by Emily Luxen
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- The U.S. Department of Labor reports truck driving jobs are plentiful nationwide, but many are still reluctant to take advantage of the opportunities.
Employment for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 21 percent from now until 2020, and that's faster than the average for all occupations.
Some truck drivers admit, while they love their jobs, it isn't a job for everyone.
"It's just in my blood," said Kenneth Johnson, who has been driving trucks for 4 years, "It's something I love to do. I love to travel, see a lot of things, meet a lot of people."
However, Johnson said the jobs also come with a price. He typically works 11 hour days, and is away from his family. Initially, it can cost thousands of dollars to complete the necessary training.
"They teach you a lot in school," said Johnson, "For safety purposes, you need to do it."
The Department of Labor says the median annual wage of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is $37,770, but it may cost up to $6,000 to complete the required training. The amount required varies by company.
For, Johnson, the benefits of the job still outweigh the negatives.
"I believe you see a lot of things you have only see on TV. When you see it with your own eyes, it is exciting."
