Introduction
The main economic activity in this country is trade as most industries in Canada rely on commercial trucking for delivery of their products. From coast to the coast, truck drivers are the supply chain workers who use their vehicles to transport food and other perishable goods and even non-essential items. The number of professional truck drivers today has increased tremendously over the years creating very attractive jobs for those who wish to drive.
In this article, let us discuss 10 persuasive arguments why now is the right time for one to become a truck driver in Canada.
1. Booming Transportation Industry
Trucking is an essential industry in Canada because more than 70% of goods are transported through the industry.
With increasing consumerism and growth of the economy, there is every day an upward trend in the demand for professional truck drivers.
Imagine the food, or medical supplies, because of the services rendered by these truck drivers, they transport goods that are vital for the country.
2. National Shortage of Truck Drivers
Currently there is a shortage of truck drivers in Canada. From the reports by the industry, many thousands of truck driving job openings go vacant every year.
This has arisen from the retirements of drivers, there being few fresh entrants into the labour market, coupled with the growing and diversifying demand of the logistics industry.
For the young people joining the job market, it means increased employment opportunities, improved remuneration packages and higher wages.
3. High Earning Potential
Another factor that makes people attracted to this line of work is the salary rate of a truck driver in Canada. New drivers can earn their starting wages or even more than that while the professional long-haul drivers can earn a substantially higher wage, much more, if they ensure specialized endorsements like the air brakes or the hazardous materials among others.
Also, the company provides for overtime and bonuses which improves the income of hard working drivers.
4. Immigration Pathways for Truck Drivers
Also, truck driving is one of the skilled occupations in Canada, which makes it very suitable for immigrants.
Most of the provincial and federal immigration systems, such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), give preference to truck drivers because the demand for the profession’s services is very high.
However, this makes it rather easier for international drivers to find employment hence their permanent residence in Canada.
5. Job Stability and Security
Other professions which may be in one way or the other threatened by issues such as automation or economic downturn do not apply in this career.
Transportation is always required even in a world of e-commerce hence the need for professional drivers to serve this market. This stability is particularly desirable in a situation when there are some concerns regarding economic stability.
6. Flexible Work Opportunities
A truck driving career in Canada has various work opportunities.
There are long distances that can cover provinces and there are deliveries within a few areas where the drivers could go home in the evening. There are people who prefer to drive alone; there are also those who find team driving enabling.
Such flexibility of work is likely to help drivers to get jobs that they love and manage their lives as they prefer.
7. Rapid Training and Licensing
Compared to other professions, becoming a truck driver does not entail years of study in school.
Students are even able to boot into the sector and land jobs through the Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) and/or other courses on AZ, or DZ licenses that learners can take in a few months.
The great advantage of this, is a direct fast-track career choice for those looking for a job as soon as possible.
8. Opportunities for Career Growth
Truck driving career in Canada is not only about operating trucks. Subsequently, drivers are promoted to other positions including the fleet managers, dispatchers or even logistic coordinators.
Also, specialization is possible with such subfields as heavy-haul trucking, refrigerated transport, and operations with tanker vehicles which pay more and are challenging at the same time.
9. Adventure and Independence
Trucking is another odd job that provides those who like exhaustless traveling. Some truckers have an adventurous lifestyle. Truck drivers are able to travel through most parts of Canada because the job entails working alone on long routes.
Truck drivers, unlike many office jobs, provide a sort of independence and this is one of the attractions of the job.
10. Contribution to Essential Services
Truck drivers are considered to be key workers as it has been seen during the COVID -19 pandemic. They make sure that communities get vital products such as food, medical instruments and fuel.
Pursuing a truck driving profession in Canada comes with the responsibility of being among the key drivers of the economy and the daily happenings in this country.
Conclusion
Being a truck driver in Canada is more than earning a paycheck, it is an opportunity to work in a stable career, have an opportunity to grow and be part of the career that supports the country. High demand for qualified drivers, rather generous income, good opportunities for immigrants combine to make this field popular among potential employees. Truck driving is one of those jobs that could turn into a great career and would always provide stability in a person’s life.
FAQ
1. How long does it take to become a truck driver in Canada?
Generally, the average time taken to complete many of the truck driving programs including the MELT program is around four to twelve weeks.
2. What is the average salary of a truck driver in Canada?*
The salary paid to truck drivers in Canada is $60,000 to $75,000, particularly for the long-route and the specialized drivers.
3. Is there a specific age requirement for truck drivers in Canada?
Yes, you have to be at least 18 to get a commercial driver’s license, but some provinces may limit drivers to 21 years for some types of licenses.
4. Can immigrants apply for truck driving jobs in Canada?
Absolutely. Due to the factors highlighted in this paper, truck driving is classified as a skilled profession and many immigration programs apply a priority to this profession.
5. What are the main licenses needed to start a truck driving career in Canada?
There are two general license types, AZ license for large trucks and DZ license for smaller commercial vehicles.
