Strategic Location Near Major Markets

The distribution centers in New Jersey are strategically set close to major highways like Interstate 95 and I-78, and near heavily populated urban centers, including New York City and Philadelphia. This connects truckers to a consumer base of over 27 million people in the immediate area and nearly 100 million in surrounding states. Because of this, trucking jobs here are varied and plentiful, ranging from quick local deliveries deep within urban neighborhoods to regional hauls linking warehouses and distribution points across state lines.​

A Range of Freight Types and Trucking Opportunities

New Jersey’s warehouses handle a wide array of freight. Drivers may find themselves delivering retail goods, fulfilling e-commerce orders, handling food-grade shipments, or moving containerized cargo imported through the port. This translates into diverse trucking roles. Some drivers focus on last-mile delivery in busy cities, while others specialize in container drayage, transporting cargo from the port to local warehouses. There are also longer-haul routes connecting New Jersey to neighboring states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Delaware.​

Modern Facilities Enhance Efficiency and Safety

Many distribution centers in the state are equipped with features such as climate control and advanced loading docks. These modern facilities improve safety and speed for drivers and make handling specialized freight easier. They also offer opportunities to work flexible shifts, which can help drivers balance their professional and personal lives better than typical long-haul schedules.​

Impact of Port Proximity and Supply Chain Integration

The Port of New York and New Jersey drives much of the trucking activity in the state. Containers offloaded at the port rapidly move to nearby distribution centers, allowing drivers to engage in high-turnover routes. Truckers working drayage benefit from drop-and-hook setups, which reduce downtime and allow for efficient load switching. The integration of ports, warehouses, and highways creates a reliable flow of freight that fuels continuous job opportunities.​

Growth and Challenges in Logistics Development

While New Jersey remains a top logistics hub, warehouse construction has slowed due to local resistance and stricter regulations. That said, many existing centers are operating at high capacity, maintaining significant trucking demand. Redevelopment continues in key spots like Mercer and Middlesex counties, keeping New Jersey competitive in supply chain logistics. Drivers should watch for new regional projects as they create more routing options without requiring a change in the established logistics corridors.​

What Drivers Can Expect

• A broad variety of routes and job types to fit different experience levels
• Opportunities to specialize in container drayage, grocery delivery, or e-commerce freight
• Reduced empty runs thanks to a cluster of freight hubs close together
• Flexible shift possibilities improve quality of life
• Work environments enhanced by modern loading facilities and equipment

For truck drivers wanting steady work and varied routes, New Jersey’s dense distribution center network near major highways and ports offers unmatched opportunities. Staying informed about new projects and market trends in the state will help drivers find the best match for their skills and lifestyle.

Start exploring New Jersey’s trucking jobs today through TruckDriversUSA for roles that fit your experience and schedule in one of the nation’s liveliest logistics markets.

The post How New Jersey’s Dense Distribution Centers Support Diverse Trucking Routes appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The annual campaign—now in its tenth year—is a collaboration between Kenworth, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program. It’s designed to spotlight military service members who have successfully transitioned into professional driving careers.

“This year’s ‘Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence’ award semi-finalists exemplify the dedication, leadership, and commitment to service that military veterans bring to the trucking industry,” said Kyle Kimball, Kenworth director of marketing. “Kenworth is proud to partner with Fastport and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative for the tenth year, and we look forward to recognizing the distinguished semi-finalists who continue to serve our country through excellence behind the wheel.”

2025 Transition Trucking Semi-Finalists Named

The drivers selected for this year’s honor come from diverse military backgrounds and were trained by various respected institutions. The 12 semi-finalists are:

