PEI Trucking Sector Council helps provide a pathway to a career in trucking

by Stella Shepard

The PEI Trucking Sector Council is an industry-driven, not-for-profit organization committed to addressing human resources issues and opportunities in the trucking industry on PEI.

The organization provides a vehicle for effective industry participation in identifying and addressing issues related to workforce attraction and retention, career awareness, skills upgrading and training.

“On PEI, about 4,000 employees work in the trucking industry, and about 2,000 are Truck Drivers,” says Brian Oulton, Executive Director, PEI Trucking Sector Council.

“We have a population of Truck Drivers who are reaching the age of retirement, and we have companies that want to expand and grow. There is certainly so much opportunity.”

Current positions include the following:

Truck and Transport Mechanics, Island-wide
Truck Drivers, Island wide
Office Staff

“The most challenging positions to fill are Truck Drivers and Mechanics, although finding skilled people for any role is getting tough these days,” says Brian.

“Trucking is the backbone to the PEI economy. Without it, all other sectors would grind to a halt. Everything we use as consumers comes by truck, from medical supplies to groceries, the paint on the wall to the shoes on our feet.

“It’s all here because of trucks. We employ thousands of people in some of the best paid positions on the Island.”

How to apply

“People can apply directly to industry employers or they can apply with us at the Sector Council,” says Brian. “We forward resumés along regularly to industry employers, and we can help applicants ensure their resumés and accompanying documentation are strong.

“We also work with applicants to help find them opportunities they may not be aware of.”