Tech Company Targets Trucker Shortage

Hindes says the company's research can also help improve driver safety.

A South Bend company is teaming with University of Notre Dame researchers to combat one of the biggest issues facing the trucking industry: the recruitment and retention of drivers. Stay Metrics Co-founder Tim Hindes says the company’s online platform allows carriers to better recognize drivers for performance and loyalty and use predictive data to determine what truckers like and dislike.

He says an aging driving force and high turnover will make the issue even more critical in the coming years.

During an interview on Inside INdiana Business Television, Hindes said the research can also help improve driver safety. He says the company is studying the impact of drivers having more home time, saying data seems to point to higher productivity. In a release from Stay Metrics, Hindes said, "We know at Stay Metrics that home time, or the lack thereof, is a predictor of driver turnover. What this new study shows is that now an argument can be made by fleet operators that home time has productivity and financial benefits as well."

Hindes believes the company is on the front end of what will be a growing trend in predictive data for carriers. Because the driver shortage is a national problem, he says Stay Metrics has also begun partnering with researchers from out-of-state institutions, including the University of Florida and the University of Minnesota.

Stay Metrics was founded in 2012. Hindes says, within five years, he expects the company’s work force to reach 150-200. He also believes the company will adapt its platform for other sectors, including manufacturing and health care.

The company launched in Innovation Park in South Bend. Hindes says hub was "absolutely fantastic from all levels" and contributed a lot to the business’ growth.