Janice R. Andrews
Walmart celebrates the graduation of its largest class to date from the Associate-to-Driver program, marking a significant milestone for professional advancement. With the help of the program, which was created to provide fresh chances for growth, 72 colleagues were able to make the switch to Walmart drivers.
This graduation stands out in particular because of how inclusive it is. The pool of possible applicants was greatly increased when colleagues from Sam’s Clubs, Walmart stores, and Sam’s Club Supply Chain were allowed to compete for the first time. This expansion of eligibility, which was previously restricted to Walmart Supply Chain and Transportation colleagues, demonstrates Walmart’s dedication to encouraging development and mobility among its workforce.
Walmart is in a good position to grow the program’s reach going forward. To ensure accessibility across the country, associates residing within 250 miles of a Transportation Office will have the opportunity to join by the start of the following year.
191 associates have completed the Associate-to-Driver program since it began in December 2021, demonstrating the program’s remarkable accomplishments. Graduates who join Walmart’s prestigious Private Fleet and obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) have the potential to make up to $110,000 in their first year of employment as drivers.
Ashley Milacek, a committed store associate from Gainesville, Texas, is one of the success stories. She took advantage of the chance to move into a new position. Her tenacity and willingness to take on new challenges exemplify the program’s spirit and highlight Walmart’s dedication to offering opportunities for professional development.
The inspirational story of Bentonville, Arkansas’s Ronny Suggs is another. Ronny persevered through hardships, including homelessness, and eventually found his way to Walmart’s Supply Chain and the Associate-to-Driver program. He views the chance as transformative, demonstrating the program’s capacity to effectuate positive life changes.
Walmart’s commitment to providing professional growth opportunities highlights its reputation as a beacon of opportunity. Walmart continues to fulfill its promise to offer Every Day Low Prices while fulfilling its objective to create meaningful employment and high-quality jobs. It does this by using its Private Fleet as a competitive advantage.
