Empowering the Next Generation in Trucking | Dave Dein | Ep 19

In this episode of Miles and Mentors, Dave Dein shares his mission to transform the trucking industry by introducing high school students to careers in logistics. As the founder of one of the nation’s first high school trucking programs and co-founder of the Next Generation in Trucking Association, Dave discusses the importance of early exposure to trucking and how hands-on education is preparing young people for lifelong careers in the industry.

Dave’s journey into trucking began in 1988, but his passion for education led him to pivot into teaching. After years in the classroom, he realized the disconnect between traditional education and career pathways for students who weren’t interested in the typical college route. Drawing from his experience in trucking, he launched a high school CDL program that provides students with the technical skills, leadership training, and industry connections needed to enter the workforce at a young age.

The program goes beyond basic truck driving instruction by emphasizing professionalism, financial responsibility, and health and wellness. Students engage in hands-on learning with truck simulators, field trips, and mentorship from industry professionals. They graduate with the ability to earn their CDL permit and complete their behind-the-wheel training through partner schools, making them job-ready by the time they leave high school.

One of the biggest challenges facing the industry is the aging driver workforce. Dave explains how his program is helping address this by building a pipeline of young, well-trained drivers who enter the industry with a deep understanding of its operations. By partnering with trucking companies, the program also offers students entry-level jobs in warehousing, dispatch, and maintenance, allowing them to gain experience before moving into driving roles.

Dave also highlights the rapid expansion of high school trucking programs across the country, with 50 schools now adopting similar initiatives. Through his nonprofit, Next Generation in Trucking, he is working to replicate the model nationwide by providing schools with curriculum, funding guidance, and industry connections to launch successful programs.

For students, educators, or industry leaders looking to support the next generation of trucking professionals, Dave’s insights offer a blueprint for creating lasting change. His work is not just about filling job vacancies—it’s about empowering young people with career opportunities that provide stability, financial independence, and long-term growth.

If you’re starting a trucking business or growing your fleet and need expert guidance, reach out to us today—our industry expert partners can help you make the right decisions for long-term success.