BENTONVILLE, Ark.—Walmart has expanded its CDL training pilot program to include employees working in stores, distribution centers, fulfillment centers and transportation offices in participating locations.

Last year, Walmart launched the 12-week program, allowing its supply chain associates in the Dallas, Texas, and Dover, Delaware, areas to earn their CDL and become long-haul truck drivers for Walmart.

“Walmart associates have long been interested in stepping into these driver roles themselves but felt limited by the time and expense of the training required,” said Fernando Cortes, senior vice president, transportation, in a website post. “That’s why the launch of our Fleet Development program last year was such a game changer.”

Through the expanded pilot, associates in stores, distribution centers, fulfillment centers and transportation offices within a 50-mile radius of a participating transportation office will be eligible to apply to the program.

After they complete the 12-week training course and earn their CDLs, they are given a job as a truck driver for Walmart. Drivers can make up to $110,000 in their first year with the company, and those that have been with Walmart longer can earn more based on factors like tenure and location.

“The program is a win for associates, who can take the next step in their career journey without leaving the company. It’s a win for Walmart, as we can continue to invest in our talented team of associates. And it is a win for customers and members, as our fleet continues to deliver every day,” said Cortes.

Walmart employs more than 13,000 drivers in its private transportation fleet.

A recent survey found that parking their big rigs is the No. 1 issue plaguing truck drivers, as there is one semi-truck parking spot for every 11 truck drivers and 313,000 total truck parking spots in the U.S. Here’s how truck stops are working to expand their locations and/or add technologies and amenities to meet drivers’ needs.

Last year, the Biden Administration introduced a Trucking Action Plan. The plan aims to improve trucker retention and recruit more truck drivers and in return, help the national supply chain for the long-term.

NACS Magazine shared how carriers are casting a wider net for applicants to fill truck driving jobs in “Women on the Road” in the October 2021 issue.