How Shepherd Distribution's Driver Academy Is Solving the Problem of Driver Shortages

As the driver CPC deadline approached in September 2014, the management team at Shepherd Distribution Services decided not to rest on its laurels…
The past couple of years have seen several news articles focused on the major impact the driver CPC will have on the road haulage industry. The sector is projected to lose over 20,000 drivers as a result of the new legislation and shortages are being forecast long after the September 2014 deadline - with driver agencies struggling to cover the gaps.

So Shepherds set out to find a solution…

Initially, Shepherds explored all the usual avenues for identifying new recruits. However, the company’s directors and senior management team wanted to do more. We were looking for a longer lasting solution that that would further enhance the company’s already well respected training model. After months of internal discussions, soul searching and head scratching, the Shepherds Driver Academy was born.

What is Shepherds Driver Academy?

Shepherds Driver Academy is an in-house function specially created to offer new drivers a chance to become part of the highly regarded Shepherds family of skilled and professional drivers. The academy is supported with a highly experienced training Manager and underpinned with experienced driver assessors and driver mentors. As well as practical on-the-job training, the academy helps new drivers to learn other important skills, enabling them to thrive and put their talents to the test in the real world.

How did Shepherds find the talent pool?

Shepherds have linked up with a number of external bodies in order to attract a flow of budding drivers. The external bodies were impressed with the company’s proactive approach to Health & Safety (Shepherds are a FORS Silver accredited company) and training & development, as well as its proactive approach on corporate social responsibilities.

How is the Driver Academy performing?

Since the academy’s launch three months ago, Shepherds has seen a staggering response. Already 7 drivers have successfully graduated through the academy and gained full time employment with Shepherds. Overall, the Drivers Academy has been an incredibly positive development for Shepherds, showing how a business can create a pipeline of skilled, professional workers through a creative, in-house training initiative.