• Kathleen (Kat) Carreto, U.S. Army National Guard (E-5), Roehl Transport
• Bradley Lecky, U.S. Army (E-4), Crawford Electric, a Sonepar USA Company
• Federico Hudson, U.S. Air Force (E-7), Van Wyk, Inc.
• Gaylon Hensley, U.S. Army (E-7), Melton Truck Lines
• Daniel Hemphill, U.S. Army (E-4), Wayne R. West Trucking
• Mark Scriven, U.S. Army (E-6), Stevens Transport
• Joseph Barotti, U.S. Air Force (E-6) and U.S. Marine Corps, Werner Enterprises
• Nicholas Baughan, U.S. Army (E-5), Werner Enterprises
• Macy Mattice, U.S. Army (E-4), Melton Truck Lines
• Ryan Gordon, U.S. Army (E-5), Prime Inc.
• Precious Cannon-Scott, Air National Guard (E-4), Prime Inc.
• Charles Jones, Jr., U.S. Army (E-7), Roehl Transport

Honoring a Decade of Veteran Impact

First launched in 2016, the Transition Trucking award continues to serve as a powerful platform for uplifting veterans entering the transportation workforce. The 2025 semi-finalists will be honored at a special event on September 18 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. A visit to the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing facility will follow, where finalists will be named.

Each year, Kenworth donates a truck to the winner, and this year’s prize is a T680 featuring a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and high-end amenities like a fridge, TV space, and GT703 ultraleather heated and cooled seats.

The truck also includes cutting-edge safety features such as Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, Kenworth’s DigitalVision Mirrors, and Lane Keeping Assist.

“The Transition Trucking award campaign continues to highlight the extraordinary impact veterans are making in the transportation industry while also inspiring a new generation of service members to explore the real economic opportunities a trucking career can provide,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes. “As we celebrate a decade of partnership with Kenworth and Fastport, we’re proud to honor these remarkable individuals whose legacy will inspire and empower the veteran drivers of tomorrow.”

Brad Bentley, president of Fastport, added, “We’re honored to recognize this outstanding group of 12 semi-finalists, one of the most diverse and accomplished in the program’s history, including many participating in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. For 10 years, this campaign has changed lives by awarding a Kenworth truck to a deserving veteran, and this year’s finalists continue to prove that the future of our industry is in capable, committed hands.”

Finalist Selection and Public Voting

The winner of the 2025 award will be announced on December 12 during a veteran-focused celebration week. Public voting will take place online from November 1 through Veterans Day and will help inform the award’s final decision.

“This voting is an important determinant for the award’s Selection Committee, which makes the ultimate choice for the next Transition Trucking award winner,” Fastport stated.

Image Source: Kenworth
Source: The Trucker

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The special career day invited local children, including a Girl Scout troop and employees’ families, to get a firsthand look at what life is really like behind the wheel. From climbing into the cab of a semi to test-driving a high-tech simulator, the experience blended fun with future-focused learning.

Kids explored sleeper berths, played with balloon-powered trucks, and raced through hands-on craft activities. But at the heart of it all was a powerful message: trucking is a path worth exploring—and it’s never too early to be curious about where it can take you.

“We wanted to open kids’ eyes to career paths they might not hear about in school,” said Jessica Bochy-Deane, Aim’s Vice President of Marketing. “College is a great path for many, but it’s not the only one. Skilled trades like trucking offer fulfilling, stable careers right here in their communities. This was about expanding horizons and sparking curiosity.”

One of the biggest hits of the day was the WITney simulator trailer from the Women In Trucking Association. The immersive driving experience lets kids safely navigate turns, braking, and other road challenges behind a virtual wheel, offering a realistic taste of what truck driving involves.

Getting WITney to Girard took some real-life trucking hustle. Amanda DeMartinis, Aim’s Assistant Safety Director and a former driver, personally hauled the simulator up from Tennessee to make sure the kids got the full experience.

“It’s not always about a four-year degree,” said DeMartinis. “Trucking gave me a career I’m proud of — full of independence, new places, and challenges that built my confidence. I want kids to know there are many ways to succeed.”

Throughout the day, Aim team members—from dispatch to operations—shared their own paths into the industry, helping kids (and their parents) understand just how many different opportunities exist beyond the driver’s seat.

Jenny Fall, Director of Driver Engagement and Women in Trucking at Aim, joined DeMartinis in helping kids navigate the simulator and learn about life on the road. For the young girls in attendance, the impact was especially significant.

“A lot of girls just aren’t exposed to trucking as a career path,” said Trisha Mossor, Aim’s Business Development Manager and leader of the visiting Girl Scout troop. “Events like this help them see it’s a real option, and one they can be excited about.”

