KAMLOOPS, B.C. — One solution to the coming driver shortage? Get’em young.

In addition to this school that recently began training high school students to work in the trucking industry, the British Columbia Trucking Association (BCTA) announced today that it has partnered with School District 73 (Kamloops/Thompson) to offer a Professional Driver Training Program.

The program will be offered through NorKam Secondary School’s new Trades Centre of Excellence. While the program curriculum is still being designed, enrollment of Grade 10 students into the program is set for September 2014.

Referring to the expected 25,000 to 30,000 short fall of professional drivers in 2020 due to retirement, BCTA President and CEO Louise Yako said “the challenge was to find a way to engage youth and promote their interest and entry in the industry. We’re extremely excited to be taking part in this program.”

The BC Trucking Association will work with School District 73 to develop a training curriculum, one that would consist of introductory modules for students in Grades 10 and 11, followed by a full semester of driver training in Grade 12, including training “in-cab” using a driving simulator.

“Increased opportunities for all types of trades training are important for BC students,” said Greg Howard, district principal, Trades N’ Transitions. “By offering high-school level Professional Truck Driver Training at the Trades Centre of Excellence, we’re making training more accessible and affordable for those who want a career in trucking. We’re also meeting the needs of BC’s industry at the same time. It’s a terrific opportunity for both.”