
At Fastport, we’re proud to share a major milestone in our mission to build a stronger workforce. We’ve officially placed 27,000 Registered Apprentices into career pathways across the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics industries.
Since beginning our apprenticeship efforts in January 2017, we’ve expanded from two trucking occupations to 35 registered occupations across sectors, including railroads, warehousing, and maritime. This growth wouldn’t be possible without the commitment of more than 202 employers and dozens of dedicated industry associations who have partnered with us to launch and sustain Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Programs.
We are thrilled to celebrate Fastport’s exceeding 27,000 Registered Apprentices and acknowledge the great work of all of our great Industry Association Partners,” said Dave Harrison, Executive Director of Workforce Development, Government Programs, and Military Employment Issues at Fastport. “This milestone reflects the hard work and commitment of our team and partners who believe in the transformative power of apprenticeships.
These apprenticeship programs offer more than just jobs; they provide structured, hands-on training, mentorship, and a pathway to lasting careers. Many apprentices come from non-traditional backgrounds or face barriers to employment, and apprenticeship helps bridge this gap.
Take Rebecca Winiavski, for example. After 12 years of service in the Army Reserves, including time spent driving petroleum tankers, she struggled to transition back into the civilian workforce.
“Despite her qualifications, Rebecca faced challenges in finding carriers that recognized her military driving experience,” shared Jen Cook, Driver Recruiting Program Manager at NFI Industries. “That changed when she discovered DOL Registered Apprenticeship programs for CDL drivers, which connected her with employers who understood and valued her skills.”
Jacob Szabo, a Registered Apprentice at Garner Trucking, shares a similar story:
“I chose an apprenticeship in trucking because it gave me the perfect opportunity to get a head start on a stable and fulfilling career,” Jacob said. “The industry is growing and vital to the economy, and the chance to train hands-on while getting paid was a clear path to success.”
Fastport’s progress is built on collaboration. We’re proud to work with major partners, including the American Trucking Associations, the Truckload Carriers Association, The Trucking Alliance, and the Next Generation Trucking Association. All have played key roles in helping us scale these career-building programs. As a U.S. Department of Labor Industry Intermediary and part of the Centers of Excellence, we continue to drive apprenticeship innovation that supports both workers and employers. Whether you’re an employer looking to strengthen your workforce or someone exploring a new career path, an apprenticeship can open doors to opportunity. We’re honored to be part of that journey 27,000 times and counting.
Learn more at www.nationalapprenticeship.org
Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.