward-thinking and rewarding career. Upgrading and modernising your business with technology like GPS truck tracking, cameras and smartphones is one way to show prospective drivers that you have the edge.

Here are 7 technologies that make trucking better for drivers:

1. Machine monitoring: Vehicle status and engine diagnostic technology provides insight into vehicle health and performance - which is important for drivers carrying dangerous substances or new drivers lacking experience with equipment warning signs.
2. GPS truck tracking: Real-time data allows fleet managers to monitor drivers and highlight any alarming behavior. Instead of thinking of this as ‘big brother’, consider the metrics that could signal driver fatigue such as harsh braking and cornering. This can be key for making new drivers more comfortable with long hours, or supporting drivers with particular health issues.
3. On board technology: Modern trucks have everything from Adaptive Cruise Control, LED cornering and maneuvering lights, to Electronic Stability Programmes. These vehicles are feats of technology and their ‘bells and whistles’ should be celebrated and shared.
4. Smartphones and tablets: Loading, assessing, and securing freight, reports on machine health, RUC, and work hours – aside from driving, there’s a lot to do. Empower drivers by giving them personal devices to streamline processes, and gain greater insight into and control over the mechanics of the operation.
5. Satellite communication: Using satellite communication channels means that even in remote areas drivers can communicate. This can be hugely appealing to drivers concerned about heading out on the road alone such as new drivers, female drivers, and those with young families or concerns back home.
6. Telematics data: GPS truck tracking generates data on a wide range of metrics, so drivers and managers get insights into the vehicle and overall operations. Managers can use this data to create driver score cards - a healthy dose of competition can build a strong team and promote good safety culture.
7. Electronic logbooks: Tools like electronic logbooks reduce paperwork for drivers, and make compliance to workplace health and safety requirements much easier. Drivers can monitor, calculate and record work and rest times to make sure they meet fatigue management obligations.

Harnessing technological advances can make your workplace and the wider trucking industry more attractive to prospective employees, those considering a career change, and those who haven’t yet thought about a career in trucking.

Be innovative in your thinking and transform the culture and perceptions of the industry for the better.