Technology
Commercial freight transportation businesses rely on data, intelligence, and novel solutions for operational efficiency. Transport Topics technology coverage investigates available technologies, real-world applications of business solutions, and the strategies necessary for advancement. News topics focus on the latest applied science, and issues range from autonomous vehicle and robotics innovations to management software, tracking and transparency, data analytics, blockchain, and the internet of things.
Closing the Skills Gaps
It's important for technicians to be savvy with technology, but companies will also train mechanically inclined techs and teach them new skills.
Understanding the Numbers Behind the Technician Shortage
For what seems like ages, whenever discussions occur within this industry about the technician shortage, this question inevitably arises: “Just exactly how many technicians do we need?” A fair question, right? But not an easy one to answer.
Game On: Trucking Gets Creative in Attracting Young Technicians
Millennials and Generation Z have grown up surrounded by sophisticated technologies — such as video games and augmented reality — that now are making the transition from personal pastime to business tools.
Boeing to Take $4.9 Billion Charge Over Grounded 737 Max Jet
Boeing is booking a $4.9 billion charge to cover possible compensation to airlines that have canceled thousands of flights since the 737 Max jet was grounded after two deadly accidents, the aircraft manufacturer said July 18.
FutureTech Champ Advances Her Career
Bonnie Greenwood, the first female TMC FutureTech champion, is a shop technician with FedEx Freight.
Schools Eye Technician Students
The diesel technician shortage is a concern within the trucking industry, and technical schools said they’re reaching out to students as early as seventh grade and connecting with adults who want to work with their hands.
Clear Career Paths Needed for Technicians
Creating a clear path for career advancement to help attract and retain diesel technicians is key to growing trucking's pool of future leaders, industry experts said.
Electric Trucks Will Demand New Expertise
Some industry representatives suggest that electric-powered vehicles will not only reduce diesel pollutants, but also attract a new generation of recruits to the field of heavy truck maintenance.
Former Army Mechanic Is Now a Truck Tech
Former Army mechanic Lindsay Dunham says the “unpredictable nature” of her job and being able to work with her hands are among the things she enjoys most about being a big-truck technician.
Talent Wanted: Truck Technicians
Trucking companies are pulling out all the stops to find, recruit, educate, train, develop and recognize the next generation of commercial vehicle technicians. It’s a fundamental issue as the industry’s workforce of technicians continues to age toward retirement, while at the same time, there’s a scarcity of young men and women coming into the profession to fill their ranks.