218Workplace Powering
Transportation & Logistics

218WP is a career development tool designed to support individuals pursuing opportunities in transportation and logistics. It helps uncover often overlooked pathways to employment and advancement in this dynamic sector. These pathways may include JET-supported internships, apprenticeships, and both short-term and long-term training programs—such as On-the-Job Training.


218WP serves as a resource for individuals at every stage of their career—from entry-level positions to retirement—promoting lifelong growth and skill development in transportation and logistics. Whether you’re interested in freight operations, supply chain management, commercial driving, or logistics coordination, 218WP connects you to the tools and programs that can help you succeed.

6,700+
Current Jobs
+450
New Jobs by 2032
$71K
Average Annual Wage

How do I get into transportation & logistics

Starting a career in logistics and transportation often begins with Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer accelerated CDL Class A training programs that can be completed in just weeks. Some trucking companies provide on-the-job CDL training at no cost, allowing you to earn your license while getting paid. Beyond driving, the logistics field offers careers in warehouse operations, supply chain management, dispatching, and freight coordination—many requiring only a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Entry-level positions in warehousing and distribution centers provide hands-on experience with inventory management, forklift operation (with certification), and logistics software systems. From there, you can advance to roles in logistics coordination, transportation management, or supply chain analysis. Short-term certificate programs in logistics and supply chain management are available at community colleges, typically taking less than a year to complete. The industry offers home daily, local, regional, and over-the-road opportunities, providing flexibility based on your lifestyle preferences. With the growth of e-commerce and global supply chains, logistics careers offer strong job security and advancement potential.

Show me the money

Cost of Education

On Job CDL often free
CDL Training: $3,000-$7,000
Forklift Certification: $150-$400
Logistics Certificate: $2,000-$6,000
Supply Chain Management: $8,000-$18,000
4 Year Degree: $40,000-$80,000

Average Starting wage

No Training After High School: $14/hour
Warehouse Associate: $16-$19/hour
Forklift Operator: $17-$21/hour
CDL Driver: $20-$25/hour
CDL Driver: $55,000-$70,000/year
Logistics Coordinator: $45,000-$55,000/year
4 Year Degree: $50,000-$65,000/year

Job Placement

CDL Training: Virtually Guaranteed Warehouse/Forklift: Excellent Logistics Certificate: Good 4 Year Degree: Good

Myth-Conceptions

Common misconceptions can discourage people from exploring rewarding careers. Let’s set the record straight about opportunities in this sector.

Myth: “Transportation jobs are just truck driving”

Truth:

The logistics and transportation sector includes supply chain managers, logistics coordinators, warehouse supervisors, freight brokers, dispatchers, route planners, inventory specialists, and transportation analysts. It’s a diverse field with roles at every skill level.
Myth: “You'll always be away from home”

Truth:

While some trucking jobs involve long hauls, many transportation and logistics careers offer regular schedules and local routes. Warehouse, distribution center, and logistics coordination roles typically have predictable hours and allow you to be home every night.
Myth: “Logistics jobs don't pay well"

Truth:

Transportation and logistics offer competitive wages with strong earning potential. Commercial drivers, especially those with specialized endorsements, can earn $50,000-$80,000+ annually. Logistics managers and supply chain professionals often earn six-figure salaries.
Myth: “The industry is unsafe”

Truth:

Safety is the top priority in transportation and logistics. Companies invest heavily in training, modern equipment, and safety technology. Private fleets report accident rates three times better than industry averages, and regulations ensure high safety standards.
Myth: “There's no career advancement in transportation”

Truth:

The sector offers clear pathways from entry-level to management. Drivers can become trainers, dispatchers, or fleet managers. Warehouse workers can advance to supervisors, operations managers, or supply chain specialists. The industry rewards experience and skill development.

Logistics & Transportation Careers

  • Commercial Truck Driver (CDL-A)
  • Delivery Driver
  • Forklift Operator
  • Warehouse Associate
  • Warehouse Supervisor
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Inventory Control Specialist
  • Shipping and Receiving Clerk
  • Freight Broker
  • Dispatcher
  • Transportation Manager
  • Route Planner
  • Materials Handler
  • Distribution Center Manager
  • Import/Export Specialist
  • Cargo Agent
  • Fleet Maintenance Technician
  • Heavy Equipment Operator
  • Yard Jockey / Spotter

EXAMPLE REGIONAL Logistics & TransportationEMPLOYERS

LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Arrowhead Transit

Hibbing

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

BNSF Railway

Superior

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Clure Public Marine Terminal

Duluth

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

CN Railway (Canadian National)

Proctor

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Duluth International Airport

Duluth

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Duluth Seaway Port Authority

Duluth

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Duluth Transit Authority

Duluth

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LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTATION

Halvor Lines

Superior

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