CABVI & TIA joins to make freight broker professional program

Cincinnati Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired (CABVI) announced its collaboration with The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) in implementing a new workforce development program aimed at accelerating freight brokers’ career paths.

“Logistics companies are often looking to reduce turnover and training costs, improve productivity and ramp up new employees who are unfamiliar with the logistics industry more quickly,” said Maurice Huey, VP of Vision Services at CABVI. “Our goal is to help individuals who are blind or visually impaired to advance their skill sets as they prepare to start a fast-paced, in-demand freight broker career.”

The course, TIA’s New Employee Orientation, will allow students to learn the fundamentals of supply chain and freight management, such as logistics, sales and customer retention skills that will specifically assist them in finding employment within the freight brokerage industry. Students will also learn professional and executive skill sets, such as communication and relationship management, that will provide a competitive advantage beginning on day one.

“These are good jobs in a growing, thriving, and exciting industry with a well-designed career path,” said TIA President and CEO Anne Reinke. “With hard work, relationship building and time management—there is often uncapped earning potential for individuals in this role. We are excited to be working with CABVI and establishing this amazing opportunity for all those interested.”

This partnership is in direct alignment with CABVI’s mission: “Empowering people who are blind or visually impaired with opportunities to seek independence.” In 2022, CABVI acquired Florida-based Route Transportation and Logistics, as a way of offering new types of job opportunities for people with vision loss. Route’s remote-first approach eliminates transportation concerns, a common work barrier to individuals with vision loss.

As CABVI’s CEO Teri Shirk explains, “This partnership with TIA will allow CABVI to train individuals with vision loss in transportation and logistics, even if they don’t have experience. The training will provide new opportunities for career advancement in knowledge-based jobs. We hope that 50% of all new job postings can be filled by those who are blind or visually impaired.”

The course will be offered to individuals to allow them the opportunity to participate while transitioning into new careers. Students completing the program will have access to employment opportunities, sign-on bonuses, and post-course opportunities.