The Shay Legacy Foundation will be launching an exciting new initiative in the Fall of 2024, as the organization continues in its efforts to expand the workforce in New York’s Trucking Industry. Beginning in September, students from public schools across the state will have the opportunity to get a hands-on look into the industry through a new program, “Inside Trucking”.
Inside Trucking will give students the opportunity to go on-site of some of the top fleets in the state, and learn about what a career in trucking could look like for them. They’ll get tours of the terminals, speak with drivers, technicians, and managers, get into the cab of a truck to see the view from the drivers seat, and get some driving experience with the Shay Legacy Foundation’s truck driving simulator.
In a trial run of this program last month, students from Alfred E. Smith High School in the Bronx had the opportunity to tour the Sprague Operating Resources Bronx terminal, and the students were blown away by their experience. The feedback from staff at the school was overwhelmingly positive, and several students have already contacted Sprague to inquire about jobs and internship opportunities.
“I am writing to thank everyone for making this trip possible for me and my students,” said Ejaz Hoosein, Automative Live Shop Teacher at Alfred E. Smith High School. “Every part of this experience was memorable. As everyone reiterated, these kids are the future! On my way back, I realized that every single one of my students was able to take something that really resonated with them, so thank you for creating that spark in them.”
It is our sincerest hope at the Shay Legacy Foundation that we can continue to create experiences like this all across the state, as we strive to drive students toward careers in the trucking industry. We believe there is a massive untapped potential for young people to begin a path toward driving, and all they need is a look inside to see what a great career path this could be for them.
If your organization would like to be involved, and have students on your terminal, please contact Steve Bobarakis (steve@nytrucks.org).
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