If you're between the ages of 18 and 20, are a veteran or reservist, and are looking for a job, the U.S Department of Transportation wants to help you out.
It's accepting applications for a pilot program aimed at building America's trucking workforce.
"When you're younger and you have more flexibility to be out over the road, you can make very good money." Treg Lewis, Operations Lead for Relco Systems in Lockport. "It's very difficult to find drivers and that's well documented in our industry."
Lewis said they have a number of employees who are veterans, and that this program is getting their attention.
Here's how the program would work: 70 trucking companies will need to apply though the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Website.
The administration is looking to hire 200 people to be a part of the three-year program. Those who qualify will have to apply through participating trucking companies.
"I think that solving the issue of finding employment for veterans while also solving the issue of the driver shortage is smart. And it kills two birds with one stone," said Lewis.
The Veterans One-stop Center of WNY helps veterans transition from military to civilian life.
The center's Marketing and Development Manager, Jillian Johnson, said their most sought after service is helping find jobs.
She said this program is a great opportunity for veterans.
"Sixty-nine percent of veterans struggle with finding jobs and translating their skills from military to civilian life," she said. "I love hearing about, and we love hearing about opportunities like this for veterans."
