The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has issued a call for motor carriers to participate in a new survey examining hiring practices for truck drivers with prior criminal convictions.

ATRI is also currently seeking fleet input for a separate study on the technician shortage today.

As the trucking industry tackles truck driver workforce challenges, ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee (RAC) prioritized this study to explore underrepresented hiring pathways, including individuals with criminal histories. 

Identifying New Pathways to Employment

ATRI said this survey will seek to examine motor carrier hiring practices, decision-making factors, and workforce reintegration strategies, with optional follow-up research interviews for further insights.

All responses will remain strictly confidential.

“As the industry continues to seek out solutions to its various workforce challenges, there is a new emphasis on the possibilities of hiring truck drivers with criminal histories,” said Robyn Smith, director of driver relations for May Trucking Company. “However, there is limited data on how to successfully integrate these individuals into motor carrier operations,” “ATRI’s research will provide value insight to help the industry balance safety, compliance, and workforce development.”

Motor carriers are encouraged to participate in the survey by clicking here.