ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Jason Grasso never thought he’d end up in a classroom reviewing a slideshow on trucking safety. 

What You Need To Know

According to data from the American Trucking Association, the industry was short around 80,000 drivers in 2022

It’s a number they expect to rise to 160,000 by 2031

One of the biggest factor contributing to the driver shortage is an aging workforce

Originally working in theater production, Grasso found himself unemployed and ready for a career change.  

“The arts aren’t that strong in Central New York. I needed employment and got my CDL,” said Grasso.

It’s that switch that brought him to Page Transportation outside Syracuse. He started working as a driver and then eventually led their new CDL training program.

“I’ve had guys [that are] 21, 22 [years of age] and into their late 50s,” said Grasso.

Grasso says while he sees steady enrollment in his classes, recruiting new drivers is one of the biggest challenges facing the trucking industry.

“You can have all the trucks and fuel, but if you don’t have anyone to drive them, you’ll have to wait,” said Grasso.

According to data from the American Trucking Association, the industry was short around 80,000 drivers in 2022. It’s a number they expect to rise to 160,000 by 2031.

Vincent DiNino works as a CDL program coordinator with the Trucking Association of New York. He brings this mobile driving simulator to events across the state, hoping to get people interested in being behind the wheel.

“We have a great opportunity with the BOCES network throughout New York state. We do many career days with the schools as well as companies,” said DiNino.

One of the biggest factors contributing to the driver shortage is an aging workforce, according to the ATA. They’re seeing more drivers retiring with not enough youth coming in.

DiNino also manages the Shay Legacy Foundation. It’s a group working to make the trucking industry more accessible for students by offering scholarships and discounts to driving schools. Students also have access to an internal networking database after graduation.

“We have opportunities for them to post their resume on our website, where some 500 members can decide whether that would be a good fit for them if they are looking for employees in any part of their operation,” said DiNino.

Grasso says the biggest thing he works with students on is managing what life as a truck driver could look like. He says new regulations and rising inflation have changed the industry.

“The rates are getting lower and lower, the restrictions are getting harder,” said Grasso.

But despite the challenges, Grasso says he’s ready to help the next generation of drivers get behind the wheel.