MANITOBA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION

The MTA Trucking Sector Council has been moving full speed ahead – and there’s a lot to celebrate.

In 2023, the Manitoba Trucking Association (MTA) became the newest member of the Manitoba Sector Council Program, representing the Transportation and Distribution sector. The Sector Council Program, funded by the Government of Canada and the Manitoba Government, supports key industries across Manitoba by helping organizations develop and deliver targeted workforce training, with a focus on ensuring long-term business growth and prosperity.

Through the MTA Human Resources Council, the trucking sector council is focused on identifying immediate, short-term, and long-term skills and labour gaps within the industry. By working with other sector councils and organizations, the Council is undertaking important outreach efforts – informing youth, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, and individuals with disabilities about careers in trucking. A key part of the Council’s mission is to bridge the gap between the skills of recent graduates and industry needs, while also ensuring the current workforce is equipped to meet evolving demands.

With their feet firmly under them, the MTA Trucking Sector Council has been making significant strides over the past six months, offering new resources and training opportunities designed to strengthen Manitoba’s trucking industry.

Training continues to be a top priority. Through the Sector Council Program, several free training opportunities are available throughout the year, including Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG), Hours of Service, Cargo Securement,
and In-Cab Coaching. Make sure to check the MTA website for future free training opportunities.

The Sector Council has also launched several new resources and training initiatives. Recent highlights include the release of a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Self-Assessment Toolkit and new courses such as Essential Sales and Business Development Skills in Trucking, Recruitment and Retention Essentials, and Canada Labour Code Part III. A comprehensive compilation of Canada Labour Code resources has also been made available to assist companies
in maintaining compliance.

In addition to training, the Council is focusing on innovation. A recent series of webinars on how artificial intelligence can be integrated into human resources practices was well received by industry participants. Sessions included AI in Collaboration: Unlocking ChatGPT’s Potential for HR, AI in Governance: Policies, Best Practices, and IP Rights Explained, and AI in Action: Practical Tools and Strategies for HR Transformation. Other recent webinars included Fact vs Fiction: Myth-busting the Latest Changes to Immigration, Canada Labour Code, and How to Recruit and Retain the Next Generation.   

Another important achievement has been the successful pilot of an English language training program, delivered in partnership with EESDC and Big Freight Systems Inc. Following the pilot’s success, Big Freight has incorporated the program permanently, helping to ensure a more inclusive and skilled workforce.

One of the priorities of the Sector Council is outreach efforts. In just the current academic year, sector council staff have ensured the trucking industry opportunities are promoted at career fairs, job matching events, “speed dating”, presentations, panel discussions, and more. Several of these events have resulted in job matches, and all of these events have elevated the profile of the trucking industry as a viable career opportunity for young people.

Of course, one of the keystone events of the MTA Trucking Sector Council Program is the Manitoba Trucking and Career Expo at Red River Exhibition Park. This event showcases opportunities within the trucking industry, provides networking avenues, and highlights the essential role trucking plays in Manitoba’s economy. It features a career fair, trade show, show and shine, and the Professional Truck Driving Championship. This event ensures that those interested in exploring opportunities in the industry have the chance to gain a well-rounded understanding of trucking.

The MTA Trucking Sector Council remains committed to building a strong, skilled workforce that supports the continued growth and success of Manitoba’s trucking industry. Industry members are encouraged to visit the Human Resources section of the MTA website to access new resources, register for training sessions, and stay informed about upcoming initiatives.