Transportation, Distribution & Logistics:
Skills & Job Outlook for this Career Cluster
On The Job:
- This industry is guided by safety rules and regulations that often include strict time schedules, weight safety checks and verifications to ensure that instruments and mechanical systems are functioning properly.
- Most transportation workers are on duty irregular hours, including nights, weekends and holidays. Some workers spend several nights away from home. Delivery drivers might begin work late at night or early in the morning. Bus drivers are busiest before and after school and during special events.
- Some mechanical occupations, like line installers, work outside in a variety of weather conditions. Most mechanics work indoors and wear safety equipment, like hearing protection for loud environments. Some work can be hazardous.
- In addition to knowing how to operate their machinery, transportation workers are sometimes responsible for inspecting or maintaining the equipment.
- Some train for transportation positions while serving in the military. An apprenticeship is required for some positions.
What Skills Do You Need?
- Computer skills to keep up to date with advancements in technology.
- Customer-service skills to deal with people and be successful if self-employed.
- Decisiveness to choose the correct movements in response to signals.
- Dependability to keep on schedule and be responsible for the safety of others.
- Manual dexterity to manipulate equipment controls.
- Physical stamina to lift and carry items for transport or to be able to sit for long periods.
- Selective attention to stay alert despite potential distractions.
Job Outlook: GOOD
Transportation and distribution have always been tied to the economy. When consumer demand increases the need for the delivery of goods, employment increases. However, people always need transportation — whether by rail, road, air or sea.
The cost of fuel is also a heavy influence as rising prices prompt people to make changes in their commuting and leisure travel plans.
Occupations like bus and truck drivers will continue to create significant openings each year, thanks to turnovers and retirements.
In Minnesota, employment for mechanics and repair workers is expected to grow faster than average. As the number of cars on the road continues to rise, so does the need for people to maintain or repair them. And automotive technology is rapidly increasing in sophistication.
Experts strongly recommend that job seekers in this industry complete formal training to remain competitive.
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