Forward saves on driver training costs, improves compliance with virtual orientation

Forward Air Corp. wanted new drivers to have a seamless orientation experience to its Pickup and Delivery (PUD), Forward Final Mile (FFM) and Forward Solutions (pool distribution) business segments.

To accomplish this, management saw a need to replace the learning management system (LMS) and video-based training content the company had been using with a modern solution.

Greenville, Tenn.-based Forward (CCJ Top 250, No. 34) is an asset-light freight and logistics business that provides intermodal, expedited regional, inter-regional and national less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload services (TLS) with a fleet of nearly 3,000 employee and contractor drivers.

The company has a nationwide network of more than 125 terminals with locations near major airports, and a network of pool distribution terminals and final-mile services.

In the spring of 2019, Forward completed a pilot test of the Luma eNugget LMS platform from Luma Brighter Learning. Drivers who went through the new orientation program had a “better learning experience,” said Pat Jones, director of fleet safety. The program was also more efficient for drivers and fleet administrators.

The Luma eNugget LMS platform comes with a collection of more than 400 individual learning modules, called Luma eNuggets, that cover relevant safety, compliance and orientation topics using multi-media designed for the unique learning preferences and learning culture of truck drivers.

During the rollout, Forward asked Luma to develop additional program-specific training content focused on city driving and final-mile deliveries to homes and offices, among other topics.