The Veterans Administration has granted accreditation to U.S. Xpress as part of the Post 9/11 GI Bill Apprenticeship Program that allows eligible veterans to receive educational benefits from the VA while training as a driver or technician for the company.

Veterans who enter the program can receive their tax-free educational benefits as an income supplement on top of their U.S. Xpress salary. These benefits can be upwards of $25,700, depending on years of service.

Typically a truck driver coming to U.S. Xpress can earn between $50,000 and $70,000 depending on which driving opportunity he or she qualifies for, according to the company. U.S. Xpress said that with the VA benefits, veterans in the training program can now earn up to $82,000 in their first year with the company.

“At U.S. Xpress, we value the strong work ethic and leadership experience veterans can bring to our company,” said Eric Fuller, president and chief operating officer of U.S. Xpress. “Beyond that, veterans have a sense of productivity, accountability and a ‘can-do’ attitude that will serve them well in the trucking industry, which is why we actively look to hire veterans in every aspect of our company.”

Upon enrolling in the Post 9/11 GI Bill Apprenticeship Program, veterans are allowed to draw their GI Bill benefits for up to 24 months, giving them additional compensation and financial stability as they transition from military to civilian life.

The amount each veteran is entitled to receive depends upon the length of service and service type (Active Duty, National Guard or Reserve). After completing the Apprenticeship Program, veterans will become a certified Heavy Duty Truck Driver or Diesel Technician for U.S. Xpress.

U.S. Xpress launched its Military Recruitment Initiative in July 2016 as part of the company’s commitment to providing veterans with opportunities to join the trucking industry.

“Our veterans have always played an essential role in keeping our country strong, and now, we want veterans to put their skills to work as a U.S. Xpress truck driver and serve our country in a new way – one that will help keep the transportation industry moving forward and our economy strong,” said Fuller. “I truly believe our new apprenticeship program will help make this possible by giving veterans added financial stability as they transition out of the military and into a new career path as a professional truck driver or diesel technician at U.S. Xpress.”