CVTA Executive Director Andrew Poliakoff Highlights Veterans, Safety and Opportunity on Newsmax
- CVTA Staff
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
CVTA Executive Director Andrew Poliakoff joined Newsmax2’s First Edition to discuss the Trump Administration’s Freedom Haulers initiative and the opportunity to connect more military veterans with careers in trucking.
Andrew attended Thursday’s White House kickoff, where federal leaders announced new steps to streamline the transition from military service to commercial driving. Seven additional states are joining FMCSA’s Even Exchange Program, bringing total participation to 34 states, while the application window for eligible veterans will expand from one year after leaving service to two years.
During the interview, Andrew highlighted the longstanding role CVTA member schools play in preparing veterans and other entry-level drivers for safe, successful careers. CVTA’s more than 100 school members operate at over 400 locations and collectively train approximately 100,000 entry-level drivers each year, including thousands of veterans.
“Trucking is such an honorable American service profession,” Andrew said, noting that the discipline, perseverance, dedication and commitment to service developed in the military translate naturally to professional driving.
The conversation also addressed the Administration’s efforts to strengthen commercial driver licensing, improve roadway safety and remove bad actors from the industry. Andrew emphasized that stronger enforcement can protect the traveling public while allowing reputable training providers to stand out.
“When you remove those bad-actor training organizations, you clear space you clear space for these good and great, outstanding schools,” he explained.
That distinction is especially important as the industry works to welcome more veterans. Expanding opportunity should not mean lowering standards. It should mean recognizing relevant military experience, removing unnecessary barriers and connecting qualified veterans with reputable training and meaningful careers.
CVTA will continue working with federal and state partners to advance Freedom Haulers, strengthen oversight of CDL training and licensing, and ensure quality schools remain at the center of preparing America’s next generation of professional drivers.
