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Abstract The increasing adoption of automation will likely replace the tasks performed in many jobs, resulting in new challenges for workers. Yet, little is known regarding how workers perceive automation, including how it may influence their job attitudes and turnover intentions. Automated vehicles (AVs) are one example of new technology poised to alter the job of truck driving, which is overwhelmingly populated by older workers. In this study, we examined truck drivers’, supervisors’, and managers’ attitudes and concerns about AV adoption and its effects on driving jobs to help the transportation industry prepare for automation with minimal workforce disruption. We drew from theorizing on self-interest in economics and lifespan coping theories to contextualize workers’ reactions to automation. We conducted focus groups and interviews with truck drivers (N=18), supervisors of drivers (N=8), and upper-level managers of trucking companies (N=25). Two themes emerged from the thematic analysis: the unknown, and proficiency. AVs may be viewed as threatening by drivers, causing anxiety due to widespread uncertainty and the fear of job loss and loss of control. At the same time, there will be a greater need for drivers to be adaptable for the era of AVs. AVs are also likely to result in other changes to the role of driving, which may have implications for driver recruitment and selection. We interpret our findings together with lifespan theories of control and coping and provide recommendations for organizations to effectively prepare for automation in the trucking industry. 

COVID-19 resulted in health and logistical challenges for many sectors of the American economy, including the trucking industry. This study examined how the pandemic impacted the trucking industry, focused on the pandemic’s impacts on company operations, health, and stress of trucking industry employees. Data were collected from three sources: surveys, focus groups, and social media posts. Individuals at multiple organizational levels of trucking companies (i.e., supervisors, upper-level management, and drivers) completed an online survey and participated in online focus groups. Data from focus groups were coded using a thematic analysis approach. Publicly available social media posts from Twitter were analyzed using a sentiment analysis framework to assess changes in public sentiment about the trucking industry pre- and during-COVID-19. Two themes emerged from the focus groups: (1) trucking company business strategies and adaptations and (2) truck driver experiences and workplace safety. Participants reported supply chain disruptions and new consumer buying trends as having larger industry-wide impacts. Company adaptability emerged due to freight variability, leading organizations to pivot business models and create solutions to reduce operational costs. Companies responded to COVID-19 by accommodating employees’ concerns and implementing safety measures. Truck drivers noted an increase in positive public perception of truck drivers, but job quality factors worsened due to closed amenities and decreased social interaction. Social media sentiment analysis also illustrated an increase in positive public sentiment towards the trucking industry during COVID-19. The pandemic resulted in multi-level economic, health, and social impacts on the trucking industry, which included economic impacts on companies and economic, social and health impacts on employees within the industry levels. Further research can expand on this study to provide an understanding of the long-term impacts of the pandemic on the trucking industry companies within the industry and segments of the trucking industry workforce.