Why Strengthening Veteran Pathways into Trucking Careers Matters for America

Understanding the Importance of Veteran Pathways in Trucking

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) recently made a call to action regarding the need for stronger pathways for veterans to enter trucking careers. At a hearing held by the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on December 2, 2025, ATA representatives emphasized how essential veterans are to keeping America's supply chain robust. Greg Hamm, a U.S. Army veteran and Vice President at Werner Enterprises, articulated this need and the unique skills veterans bring to the industry.

With nearly 200,000 service members transitioning from the military each year, the trucking industry stands at the forefront of offering them a viable career option. Hamm pointed out that veterans carry not only discipline and leadership qualities but also a strong work ethic, making them natural fits for the high-demand trucking roles. Companies like Werner Enterprises seek to embrace this untapped potential, currently employing around 20% of staff from military backgrounds, with an ambitious goal to increase that number to 25%.

The Skills Veterans Bring to Trucking Careers

Veterans possess an array of skills that translate seamlessly into the logistics and trucking fields. For instance, Army mechanics often acquire skills in vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting, essential for truck operation. Programs that support veterans’ transitions, like the one offered through Werner’s registered apprenticeship, provide pathways for these individuals to earn their Commercial Driver License (CDL) using their GI Bill benefits.

An example of success in this transition is Sgt. Eric Macedo, who advanced rapidly from earning his CDL to becoming a mentor and Road Team Captain. Such success stories underscore the industry's commitment to utilizing the robust skills veterans possess while fostering their growth in civilian roles.

Policy Recommendations for Better Veteran Integration

To bolster these opportunities, Hamm proposed several actionable recommendations during the hearing. Key among them is the need for enhanced funding for the CMV Operator Safety Training Grant Program. This grant would improve access to quality CDL instruction, facilitating a smoother transition for veterans into the trucking workforce.

Moreover, supporting the Warriors to Workforce Act could alleviate housing costs for veterans engaged in job training, thus promoting stability as they embark on new careers. By testing a streamlined approach through the Veterans Transition to Trucking Act, the oversight of apprenticeship programs can be simplified, ensuring quicker enrollment and support for veterans. Lastly, the TRANSPORT Jobs Act aims to help veterans and their spouses more easily secure jobs, thereby bridging gaps in the labor market.

Celebrating Progress and Advocating for Future Growth

The successful passage of the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act, an initiative that aims to cut bureaucratic red tape, highlights the potential of bipartisan support in aiding veterans transitioning to new careers. Hamm expressed optimism for continued bipartisan collaboration within the subcommittee, believing it will empower veterans and positively impact the economy.

Conclusion: The Role of Employers and Policymakers

Ultimately, fostering a supportive environment for veterans in trucking not only fuels the economy but also strengthens the industry as a whole. Employers who hire veterans often see enhanced workplace morale and productivity, making hiring veterans a smart business decision rather than an act of charity.

To ensure that this mission continues to thrive, stakeholders from both the public and private sectors must commit to developing programs that promote accessibility and integration for veterans into the trucking industry. By doing so, we can open doors for those who have served and continue to uphold the values of service and excellence in the workforce.