What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
I absolutely love the fact that I could be anywhere in North America on any given day. I get to see a lot of beautiful places and get paid for it! I chose this career because I get to feel a sense of achievement bringing supplies that people need to live and survive while fulfilling my love of driving and travel.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
I have always wanted to be involved in STEM/Skilled Trades as I have always loved participating in non-traditional work. From a young age, I was happiest in the garage with my father and brother, up to my elbows in dirt and grease. I even looked forward to the change of seasons so I could go change over the car tires lol so it seemed natural to get into a career where I was hands-on.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
I begin my work day by doing a pre-trip inspection on my tractor and starting it up. If I have a trailer pinned I would also inspect it at this time otherwise I would inspect it once I go get it. If I don't already have a load I would speak to my dispatcher to find out where I have to go to pick up my freight and then proceed there to get loaded. If I already had a load, I would hit the highway toward my delivery location. This could take a half hour or days depending on where it has to go. I move freight across Canada and the US. During my trip, I would stop to refuel my truck and also myself 🙂. Long trips mean once my hours of service are up I will be heading to the nearest truck stop for a shower and a good night's sleep so I can do it all over again tomorrow. I mostly work alone in my truck but there are times when co-workers may have to work together or switch loads. I plan my routes to enable myself to arrive at the required location for the delivery time set out by the customer while staying within the regulated daily and weekly hours of service.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
I love to play pool and play in a league when possible. I am also a big classic car buff and love to go to car shows in my classic car.
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
I would tell them to investigate it to see what it is all about and, if possible, do a program where they get to try and learn the different trades. That way they can not only find out if it's right for them but also find out which area interests them most.
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