The trucking industry is bleeding talent, and ATS just opened a new pipeline. By joining forces with Semper Forward, a veteran‑focused recruiting firm, ATS will start feeding its driver roster with service‑men and women who already know discipline, logistics, and long‑haul life.
What happened
Last week ATS announced a partnership with Semper Forward, a national network that connects military job seekers with civilian employers. The deal gives ATS direct access to the 2.5 million active‑duty and veteran pool that Semper Forward serves. The firm will run recruitment drives at bases, transition centers, and online, funneling qualified candidates straight into ATS’s hiring funnel. The partnership also includes a mentorship program where veteran drivers mentor new hires, aiming to improve retention.
Why it matters for dispatchers/drivers
Veterans bring a unique skill set: route planning under pressure, maintenance discipline, and a safety‑first mindset honed in the armed forces. For dispatchers, that translates into fewer “no‑show” calls and tighter compliance with HOS rules. For drivers, working alongside fellow veterans can boost morale and reduce turnover—a chronic problem that has kept driver shortage rates above 12 % nationally (American Trucking Associations, 2025). Moreover, the military’s emphasis on technology adoption means veterans are likely to embrace ELDs, telematics, and upcoming EV platforms faster than the average driver.
My take
This is a win‑win that the industry has needed for years. If ATS can turn the veteran pipeline into a steady flow of reliable drivers, other carriers will have to follow suit or be left scrambling for talent. The partnership also shows that the old “civilian‑only” recruiting myth is dead – the future belongs to those who can blend military precision with trucking grit. – Ekjot Singh, Founder, EK Dispatch Academy
What you should do
- Dispatchers: flag veteran candidates in your ATS portal and prioritize them for routes that demand strict safety compliance.
- Drivers: consider mentoring programs; veterans appreciate guidance and it can earn you referral bonuses.
- Fleet owners: partner with veteran‑focused recruiters and allocate a budget for transition training – EK Dispatch Academy offers a **$1,200** veteran‑fast‑track curriculum that includes ELD mastery and compliance basics.