Omaha, Nebraska — Werner Enterprises has officially secured the 2025 VETS Indexes 5 Star Employer Award, marking the second consecutive year the carrier has earned this specific industry recognition. This designation highlights the company's ongoing efforts to integrate military veterans into the logistics workforce through specialized internal programs and recruitment pipelines.

The transportation sector frequently struggles with high turnover, making veteran recruitment a strategic priority for major fleets. Werner reports that approximately 20% of its current workforce consists of veterans, a figure that far exceeds the national average for private industry. By maintaining these programs, the carrier aims to streamline the transition for service members moving from active duty into civilian roles, providing a structured environment for those pursuing a career behind the wheel or in corporate logistics operations.

Derek Leathers, chairman and CEO of Werner, emphasized that the company views veteran employment as a core pillar of its operational mission. The organization utilizes several specific frameworks to facilitate this, including the Military Skills Test Waiver Program, which simplifies the licensing process for those with prior experience operating heavy equipment. These initiatives are designed to bridge the gap between military service and the requirements set by FMCSA regulations, ensuring that veterans can leverage their existing training to jumpstart their professional driving careers.

What This Means for Drivers

For a CDL-A driver transitioning out of the armed forces, these programs provide a defined path into the civilian sector that often bypasses the typical entry-level hurdles. Many veterans find that the structure and discipline required in military life translate well to the rigors of an OTR truck driver position. Werner’s commitment suggests that fleets are increasingly willing to invest in specialized training for military-connected applicants, which is a positive trend for anyone seeking stability in a volatile freight market.

Industry Reaction

The logistics industry has spent recent years aggressively courting veteran talent as a solution to the persistent driver shortage. While many trucking companies are hiring, few have managed to secure the 5 Star designation from VETS Indexes, which evaluates companies based on their veteran hiring, retention, and professional development programs. This recognition serves as a benchmark for other carriers looking to improve their own veteran-friendly policies and demonstrates that dedicated support systems are essential for long-term retention in the current hiring climate.

Key Points

• Werner is currently the only transportation and logistics company to hold the 5 Star VETS Indexes designation for 2025.
• Approximately one-fifth of the company's total headcount is comprised of veterans.
• The company utilizes the SkillBridge and Career Skills programs to recruit active-duty service members before their separation date.
• Internal support systems include the 'WEVets' resource group and specific deployment support initiatives for employees and their families.

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