Freedom Haulers Program Expands Trucking Careers for Veterans
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has welcomed the launch of Freedom Haulers, a new federal initiative introduced by the Trump Administration to help military veterans transition into careers in the trucking industry. The program brings together multiple government agencies, employers, workforce organizations, and veteran advocates to expand employment pathways for former service members.
Commenting on the announcement, ATA President and CEO Chris Spear said the association has consistently supported programs that encourage veterans to pursue stable, well-paying careers in trucking. He noted that ATA was honored to participate in the Freedom Haulers launch event at the White House.
Spear emphasized that veterans have long been an essential part of the trucking workforce, bringing qualities such as leadership, discipline, adaptability, teamwork, and a mission-driven approach—traits that align closely with the demands of the industry. He said the Freedom Haulers initiative strengthens the connection between military service and trucking careers, making it easier for veterans to enter the profession.
He added that ATA and its nationwide network of member carriers remain committed to recruiting veterans and military spouses for a wide range of positions, including commercial drivers, technicians, safety specialists, and other operational roles. Many trucking companies already operate dedicated programs that help former service members apply their military experience to civilian careers, gain additional training, and pursue leadership opportunities.
Spear also highlighted the trucking industry's critical role in transporting the vast majority of the nation's freight, supporting manufacturers, retailers, healthcare providers, farms, and communities across the country. He said veterans who join the industry continue serving an important national mission by helping maintain a strong economy and reliable supply chains.
During the White House event, Nathan Meisgeier, President and Chief Legal Officer of Werner Enterprises, outlined the company's ongoing support for military families. He said Werner provides educational assistance, tuition support, and employee resource groups to help veterans and their spouses build successful careers. According to Meisgeier, nearly 15% of Werner's 14,000 employees have military connections—roughly three times the proportion of veterans represented in the broader U.S. workforce.
The Freedom Haulers program is designed to simplify veterans' transition into commercial trucking by expanding access to licensing and training opportunities. Under the initiative, eligible veterans will be able to obtain an expedited Commercial Driver's License (CDL) for up to 24 months after leaving active duty, doubling the previous 12-month eligibility period. Veterans who did not operate heavy-duty vehicles during their military service will also have access to CDL training. In addition, the program expands access to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Even Exchange program, enabling qualified veterans to convert their military driving credentials into a civilian CDL more easily.
Commenting on the announcement, ATA President and CEO Chris Spear said the association has consistently supported programs that encourage veterans to pursue stable, well-paying careers in trucking. He noted that ATA was honored to participate in the Freedom Haulers launch event at the White House.
Spear emphasized that veterans have long been an essential part of the trucking workforce, bringing qualities such as leadership, discipline, adaptability, teamwork, and a mission-driven approach—traits that align closely with the demands of the industry. He said the Freedom Haulers initiative strengthens the connection between military service and trucking careers, making it easier for veterans to enter the profession.
He added that ATA and its nationwide network of member carriers remain committed to recruiting veterans and military spouses for a wide range of positions, including commercial drivers, technicians, safety specialists, and other operational roles. Many trucking companies already operate dedicated programs that help former service members apply their military experience to civilian careers, gain additional training, and pursue leadership opportunities.
Spear also highlighted the trucking industry's critical role in transporting the vast majority of the nation's freight, supporting manufacturers, retailers, healthcare providers, farms, and communities across the country. He said veterans who join the industry continue serving an important national mission by helping maintain a strong economy and reliable supply chains.
During the White House event, Nathan Meisgeier, President and Chief Legal Officer of Werner Enterprises, outlined the company's ongoing support for military families. He said Werner provides educational assistance, tuition support, and employee resource groups to help veterans and their spouses build successful careers. According to Meisgeier, nearly 15% of Werner's 14,000 employees have military connections—roughly three times the proportion of veterans represented in the broader U.S. workforce.
The Freedom Haulers program is designed to simplify veterans' transition into commercial trucking by expanding access to licensing and training opportunities. Under the initiative, eligible veterans will be able to obtain an expedited Commercial Driver's License (CDL) for up to 24 months after leaving active duty, doubling the previous 12-month eligibility period. Veterans who did not operate heavy-duty vehicles during their military service will also have access to CDL training. In addition, the program expands access to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Even Exchange program, enabling qualified veterans to convert their military driving credentials into a civilian CDL more easily.
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