There is already a shortage.
IIRC the ATA (if you believe their BS) indicated a 135,000 shortage of qualified drivers in 2011.
This is the reason companies like FedEx and ConWay are utilizing a driver training program....nobody wants to work for them.
The word is out.
Stay the hell away from LTL!!!!
The idea of a qualified driver demanding the highest wages is debatable...I used to believe this...not so sure anymore.
The industry via the government...the FMCSA and the ATA have done everything in their power to water down and dilute the professionalism of the average driver.
Many of you may not remember...but it was just a few short years ago that truck driving was declared as not being a "skilled trade"...
These companies want qualified drivers well enough...they just don't want to pay for it....and the ATA is the sounding board for the entire fiasco...lobbying efforts and all.
Just look at the recent success they had regarding the HOS changes.
The advent of the CSA manifesto has furthered the demise of the profession...the Fed in its fervor to rid the industry of "killer" drivers have by implication and authority caused the demise of many qualified drivers...
One and Done...
Legislated by people who have zero idea of what it takes to do the job...just as it looks good on paper and to the tax paying public.
Que Sera Sera
Rat
