Liberec Transport Company Overcomes Driver shortage with Innovative Solutions
The Liberec transport company (DPMLJ) has successfully tackled a critical issue that plagued its operations in recent years: a severe shortage of drivers. Today, the company employs approximately 240 full-time drivers, with an additional 50 to 60 working part-time. This marks a significant turnaround from the challenges faced just two years ago.
Martin Hettner, the transport director of DPMLJ, reflected on the progress: “We and the drivers were in big trouble about two years ago, and today we already have the drivers’ statuses supplemented.” This achievement is a testament to the company’s strategic efforts to address the labor shortage.
A Changing Labor Market
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Michal Zděnek,Chairman of the Board of Directors at DPMLJ,attributes part of this success to the shifting dynamics of the labor market. “At a time when economic growth was, letS say, dynamic, nobody really wanted to join us. That time is over, and the economy is not doing well. And it will certainly not get better,” he explained. Zděnek highlighted the struggles of the automotive industry, a major employer in the region, as a factor driving job seekers toward more stable opportunities like those offered by DPMLJ.
Recent statistics from the Labor Office underscore this trend. In December, unemployment in the Liberec region rose by 0.3 percentage points to 4.5%, with a year-on-year increase of 0.6%. This economic uncertainty has made DPMLJ’s reputation as a reliable employer even more appealing.
Driving School: A Game-Changer
One of the company’s moast innovative solutions has been the establishment of a driving school to train new bus and tram drivers. The program has seen overwhelming interest, with courses filling up quickly. “Another course for tram and bus drivers is starting in mid-January. We are full,” Hettner stated.
The driving school not only equips participants with the necessary licenses but also familiarizes them with the routes of the public transport system. “This means that their training in operation is than much faster,” Hettner added. This dual approach has streamlined the onboarding process, ensuring that new drivers are ready to hit the road sooner.
Women in Transport: A Growing Trend
Another notable development is the increasing participation of women in the workforce.according to Hettner, women now make up roughly a quarter of bus and tram drivers in the Liberec public transport system. This shift reflects broader societal changes and the company’s commitment to inclusivity.
By the Numbers: DPMLJ at a Glance
| Metric | Details |
|—————————|——————————————|
| Full-Time Drivers | 240 |
| Part-Time Drivers | 50-60 |
| Routes Operated | Almost 50 |
| Buses in Fleet | Over 100 |
| Trams in Fleet | 60 |
| Annual Passengers | Around 38 million |
Looking Ahead
With its driver shortage resolved, DPMLJ is well-positioned to continue providing reliable public transportation to the Liberec region.The company’s innovative approach, combined with its reputation as a stable employer, ensures that it remains a cornerstone of the community.
For those interested in joining the team, the next driving course begins in mid-January. With high demand and a streamlined training process, now is the perfect time to explore a career with DPMLJ.
As the region navigates economic challenges, DPMLJ stands out as a beacon of stability and progress. Whether you’re a passenger or a potential employee, the future of public transport in Liberec looks brighter than ever.
How Liberec Transport Company Overcame Driver Shortages with Innovative Solutions: An Expert Interview
In recent years, the Liberec Transport Company (DPMLJ) faced a severe driver shortage that threatened its operations. Though, through innovative strategies and a shifting labor market, the company has successfully turned the tide, now employing 240 full-time drivers and an additional 50-60 part-time drivers. To delve deeper into this remarkable turnaround, we sat down with Dr. jan Novák, a transportation and labor market expert, to discuss the key factors behind DPMLJ’s success. Dr. Novák has over 15 years of experience in public transport systems and labor market dynamics, making him the perfect guest to unpack this story.
The Turning Point: Addressing the Driver Shortage
Senior Editor: Dr. Novák, DPMLJ was in a tough spot just two years ago. What do you think was the turning point that allowed them to overcome the driver shortage?
