At Lorac Academy, we believe that training people to work as commercial drivers is about opportunity. This is why we were honored to be featured recently in the Triad Business Journal on how North Carolina companies are turning to “second chance” hiring to help ease the labor shortage. This story mirrors our mission of helping to give people get a fresh start while filling critical needs within the trucking industry.
Fulfilling Critical Needs
The article talks about how those with past convictions often face barriers to employment, even when they have served their time and are ready to get back into the workforce. At this point, there is a growing realization that those who have served time are an underappreciated talent pool. As some businesses struggle with high turnover and unfilled positions, more are more are open to the idea of hiring those with a criminal record.
What resonated with us is that second-chance hiring isn’t just charitable, but it’s also a practical method. Many employers see gains in loyalty, reliability, and a sense of purpose among those who are eager to make a positive change. This article highlights how we train and work with drivers from a variety of backgrounds, including those with past criminal records.
Innovative Initiatives
Lorac Academy is dedicated to breaking down barriers to employment for judicially impacted individuals. We envision creating a transportation division within our school, offering a six-month Reentry Apprenticeship program. This initiative aims to provide employment opportunities directly to our graduates, further supporting their successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism rates.
We hope the conversation around second-chance hiring continues to grow. We know that the labor shortage is a challenge, but it offers a chance to build stronger teams by working with those who want to change their lives for the better. We encourage you to check out this article and contact us if you have any questions.