The Baltimore bridge collapse and its ensuing supply chain consequences are stark reminders of the critical role that our nation’s interstate trucking industry plays in the American economy. Even before the tragedy, the nation’s manufacturers, farmers, and small businesses had been facing longer delivery waits and higher prices. By working together with truck drivers, autonomous trucks can help meet the growing demands of the supply chain while boosting resiliency.
Let me dispel any doubts: Truck drivers are essential, now and in the future. Federal data predicts a 50% increase in U.S. freight volume by 2050. With a current shortage of 78,000 drivers, projected to double by 2031, we simply don’t have enough drivers to meet growing demand. As we navigate the future of the supply chain, the numbers speak for themselves. Truck drivers remain vital, with autonomous trucks helping to bridge the growing gaps.
A study funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation projects autonomous trucks will create up to 35,100 new jobs annually across various sectors while increasing real GDP by more than $68 billion over 30 years. The autonomous truck industry hires truck drivers with commercial driver’s licenses while also creating jobs for a workforce to support the technology and movement of goods. From terminal operators to fleet technicians, remote assistance specialists to mapping experts, these jobs offer opportunities for people with diverse skill sets and educational backgrounds.
See also: The current state of autonomous trucking
The AV industry is taking additional steps to build this workforce and to support workers interested in these new jobs. Investments in job training, apprenticeships, and degree programs at schools like California’s DeAnza College and Pittsburgh Technical College help to equip students with the skills needed for this new workforce.
Policymakers nationwide are recognizing that truck drivers and autonomous trucks will thrive together. This year, South Dakota and Kentucky became the latest states to pass AV deployment legislation, with many lawmakers specifically pointing to the technology’s economic promise and how autonomous trucks will be integrated into their state’s transportation ecosystem. Half of all states now have a legal framework to support AV development and deployment. That means autonomous trucks can travel from Texas to North Dakota, and from Arizona to Florida.
Unfortunately, myths and misconceptions persist, resulting in attempts to stop the technology and its economic growth. To this point, bipartisan lawmakers in multiple states have reviewed and rejected proposals to ban autonomous trucks by permanently requiring a human observer. Last fall, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed similar legislation in order to allow the state’s top safety experts and law enforcement to continue the regulatory process and evaluation. Despite the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency's efforts on workforce matters and autonomous heavy-duty vehicles, it was disappointing to see the legislation reintroduced this year.
The AV industry is committed to continuing efforts with truck drivers, workers, and policymakers to support the current workforce while building for the future. The future of American trucking is not a zero-sum game. By embracing the partnership of truck drivers and autonomous trucks, we can empower workers, create new jobs, and drive our economy forward.