Scott Fleming, Aim’s President, reinforced the bigger vision behind the event. “Trucking is built on hard work, determination, and opportunity,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where you start—if you bring the right attitude, you can go far in this industry. Showing kids that message early, in a hands-on and fun way, is how we help build the future.”

Before heading home, each child received a custom Women In Trucking Girl Scout patch—a small keepsake with big meaning, marking what may be their first step toward a career that moves the world.

Image Source: Aim Transportation Solutions
Source: Truckers News

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(Source: DRC) Roniqua Garett (right) and Roni Brassfield (left), MTC CDL instructor

Breaking Barriers: Roniqua’s Journey

Pursuing her CDL at MTC Truck Driver Training in St. Ann, Missouri, Roniqua made history as the first African American woman to be awarded this scholarship. She faces the future with confidence and genuine excitement, seeing truck driving as much more than a job.

“I love to travel, and I love driving, so it seemed perfect to me,” Roniqua shared. “This is a great opportunity to build a better life for me and my kids.”

Thanks to this scholarship, Roniqua has been able to cover a sizeable part of her training costs. That peace of mind means she can devote her focus to learning and getting ready for her career on the road. She already has a job lined up for after graduation.

A Bright Spot in Trucking

Selecting Roniqua for the scholarship was a proud moment for those at the Driver Resource Center. Brock, who is the Director of Enrollment, offered high praise and encouragement:

“We are excited to award Roni the Future of Trucking Scholarship,” he said. “She has such a positive attitude and is determined to succeed.”

Roniqua’s award recognizes her determination and shows other women, especially women of color, what’s possible with grit and drive.

Encouraging Diversity Behind the Wheel

The trucking workforce has long been dominated by men, but this is beginning to change. The Women in Trucking Association points out that only about 8% of drivers in the US are women, and fewer still are African American. Each step forward, like Roniqua’s, helps chip away at those gaps.

Scholarships like this are an important part of opening doors and encouraging more women and minorities to explore trucking as a career. They help highlight how diverse voices and talents make the industry stronger and more innovative.

Expanding Opportunities: About the Scholarship

Created in 2024 for St. Louis residents, the Future of Trucking Scholarship was so successful that it now accepts applicants from Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Ohio, South Carolina, and Kentucky. The main goal is to help ease the financial load for those starting out in the trucking trade, allowing more people to chase their ambitions in a growing, dynamic field.

If you live in one of these states and have thought about truck driving as a career, you can apply for the next round. The application deadline is August 30. Applicants are assessed on their passion for the industry, resilience, and commitment—traits Roniqua displays in abundance.

How to Apply

Interested in taking your first steps toward a career like Roniqua’s? The Driver Resource Center is currently accepting new applications for the Future of Trucking Scholarship. Details and application forms can be found directly on their website.

Why Roniqua’s Story Matters

Roniqua’s success isn’t just her own; it marks real progress for anyone dreaming of a place in an industry where women and minorities have often been underrepresented. Her story offers hope and shows that with the right support, anyone with heart and commitment can find their path in trucking.

If you’ve ever imagined a career on the road, this scholarship might be your starting point. The industry is calling for people like you—ready to work, ready to learn, and ready to make a difference. With new doors opening each year, now is the perfect time to start your own story.

Source: Truckers News

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Source: Women In Trucking

The Impact of WITney® at Industry Events

Did you know that in 2024, the WITney® Educational Trailer traveled to 40 events? Nearly 7,500 visitors—primarily women and girls—stopped by to explore the many career opportunities available in trucking. From job fairs and community events to corporate gatherings and major industry conferences, WITney® has become an essential part of WIT’s mission.

Beyond WITney®, WIT’s President & CEO, Jennifer Hedrick, plays an active role in industry events, speaking and networking to further the organization’s mission. The goal is clear: educate, motivate, and inspire more women to enter trucking while also supporting those already in the industry by addressing challenges like work-life balance and gender bias.

Where You’ll Find WIT

Before committing to an event, WIT carefully evaluates its alignment with the organization’s mission and its potential reach. Once confirmed, the WIT team collaborates closely with event hosts to maximize impact.

