Building a Pathway for Students

The driving force behind the initiative is NGT co-founders David Dein and Lindsay Trent. Since starting a pioneering high school trucking curriculum at Patterson in 2017, NGT has helped spread similar opportunities to more than 50 schools nationwide. Their core aim is to make transportation and logistics careers accessible—and appealing—for young people, ensuring they leave school with skills in high demand. Dein’s vision has turned into a movement, fueled by federal, state, and private support.

Real Stories and Connections

Trevor McKee, an instructor with the Manitoba Trucking Association, traveled from Canada to experience the event firsthand. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “Engaging with Dave, Glenn, and their students provided a meaningful perspective on the potential direction of our own developing program. Additionally, connecting with fellow educators allowed me to gather innovative ideas and best practices that we can implement both now and in the future.” These kinds of connections aren’t just networking—they’re turning points for building a broader community of educators committed to making trucking a classroom reality.

Immersive Activities That Make a Difference

Attendees didn’t just sit through presentations—they got out of their seats and into real (and simulated) vehicles. One key exercise saw participants try to drive a golf cart while wearing “Fatal Vision” goggles. The task mimicked impaired driving, highlighting for future teachers the immediate impact of safety lessons on students. The hands-on portions of the event are meant to be unforgettable and easy to replicate, so trainers can inspire their own classes with the same sense of urgency and responsibility.

Embracing Technology in Truck Driver Training

One of the highlights was the discussion and demonstration around advanced driver training simulators, with Enrique Mar from Advanced Training Systems sharing how artificial intelligence is modernizing instruction and boosting safety. On a guided tour at PHS, educators examined the latest ATS simulators, experiencing the value of virtual reality in helping students build confidence and agility behind the wheel—well before they ever approach a real truck.

Glenn Ecalne, who teaches supply chain and financial literacy at PHS, also showcased how his program’s blend of classroom theory and practical experience sets a template for other schools. Patterson’s supply chain program provided an eye-opening example for many visitors, some of whom hope to launch similar initiatives back home.

Open Dialogue and Shared Insight

All through the event, teachers swapped stories and advice, cementing a sense of partnership. Panels included current and former students, giving educators direct feedback about what works and what doesn’t in trucking education. The event wrapped up with a Q&A session that turned into an organic brainstorming hour. As McKee succinctly shared, “I highly recommend this training to others in the field. For those already delivering similar programs, this experience offers valuable insights into the transportation, logistics, and supply chain industries.”

Commitment from Leaders and Sponsors

Backing from sponsors—including Advanced Training Systems, Tenstreet, and SambaSafety—was instrumental. Just as crucial was the enthusiastic endorsement of Dr. Reyes Gauna, superintendent of the Patterson Joint Unified School District, who assured educators: his office stands ready to help others develop robust technical and vocational curriculums.

Why Early Trucking Education Matters

With the trucking sector facing chronic driver shortages, reaching students before graduation is more important than ever. Most can’t get a commercial driver’s license while still in high school, but programs like those created by NGT offer essential exposure, technical knowledge, and hands-on safety training. Many students who have passed through these programs have gone on to earn CDLs and begin their careers in the industry.

By nurturing this early interest and equipping students with practical skills, NGT-supported schools are addressing real workforce gaps while giving young people a launchpad into one of the economy’s most essential industries.

Source: Patterson High School

The post Next Gen Trucking’s ‘Train the Trainer’ Event: Shaping the Future of Trucking Education appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Addressing a Critical Need

As NGT President and Co-founder Lindsey Trent explains, engaging younger generations is essential to the future of trucking. “These award winners are tackling one of the industry’s most pressing challenges,” Trent said. “They’re leading the way in demonstrating how to build career paths that young people not only want to begin but stay in.”

Honoring Innovation

The inaugural Career Catalyst Awards, sponsored by The National Transportation Institute, highlight fleets redefining recruitment and retention strategies. These forward-thinking companies have implemented initiatives such as offering CDL and diesel mechanic training, providing career advancement opportunities, and leveraging technology to make roles more efficient and appealing.

2025 Career Catalyst Award Winners:

• Alaska West Express
• Averitt
• Ben E. Keith Foods
• Boyd CAT
• Cal Valley Trucking
• Christenson Transportation
• Garner Trucking
• Ginsberg’s Foods
• Keller Trucking
• Kenan Advantage Group
• Key Oil
• Old Dominion Freight Lines
• Performance Food Service
• Republic Services
• Ryder System
• Upper Lake Foods

Building the Pipeline for Future Talent

Efforts by Career Catalyst Award winners include outreach programs such as high school and community college partnerships to launch CDL training, host student tours, and promote leadership development. “It’s about meeting young people where they are,” Trent emphasized. “Technology, advancement opportunities, and creating a vision for a long-term career are critical to engaging this demographic.”

Next Gen Trucking’s founder, Dave Dein, actively works to advance these efforts. “High schoolers are hungry for alternatives to traditional career paths,” he noted. “These awards highlight companies that provide those very opportunities, showing there’s a meaningful future in trucking.”

The Urgency of Youth Engagement

“Nearly half of today’s workforce is made up of Millennials, but they only account for 20% of the trucking industry,” said Leah Shaver, CEO of NTI and NGT board member. “It’s crucial to attract younger talent. The fleets recognized this year prove we can succeed in this effort.”

What’s Next for NGT?

Founded in 2021, NGT has partnered with schools and colleges nationwide to launch CDL programs for young adults. The organization aspires to cement trucking as “the career choice” for future generations by showcasing the importance of trucking and delivering on career promises.

For more details about the Career Catalyst Awards and NGT’s initiatives, visit nextgentrucking.org.

Source: The Trucker

The post NGT Recognizes 16 Fleets with Career Catalyst Awards for Inspiring the Next Generation in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.