Dr. Jan Novák: The turning point was a combination of strategic foresight and external factors. DPMLJ recognized that they couldn’t rely solely on conventional recruitment methods. They took a proactive approach by establishing their own driving school, which not only trained new drivers but also integrated them into the company’s operations seamlessly. This was a game-changer because it addressed the root of the problem: the lack of qualified drivers in the region.
Senior Editor: Martin hettner, DPMLJ’s transport director, mentioned that the company was in “big trouble” two years ago. How critical was the situation, and what risks did it pose to public transport in Liberec?
Dr. Jan Novák: It was a very critical situation. A shortage of drivers directly impacts service reliability, which can lead to reduced public trust in the transport system. If left unaddressed, this could have resulted in a downward spiral—fewer passengers, reduced revenue, and further operational challenges. DPMLJ’s ability to reverse this trend is commendable and serves as a model for othre transport companies facing similar issues.
The Role of the Labor Market Shift
Senior Editor: michal Zděnek, Chairman of the Board at DPMLJ, attributed part of their success to changes in the labor market. Can you elaborate on how these shifts played a role?
Dr. Jan Novák: Absolutely. The labor market dynamics have shifted significantly. A few years ago, during a period of strong economic growth, many job seekers were drawn to industries like automotive manufacturing, which offered higher wages and perceived stability. however, as the economy slowed, notably in sectors like automotive, job security became a priority.DPMLJ, with its reputation as a stable employer, became an attractive option for those seeking reliable employment.
Senior Editor: The unemployment rate in Liberec rose to 4.5% in December. How does this economic uncertainty benefit companies like DPMLJ?
Dr. Jan Novák: Economic uncertainty often drives job seekers toward industries and employers that offer stability. DPMLJ’s ability to provide steady employment, coupled with its innovative training programs, made it a preferred choice for many. This is a clear example of how economic conditions can influence labor market trends and benefit sectors that are prepared to adapt.
Innovative Solutions: The Driving School
senior Editor: one of DPMLJ’s most innovative solutions was the establishment of a driving school. How does this approach differ from traditional recruitment methods?
Dr.Jan Novák: Traditional recruitment relies on finding candidates who already have the necessary qualifications. DPMLJ’s driving school flips this model by creating its own pipeline of qualified drivers. This not only addresses the immediate shortage but also ensures that new drivers are trained to the company’s specific standards. Additionally, the program familiarizes trainees with DPMLJ’s routes and operations, which significantly reduces the time needed for onboarding.
Senior Editor: The driving school has been incredibly popular, with courses filling up quickly. What does this tell us about the demand for such programs?
Dr. Jan Novák: It highlights a clear demand for accessible training opportunities, especially in regions where traditional employment options are shrinking. The success of DPMLJ’s driving school also underscores the importance of investing in workforce development. By providing these opportunities, DPMLJ is not only solving its own challenges but also contributing to the broader community by creating skilled jobs.
Women in Transport: A Growing Trend
Senior Editor: DPMLJ has seen a notable increase in the number of women joining its workforce, now making up about a quarter of bus and tram drivers. What does this trend signify?
Dr. Jan Novák: This is a very positive development. It reflects broader societal changes, where more women are entering traditionally male-dominated fields.DPMLJ’s commitment to inclusivity and its efforts to create a welcoming habitat have clearly paid off. This trend not only diversifies the workforce but also helps address the driver shortage by tapping into a previously underutilized talent pool.
Looking Ahead: The Future of DPMLJ
Senior Editor: With the driver shortage resolved,what do you see as the next steps for DPMLJ?
Dr. Jan Novák: DPMLJ is now in a strong position to focus on further improving its services and expanding its operations. The company’s innovative approach and reputation as a stable employer will continue to attract talent. Additionally, I believe they can serve as a case study for other transport companies facing similar challenges. The key will be to maintain this momentum and continue adapting to changing labor market conditions.
Senior editor: Thank you, Dr. Novák, for your insights. It’s clear that DPMLJ’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability in overcoming industry challenges.
Dr. Jan Novák: Thank you.It’s been a pleasure discussing this remarkable turnaround.
