Jurisdictions in Canada have criteria to determine if an individual has developed the skills to operate a large commercial vehicle and over the years it has become more and more advanced with the addition of MELT. This tests to make sure someone can effectively drive these pieces of equipment and helps with having consistency across provincial borders. One thing it does not address is the difference between a person with MELT training and a person who is employment ready. That is where this group examines the gaps in between. Trucking HR Canada has brought together industry experts from carriers, insurance, associations, and others to discuss where these gaps exist and to review the current national occupational standards to see where there are areas to improve, upgrade or eliminate. 

The project is about halfway completed, and it has been well attended both virtually and in person. We are reviewing eight supportive, nine functional and eleven driving competencies that have been recognized as key components of an employment ready driver. The range of experience in our group of twenty-five has also allowed me to feel that I am learning as much as I am contributing. Discussions are engaging and our workflow is well guided by the Trucking HR team.

My hope is that the next half will be as productive as the first, and that the outcome of this venture will help mold the next generation of commercial drivers.