The ATA has launched used its annual Trucking Australia 2025 conference in Adelaide in late April to launch its InRoads Workforce program .
The Trucking Association says it designed its InRoads Workforce program as a go-to resource for those exploring careers in the trucking industry, and says the program aims to address the growing labour shortfall, which currently sees more than 26,000 truck driver roles remain unfilled each year.
The ATA says the program is backed by its long-standing foundation sponsors, including Volvo Trucks, BP, and NTI, which it says have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to workforce inclusion and safety.
The ATA was also In partnership with its campaign supporters Teletrac Navman and the NHVR, saying that the initiative aims to reach more than 60,000 operators through state associations, ATA stakeholder networks and media channels.
ATA director of marketing and corporate partnerships, Bianca D’Rosario said that with the growth of online commerce and direct-to-door deliveries, the need to expand our talent pool has never been greater.
The program has targeted high school students and career changers, In response to trade-wide shortages, while also supporting key influencers such as parents, educators, and industry employers, which it believes will guide and grow interest in the sector.
The ATA says I t has launched two major resources under the program, including a Career Toolkit to help individuals explore trucking career pathways, and an Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit, supported by Teletrac Navman, to help businesses attract and retain a more diverse workforce.
The Career Toolkit provides insights into driver pay, licensing requirements, and career progression, while, the Inclusive recruitment toolkit offers practical guidance for creating safer, more welcoming workplaces.
The ATA says the initiative builds on the success of its original InRoads Diversity and Inclusion progam, which is now active in close to 70 workplaces.
“Together we can open up the industry to more diverse talent pools and tap into a broader range of skills and experience,” said Teletrac Navman’s director of global marketing operations, Megan Duncan.
The ATA echoed these messages at its recent Multicultural Driver Roundtable, where it said participants highlighted the importance of better training and workplace support.
ATA Board Member Ann Lopez said, that with growing labour shortages, these new resources are vital for attracting and keeping people in our industry.