UPS Uses Games to Recruit New, Younger Drivers

UPS is using video game simulation as a testing platform for future drivers which can average as much as $74,000 annually. Some years back I once had the opportunity to join the company as a package handler, but the entry level test I took (and failed) reminded me of taking the SAT's in school; time constraints, a bunch of people (in this case you don't know), very quiet and somewhat awkward. I can honestly say that I don't know exactly what the previous driving test consisted of, but I'm assuming it was comparable to the test I took.

Hoping to increase a 30% driving test failure rate, the worlds largest delivery service will delve into video game technology and peripherals with the intentions of gaining younger, more technology driven individuals. Currently the Atlanta-based UPS employs over 99,000 drivers in the U.S. ,but with a large amount of baby-boomers retiring, they are now seeking to hire over 25,000 drivers over the next 5 years.

According to the WALL STREET JOURNAL, 20-somethings, the bulk of UPS driver recruits respond best to high-tech instruction with a great ability to hone skills. The simulation-oriented testing will put recruits behind the wheel of one of those big brown trucks; navigating through a myriad obstacles in an artificial village where they must make 5 deliveries in 19 minutes.

There is also a contraption that you must harness yourself into above a greased floor while wearing slip resistant shoes that is suppose to simulate walking on ice.

I don't know about you, but even if I didn't pass this test, it sound like a good time either way. So for all you 20-somethings out there with sore wrists and thumbs- marinating away on your back-side in front of your TV's, there's an industry giant seeking your technical gaming expertise for possible employment earning a high 5 figure income!

Good luck & Game On..!