Facing an ongoing shortage of snowplow drivers with Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs), the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is exploring a new solution: utilizing National Guard soldiers to bolster winter operations.
Each winter, ITD struggles to fill snowplow operator positions, leading to delays in snow removal, hazardous road conditions, and increased strain on existing workers. Competition with private industry for qualified drivers only exacerbates the challenge, particularly in rural and secondary road networks.
To address this issue, ITD proposes creating a reserve pool of National Guard soldiers trained in heavy equipment operations to support the department during peak winter conditions.
Many National Guard soldiers already possess skills equivalent to CDL holders through military training, making them well-suited for this role, according to ITD. By integrating these service members into winter operations, ITD said it aims to ensure plows remain in operation, enhance public safety and reduce workforce strain.
The initiative also offers long-term benefits, including helping soldiers transition military experience into CDL certification, opening civilian career opportunities. ITD has started discussions with the Idaho National Guard to clarify CDL requirements and increase awareness of this opportunity among service members.
Moving forward, ITD plans to implement specialized training, establish a reserve list for severe weather events, and collaborate with the DMV to connect Guard members with CDL certification programs.
Officials anticipate that leveraging this untapped resource will improve winter operations and enhance Idaho’s transportation infrastructure.
Source: Idaho Transportation Department
