Alabama Trucking celebrates America’s 3.5 million truck drivers for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

By Chris Cooper

Every day, commercial drivers deliver a world of items and supplies we need to feed, clothe and care for our families. Almost everything you see at your local supermarket or retail outlet at some point made it to the shelf because a professional truck driver delivered it.

It should go without saying that these men and women are the backbone of our Nation’s economy, and because of them, our lives are more comfortable and infinitely better because of their efforts. Yet, the role truckers play in our daily lives is often taken for granted.

This week, our industry seeks to change that and spotlight the sacrifice, dedication and professionalism of America’s 3.5 million professional truck drivers for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, September 11-17, 2022.

Whether you’re buying medicine for your family, grabbing dinner at your favorite local spot, or filling the tank for a weekend getaway, nearly all aspects of our lives are impacted by professional truck drivers.

The trucking industry hauls more than 10 billion tons of freight every year, which accounts for 70 percent of total U.S. tonnage. Further, 80 percent of U.S. communities rely exclusively on trucks to deliver food, clothing, fuel, medicines and all sort of other things. We also contribute jobs and stability for thousands of families. Here in Alabama, the trucking industry accounts for 1 in 14 jobs in the state employing more than 111,000 Alabamians.

Professional truck drivers are also committed to doing their jobs safely because they too are mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, and friends and neighbors. 

Imagine what our lives would be like if groceries, medicine, or gasoline weren’t readily available. Because of the many hours of hard work and sacrifices truckers and their families make every day, we will never have to find out. Like other brave frontline workers, like doctors, nurses, and law enforcement officers, it is important to acknowledge those who step up daily to help ensure our way of life remains intact.

This week, if you see a truck on the highway or a driver taking a break at a rest stop, take a moment to just say “thanks” – or at the very least recognize that driver is most likely in the middle of delivering the goods that keep America moving forward.

During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, we recognize the important role that truckers play in keeping our communities supplied and stocked with the critical goods that we sometimes take for granted.

Also, if you are interested in becoming a part of the transportation and logistics industry, there is a great job waiting for you with the 10,000 plus trucking companies that call Alabama home. Learn how you can start your path to an exciting and lucrative career in trucking at alabamatrucking.org/careers.

And to all those drivers out there making a difference every day, we are so thankful for you. Be safe out there and thanks so much for all you do!

Chris Cooper is CEO of Boyd Companies and current Chairman of the Board for the Alabama Trucking Association.