One of the biggest annual events WIT attends is the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), held each March at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ken. As the largest trucking event in North America, MATS attracts more than 50,000 attendees and 870 exhibitors. WIT makes a strong presence at this event with both a booth and WITney®, strategically placed at a high-traffic location to engage women, girls, and allies interested in trucking careers.

WITney® isn’t just a mobile exhibit—it’s an interactive experience featuring:

• Educational kiosks covering Trucking 101, industry myths, FAQs, and a career quiz
• A wall mural showcasing WIT’s milestones since its inception in 2007
• Headset kiosks where visitors can hear inspiring HERstories from female truckers
• A female trucker uniform display featuring essential workwear and safety gear
• A state-of-the-art driver simulator that lets attendees experience truck driving in various weather and road conditions

Each year at MATS, WIT also hosts the highly anticipated Salute to Women Behind the Wheel, a celebration that honors and recognizes female truck drivers for their dedication and success in the industry.

WIT at the Food Shippers Conference

Another major event WIT attended this year was the 2025 Annual Food Shippers Conference, hosted by Food Shippers of America from March 2 to 4 at the J.W. Marriott Desert Springs in Palm Desert, Cali. Over 1,300 supply chain, transportation, and logistics professionals were in attendance.

Representing WIT at the conference were Jennifer Hedrick, Carleen Herndon (Member Services & Sales), Cassidy Mullins (Conference & Management), and Brian Everett (Content & Strategy). Their goal was to promote WIT’s mission and encourage greater female participation in the industry. WITney® was also present outside the conference center, helping to generate awareness about trucking career opportunities for women.

Special thanks to Walmart professional drivers Krista Cardoso and Vivian Gonzalez, who transported WITney® to the event and staffed the trailer.

Navigating WITney® into the venue’s parking lot was no small feat due to tight spaces and obstacles. “It was incredibly impressive,” said Hedrick, describing how the driver maneuvered WITney® through a difficult right turn surrounded by large rocks. “She navigated a really tight right turn coming out of the main entrance to the hotel that was lined with large rocks on all sides, really limiting her space to maneuver.”

“This roundabout at the front was filled with cars coming in and out, and she waited a long while for a clearing to begin turning,” Hedrick continued. “Then more cars, so she was doing all of this in front of a backup of cars and handled it so well.”

Want to Book WIT for an Event?

WIT is a trusted authority on women’s opportunities in trucking, offering insights, data, and best practices on industry trends. Their team regularly speaks at public and corporate events, trade shows, and even ride-alongs.

If you’re interested in having WIT at your next event, complete a Booking Request Form to explore potential opportunities!

Source: Women In Trucking

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Trucking: A Backbone of National Employment

Trucking is one of the largest employment fields in the country, offering livelihoods to millions of Americans. Data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA) reveals that over 3.6 million individuals work within the industry, either as drivers or in support roles. This massive workforce ensures the reliable delivery of goods, enabling industries like retail, manufacturing, and healthcare to operate effectively.

Vast Career Possibilities

The trucking sector provides a wide range of career paths for people with diverse skills and expertise. From driving long hauls to managing supply chains as dispatchers, or maintaining fleets as mechanics, there’s an opportunity for nearly every interest. Additionally, rapid growth in areas like freight logistics and supply chain operations means new career openings keep emerging, making trucking a promising industry for job seekers.

Supporting Local Communities

Trucking doesn’t just impact the national economy—it plays an essential role in strengthening local economies, too. Trucking companies provide employment opportunities to workers ranging from drivers to administrative staff, helping create stable jobs at the community level. Furthermore, by transporting the goods that small businesses need to succeed, trucking indirectly fosters the growth of regional enterprises and encourages sustained economic activity.

Challenges in a Booming Industry

While trucking contributes significantly to employment and commerce, it’s not without obstacles. A recurring shortage of qualified drivers presents a challenge for the industry, emphasizing the importance of recruitment initiatives and training programs. Additionally, compliance with safety regulations and environmental policies introduces operational complexities and additional costs for trucking companies.

