**Manzanillo, Col.** – With the aim of contributing to the training of drivers, addressing the shortage of talent, and strengthening freight transport in the port of Manzanillo, Grupo GET delivered a Shacman 3000 unit on loan to the Center for Industrial Work Training (CECATI) 34, an action supported by the National Chamber of Freight Transport (Canacar).
The unit will help an average of 10 drivers per month to be professionalized, enabling them to perform their work better, and at the same time, it will help CECATI meet the standards required to be considered an Authorized SICT Center.
“This allows us to move forward and train competent drivers, equipped with new technologies, who are aware of regulations and the significant responsibility of transporting cargo and being responsible for safety and lives on the road,” explained Gladys Patricia Jiménez, director of CECATI 34.
Meanwhile, Abelardo Ruiz, general director of GET Shacman, emphasized that as a company, they are sensitive to the issues of transportation and the reality of moving goods in Mexico, as more than 75% is transported by road.
“In this sense, we are co-responsible and must provide the necessary tools for transporters to carry out their work. The delivery of the unit aims to help reduce the shortage of drivers in the near future,” he stated.
He warned that the sector is transforming, driven by the country’s increased commercial dynamism and the relocation of companies within the territory. Therefore, it is essential to address the lack of drivers and continue working so that the port of Manzanillo can continue its development and growth.
In his turn, José Denogean, Operational Director of Utility Trailers Mexico, emphasized that drivers also need training to know how to handle the goods on a semi-trailer. “The most important thing to strengthen the sector is communication and integration between the government, transporters, Canacar, brands, and distributors,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Juanita Velasco, Vice President of the Western Region of Canacar, highlighted that Mexico is experiencing a shortage of between 56,000 and 60,000 drivers. This issue has caused almost all freight transport companies to have vehicles out of service due to a lack of drivers.
Velasco detailed that urgent collaboration between authorities, the private sector, and manufacturing companies is needed, as this issue must be addressed from various fronts. She added that formal training for drivers has become unavoidable due to the various controls by authorities, security issues, and certifications that have eliminated the traditional method of driver training.
“Today we are working to train drivers more professionally, instilling good practices in them. In this regard, the Chamber has been promoting driver training in the country for several years,” said the businesswoman.
