How to Start an NEMT Business in Tennessee: A "Bambi Knows Best" State-by-State Series

Part 6: Build and Train Your Dream NEMT Team in Tennessee

Crafting a standout NEMT team in Tennessee means recruiting cool and kind people who understand the state’s diverse terrain and culture. Whether you’re covering Nashville’s busy streets or navigating the backroads of small towns like Crossville or Linden, your team must be skilled, compassionate and ready to deliver a top-Bambi and friends sort of service.

Here’s how to build a dream team that’ll have your Tennessee NEMT business running like a finely tuned fiddle:

1 | Finding Your Dream Team
Hiring in Tennessee means looking for candidates who value teamwork, reliability and adaptability. Start by posting job openings on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn to reach a broad audience. Then, get hyper-local by connecting with community colleges like Chattanooga State or workforce programs offered by organizations such as the Tennessee Career Center.

Tap into the Volunteer State’s community pride by attending job fairs or advertising in local networks, especially in rural areas where personal connections matter. From Memphis to the mountains, Tennesseans value relationships and hiring locals can also give you team members who are already familiar with the area’s challenges. They might even be able to help you with strategic partnerships as they are already connected to the towns and communities.

2 | Training Your Team for Tennessee Roads
Once you’ve found your team, make sure they’re ready for Tennessee’s varied driving conditions. From maneuvering around downtown Knoxville to managing winding mountain roads in the Smokies, drivers need specialized training.

Ensure your team is well-versed in:

• Safe driving techniques for urban and rural roads
• ADA-compliance, including wheelchair lift operation and securement
• Navigating challenging weather, like heavy rain or icy patches during winter months

Don’t forget that quality customer service! Tennesseans appreciate friendly, courteous interactions. Teach drivers and staff how to assist passengers with mobility challenges, answer questions about services and provide kindness and care during long trips, like those drives from Jackson to Nashville.3 | Building a Positive, Team-Centered Culture
In Tennessee, fostering a workplace with real heart goes a long way. Creating a supportive, inclusive environment will help keep morale high and turnover low. Celebrate your team’s achievements by hosting milestone celebrations or participating in local events, like tailgates for a Tennessee Titans game or volunteering at a nearby food bank.Encourage feedback and open communication so your team feels heard. Team-building activities like group outings to local landmarks, such as Dollywood or the Country Music Hall of Fame, can also strengthen bonds and reinforce your shared commitment to providing only the best NEMT services.By hiring locally, training thoroughly, and building a strong team culture, your NEMT business will thrive across Tennessee’s urban and rural landscapes. With a skilled, compassionate crew on board, you’ll deliver reliable, safe and friendly service to clients all across the state.Looking ahead? Check out Part 7 for a deep dive into the tech tools you’ll need to streamline your operations in Tennessee. Or, head back to the series table of contents for more insights on growing your NEMT business in the Volunteer State.