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As more companies close their doors and many more scale back their work force, we as Americans are facing the most challenging times in our lives. We can't help but be concerned about our own well being, not to mention the worry we have on how we will provide for our family.

Trucking, which was once an occupation where one could get into to make some quick honest cash, has now seen an horrific downturn because of the economy. Just a few short years ago, there was a big driver shortage. I can remember during my time in recruiting, manning my booth at the Mid-America Trucking Show, and needing to hire any driver that met our qualifications.

Unfortunately, times have changed. We are now in a time where some trucking companies are not hiring as many drivers or worse, not hiring drivers at all and struggling just to keep their drivers busy.

During the times of the "driver shortage," owner-operators were worth their weight in gold! Trucking companies looked to hire owner-operators to cut down on their operating cost. Moving the timeline a few years forward to 2009, owner-operators who leased to companies that have company trucks are now being told that their services are no longer needed due to the fact that they need to keep the company trucks busy.

Some owner-operators are looking to sell their truck and try their hand at another occupation. Actually, that's not a bad idea! Truck drivers are some of the most intelligent and diverse people on earth. We have everything from singers, musicians, and carpenters to medical personnel driving up and down our nation's highways. In fact, anything you need to know about, chances are a driver can help you out with an answer.

Although, we know that our economy will eventually bounce back and be stronger than ever. We will also know that once again we'll see a deep driver shortage. If you are one of the owner-operators thinking about "changing gears" to another occupation, take advantage of the opportunity of doing something that you have always wanted to do.

You can also look at a pretty much recession proof occupation like nursing. There is still a nursing shortage, people will always need medical care. Another occupation to look at is education. Although, school districts in some cities are laying off, kids will always need to be educated and teaching is still a "safe" bet if you're looking to make a career change.

As we cruise further into 2009, we can only pray that our economy will get better soon. Keep the faith and continue to hold your chin up because one day we will be looking back on this trying time in US history. Until next time, please be safe!