WASHINGTON — A federal initiative designed to help military veterans transition into trucking careers is gaining support from motor carriers, with more than 13,000 hiring commitments and $3.5 million in funding for training programs announced during a Veterans Day event in Washington, D.C.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Administrator Derek Barrs joined veterans and trucking industry leaders on the National Mall Nov. 11 to recognize military service and provide an update on the Freedom Haulers initiative.
Launched in July, Freedom Haulers brings together federal agencies and trucking industry partners to help veterans pursue careers as professional truck drivers.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), the initiative has resulted in several developments:
- $3.5 million in FMCSA funding for training providers in 21 states to expand programs serving veterans.
- Hiring commitments from 12 trucking companies pledging to employ more than 13,000 veterans, with assistance from the Department of Labor.
- GI Bill benefits accessed by nearly 400 veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs as part of the initiative.
The hiring commitments represent planned employment opportunities rather than completed hires.
Helping veterans transition to trucking
“Today is all about delivering results for the brave men and women who sacrificed so much in defense of our nation,” Duffy said, noting that the initiative has helped raise awareness of trucking career opportunities among veterans while providing additional support for training.
“In just a few months, our Freedom Haulers campaign has raised awareness and helped hundreds of veterans pursue an exciting career in trucking,” he said.
Barrs emphasized the importance of helping former service members apply their experience and skills in civilian transportation careers.
“We’re proud to continue supporting the brave men and women who have fought to defend our freedoms as they begin the new mission of keeping our supply chains secure and resilient,” Barrs said.
Military experience translates to trucking careers
The Freedom Haulers initiative also includes efforts to simplify the process of obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for veterans with qualifying military driving experience.
As part of the program, FMCSA expanded eligibility for its Military Skills Test Waiver and Even Exchange programs, which allow qualified service members and veterans to bypass certain CDL testing requirements.
The changes include extending the post-service eligibility period for the Military Skills Test Waiver from one year to two years. The Even Exchange program allows qualifying military drivers to receive credit for both knowledge and skills testing requirements in participating states.
These programs are intended to reduce duplicative testing while recognizing experience gained operating heavy vehicles during military service.
Trucking industry welcomes veteran drivers
Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) President Jim Mullen highlighted the value veterans bring to motor carriers and the trucking workforce.
“Veterans bring discipline, teamwork, and a deep commitment to safety and service — qualities that make them exceptional professional truck drivers,” Mullen said. “We’re proud of the veterans across TCA’s member and affiliate companies and grateful for their service to our country.”
Freedom Haulers is a collaborative effort involving DOT, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Labor and the Department of War. The initiative provides information about CDL training, military experience waivers, education benefits and employment opportunities for veterans interested in entering the trucking industry.
Veterans and employers can learn more about the initiative and available resources at Freedom Haulers.
Linda Garner-Bunch has been with The Trucker since 2020, picking up the reins as managing editor in 2022. Linda has nearly 40 years of experience in the publishing industry, covering topics from the trucking and automotive industry to employment, real estate, home decor, crafts, cooking, weddings, high school sports — you name it, she’s written about it. She is also an experienced photographer, designer and copy editor who has a heartfelt love for the trucking industry, from the driver’s seat to the C-suite.
