Hosted by the American Trucking Associations, the conference is co-hosted by ATA’s Safety Management Council and Transportation Security Council. The event brings together industry professionals responsible for policy, risk management, compliance, and operational decision-making.

“Earlier this year, the 2025 SSHR National Conference in Louisville showcased the power of innovation and collaboration,” said Dan Horvath, ATA’s COO. “The sessions equipped safety, security, and HR professionals with practical strategies to meet today’s challenges and prepare for what’s ahead. The momentum from Louisville has us energized for the 2026 conference in Oklahoma City, where we’ll continue driving a safer, more secure, forward-thinking mindset for the industry.”

Conference details and focus areas

The 2026 conference is scheduled for April 1–3, 2026, at the Omni Oklahoma City. More than 400 attendees are expected to take part in educational sessions and networking opportunities.

Programming will be organized into four dedicated tracks:

• Safety
• Security
• Human resources
• Claims and loss prevention

Sessions are designed to deliver practical insight into current challenges, with discussions centered on real-world application rather than theory.

Speakers, sessions, and networking

The agenda includes three general sessions featuring industry leadership, including ATA President and CEO Chris Spear, along with keynote speaker Tim Richardson. Attendees will also participate in panels and interactive roundtables covering topics such as camera technology, driver coaching, artificial intelligence, and recruitment and retention.

“Our mission with SSHR is to create a space where trucking professionals can collaborate, grow, and elevate their impact,” said Jacob Pierce, executive director of ATA’s Safety Management Council & Transportation Security Council. “By uniting a wide range of expertise and perspectives, we strengthen the industry’s safety and security efforts while advancing a more innovative and supportive human resources landscape for the trucking workforce.”

In addition to educational sessions, the conference will feature networking events, including a casino night and an evening at TopGolf.

Registration now open

Registration is now available through ATA’s official SSHR conference website. The event continues to serve as a central meeting point for advancing safety, security, and human resources practices across the trucking industry.

Source: The Trucker

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Create a Real Presence Where Young People Are

Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok are where young adults spend a lot of time. The most effective fleets use these channels to post authentic content—real driver experiences, quick behind-the-scenes videos, and company updates that show what day-to-day driving is like. This type of content builds trust and helps candidates picture themselves joining your team.

Streamline the Hiring Experience

Application processes that work for everyone else won’t win over Gen Z. Forms should be short, mobile-friendly, and easy to fill out anytime, anywhere. Many forward-thinking fleets now offer virtual interviews and even app-based onboarding to get new hires started without delay.

Lead With True Flexibility

Rising generations value their time and work-life balance. Fleets that offer regular home time, flexible shifts, and even part-time driving roles see higher interest and lower turnover. Clear vacation policies and options for mental health days are no longer extras—they are expectations for modern drivers.

Highlight Tech-Investment and Sustainability

Newer drivers care about working for companies that use the latest technology and care for the environment. Point out tech features like smart routing, advanced safety systems, and upgraded cab amenities in job listings. Share ongoing improvements in eco-friendly practices to appeal to candidates who are passionate about sustainability.

Offer Growth and Learning Opportunities

No one wants to feel stuck in a dead-end job, including young drivers. Demonstrate a commitment to growth by offering paid training programs, mentorship with veteran drivers, and a clear path from rookie to expert. Many fleets offer skill-building workshops—both in-person and digital—that help drivers advance their careers and boost retention at the same time.

Tap Into Referrals and Local Partnerships

Your current team can help bring in the next wave of drivers. Employee referral programs, especially those that reward successful hires, are powerful recruitment tools. Establish relationships with community colleges, vocational programs, and local job fairs to connect directly with young job seekers in your area.

Build an Inclusive, Positive Culture

Younger drivers want transparency and respect. They look for fleets that promote diversity, recognize achievements, and provide health and wellness resources that show management cares about every driver, not just the bottom line. Simple steps—such as giving regular feedback, offering gym discounts or wellness apps, and fostering open communication—go a long way.

Combining these actions creates a real competitive advantage. Fleets that adapt and listen to young drivers’ needs fill open seats faster and build a more sustainable operation for years to come.

The post What Fleet Managers Should Know About Recruiting Young Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The launch comes at a crucial moment as the trucking industry grapples with unprecedented challenges in maintaining a steady workforce while continuing to underpin the state and national economy. By spotlighting a diverse array of lucrative career paths, FTA aims to attract new talent and create clear entry points for aspiring professionals to join the industry.

“Every truck on Florida’s roadways represents a team of skilled professionals making it all possible,” said Alix Miller, President and CEO of the Florida Trucking Association. “The trucking industry offers exciting, high-earning careers, many of which we want to highlight. The campaign includes first-hand accounts from employees about the skills and paths they’ve developed. We want to showcase the dynamic opportunities for Floridians to discover how their talents fit in this essential industry where innovation meets opportunity.”

Career Opportunities Beyond the Driver’s Seat

The focal point of this initiative is an informative, user-friendly website at www.floridatrucking.org/jobs. The platform provides a comprehensive resource for job seekers, featuring career insights, training opportunities, job postings, and direct connections to employers statewide. It also highlights various roles within the industry that extend far beyond driving, such as:

• Diesel Technicians ensuring trucks and trailers operate smoothly

• Manufacturing Experts responsible for creating and repairing truck components

• Brokers and Customer Operations managing vital client relationships

• Dispatch and Load Tracking Specialists serving as lifelines for drivers on the road

• Transportation Attorneys providing expert legal support on safety and regulatory compliance

• HR, Accounting, and Recruitment Professionals keeping trucking companies fully staffed

• Safety Trainers and Experts committed to keeping the roads safe for everyone

• Public Relations and Digital Communications Specialists sharing the trucking industry’s narrative

Multifaceted Campaign Promotion

The “Jobs Beyond the Wheel” campaign leverages an extensive multichannel marketing strategy to amplify its reach and impact. Efforts include placements in career-focused publications, presentations at public events like the Truck Driving Championships, collaborations with workforce development organizations, and targeted outreach to schools to inspire the next generation of trucking professionals. A robust presence across social media platforms ensures the campaign reaches audiences at every corner of the digital landscape.

According to Elizabeth Emmanuel, Vice President of Public Affairs at FTA and creative lead for the project, the campaign is designed to resonate with job seekers across all life stages. “‘Jobs Beyond the Wheel’ showcases different roles and people driving the trucking industry—for those looking for a job today, to students looking at opportunities after graduation,” Emmanuel explained. “Whatever stage of life, or level of education, we want people to think of the transportation sector as a compelling career choice.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Industry Professionals

This forward-thinking initiative is partly funded by FloridaCommerce and reflects FTA’s commitment to fostering a thriving workforce. By bridging the gap between skilled professionals and the trucking industry, the “Jobs Beyond the Wheel” campaign plays a vital role in ensuring the continued success of this essential sector.

To learn more about career opportunities or get started on your professional trucking path, visit www.floridatrucking.org/jobs.

Source: AJOT

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