Trucking Convention Will Showcase Industry's Latest Technology

NOVI (WWJ) -- Organizers of the Tech Expo 2016 are hoping to see a convoy of job seekers interested in the trucking industry.

More than 50 companies looking to hire in the trucking industry will be at the free convention at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi on Tuesday, where that industry's latest and greatest will be on display.

Dwayne Janke with Corrigan Oil in Brighton says today's rigs are as computerized as the cars on the showroom floor.

"The newest trucks do not take second place to any of the automotive technology," Janke said. "We have vehicles that have active radar, we have vehicles that now have technology that offer all the same safety systems that the latest cars do."

Janke says the industry always needs good truck drivers, but there are so many other job vacancies. He said companies need purchasers, dispatchers and other help, in addition to traditional mechanics.

"We need people that provide all the administrative support as well as the parts and service venders, mechanics and technicians," Janke said.

Janke says metro Detroit is a key trucking hub not only for cross-border business, but also for other cities in the midwest.

The interactive event will feature two driving simulators from the Michigan Center for Truck Safety and will display current Heavy Trucking technology, as well as a variety of demonstrations by companies such as Stemco, Meritor, and Royal Truck and Trailer.

The event runs from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.