Driving Future Economic Growth

The trucking industry plays an indispensable role in powering employment and supporting economic progress. By creating diverse career opportunities, enabling business operations across industries, and boosting local economies, trucking continues to be a key force driving growth throughout the United States. Although challenges like driver shortages and regulatory demands remain, the trucking sector’s contribution to the economy cannot be underestimated—it’s a vital link in keeping America moving forward.

The post The Role of Trucking in Boosting Employment Across America appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The announcement took place at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., where Troxell was presented with a brand-new Kenworth T680—a generous donation from Kenworth, marking the ninth year of their support for this event.

A Legacy of Service

Troxell comes from a family with deep military roots, as his grandfather, father, and uncle all proudly served their nation. Following in their footsteps, Troxell joined the Army in 2004, dedicating 20 years of his life to service. His commitment earned him distinction, including a Purple Heart after sustaining severe injuries in 2009.

Much like his decision to dedicate himself to the military, his choice to enter the trucking industry was inspired by his family’s strong connection to the trade.

A Record-Setting Achievement

Fastport, a key partner in the award program, expressed gratitude to the community for their involvement. “Thank you to everyone who voted and contributed to one of our largest voter turnouts ever,” the organization stated on Facebook. “Thanks to Kenworth, Hiring Our Heroes, and all who made this possible. Together, we honor and support veterans transitioning into the trucking industry.”

Honoring Finalists

The ceremony also recognized the other exceptional finalists who have transitioned from military service to successful trucking careers. Navy veteran Douglas Couch, a driver for Roehl Transport, Inc., was named runner-up and received a $10,000 cash prize.

Additionally, runners-up Shawn Haley, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran driving for Veriha Trucking LLC, and Billy Taylor, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran with Werner Enterprises, each received $5,000.

“These individuals have successfully transitioned from military service to driving careers, and their stories inspire others to follow suit,” said Brad Bentley, President of Fastport. “They truly embody the potential of the next generation of trucking professionals.”

Beyond Awards

Finalists also received valuable memberships from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), with Couch additionally awarded access to the comprehensive Truck To Success program.

Eligibility and Program Details

To qualify for the Transition Trucking award, nominees must be U.S. residents who are military veterans or members of the National Guard or Reserves. They must have graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS- or CVTA-member driver training school with a valid CDL, and been employed by a carrier or fleet committed to hiring veterans after Jan. 1, 2023.

For more information about the program and future awards, visit the official Transition Trucking website.

Source: Land Line

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Veterans Bring Valuable Skills to Trucking

According to Ross Dickman, CEO of Hire Heroes USA, veterans offer “tremendous value” to industries nationwide, with proven leadership and a competitive edge that benefits every sector they join. In trucking, these skills translate into dependable drivers, effective fleet managers, and skilled logistics coordinators who are capable of navigating the industry’s demands. The report emphasizes that veterans make up around 5% of transportation and warehousing hires, and this trend signals a steady integration of skilled, dedicated workers into the trucking field.

High-Demand Job Functions and Opportunities Nationwide

Veterans are securing roles in diverse areas—many of which align with the trucking industry’s needs. Top positions include maintenance and repair, security, training and instruction, and analyst roles, each supporting key trucking operations. Additionally, cities like Washington, D.C., San Diego, and Virginia Beach lead as employment hubs, though veteran-friendly jobs can be found nationwide, with rural and metropolitan areas alike seeing benefits.

Hire Heroes USA’s Impact on Veterans and the Industry

Hire Heroes USA has helped over 100,000 clients transition into civilian roles, strengthening industries like trucking while providing veterans and their families with economic stability. The organization’s coaching, resume support, and interview preparation help veterans translate their unique skills to roles that require both responsibility and resilience—qualities that resonate strongly with the values of the trucking industry.

Explore the Full Report

For a closer look at the full report and to explore more about how veterans are shaping transportation, logistics, and beyond, visit the Hire Heroes USA website. This detailed resource underscores the impact of veterans on industries nationwide and how trucking, in particular, stands to benefit from the integration of these skilled professionals.

Source: The Trucker

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