Ever watched channel 5's popular and addictive program, 'Ice Road Truckers' and thought 'I could do that'. Well maybe you should give it a go. The program, for all those who are not familiar with it, is a documentary drama following the lives of a fearless group individuals who drive heavy goods across a frozen lake in Canada for a large amount of cash. It's a nail biting show as you know at any moment the ice could give way and the trucks could disappear into the icy water never to be seen again.
But after watching the show, if your an individual that thinks 'this is the job for me', how and where would you begin a new career as an ice road trucker. Well for starters you would need a heavy goods vehicle licence and a few years experience. This is not the kind of job you would get as a new recruit to the industry. In addition it would be beneficial if you could complete basic maintenance and repairs. You would be expected to try to fix your wagon should you break down in the middle of the frozen lake. Also having experience of driving on ice would be an advantage as it's obviously not the same as driving on tarmac.
You would also need to get a visa to work in Canada, there are working visa schemes in place that let individuals aged between 18 - 30 spend up to two years there. In addition, it may be possible to get permanent sponsorship for individuals with the right experience.
But why would you want to be an ice road trucker anyway? Well, money could be a good answer. With the chance to make between $30,000 and $80,000 over the winter, ice trucking suddenly becomes very interesting. But you should remember with the money comes danger. It's definitely not the kind of job you would do if you have a weak heart. Driving across a treacherous icy lake on sixteen wheels can no doubt be terrifying experience.
In order to gain experience and to get a chance at being a driver it may be easier to start out in another position within an ice trucking company with a view to eventually becoming a driver. They employ a variety of trades such as mechanics, technicians and site managers. So if you think you have the necessary skills, enjoy the element of danger and are possibly a little bit crazy, then maybe ice road trucking is for you. For everyone else, relax, sit back and just watch it on the tv.
