On this episode of On the Front Line: The Safety, Learning & Operations Podcast, Dr. Gina Anderson, speaks with Lindsey Trent, President and Co-Founder of Next Generation in Trucking Association, reveals why nearly 60% of Gen Z turns to TikTok and Instagram for career guidance, and how the industry must meet them there with authentic voices, not polished corporate messaging. Lindsey reveals why authenticity beats polish when reaching Gen Z, how giving employees a platform to share their stories creates loyalty, and why listening to young voices isn't just good PR—it's the key to solving the industry-wide talent crisis. She also shares NextGen's groundbreaking "What is Trucking?" social media campaign and the simple ways companies can get involved in their own communities.

If you're struggling to attract and retain younger talent, this conversation offers practical strategies for making an impact in your own backyard.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Why 60% of Gen Z explores careers on social media—and what trucking must do to show up there
2. How NextGen works state-by-state to build relationships that create CDL, supply chain, and diesel tech programs
3. The power of employee-generated content: Why real stories beat corporate messaging every time
4. How connecting young people to industry professionals reinvigorates current employees

Connect with Lindsey on LinkedIn, ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseytrent/⁠Want to learn more about Lindsey’s work?

Check out the Next Generation in Trucking Association website, ⁠https://nextgentrucking.org/⁠

Check out the Luma Brighter Learning website, ⁠https://lumabrighterlearning.com/⁠

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply, ⁠https://www.learningwithgina.com/otfl-guest/