CDLjobs.com Trucking Jobs Blog

Truckload Carriers Association Recognizes EPES Transport System Driver

ALEXANDRIA, VA. -- The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has recognized truck driver Malcolm Coston of Mebane, N.C., as a Highway Angel for helping two stranded motorists on I-80 in Iowa.

According to a letter of gratitude written by Yvonne De La Rosa Thayer, the daughter of the two people Coston helped, her parents were traveling from Ind. to Denver when the driver's side rear tire blew.

As the couple sat stranded on the side of the road, it seemed nobody wanted to offer assistance in the 98 degree heat. About that time, Coston heard over the radio that a disabled car was on the side of the interstate and made a point of stopping. When he did, he asked if the husband and wife were okay and finished changing the spare tire for them. He was offered payment for his time, but refused the money.

A driver for EPES Transport System of Greensboro, N.C., Coston received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate and patch for his efforts. EPES Transport also received a certificate acknowledging that one of their drivers has been recognized as a Highway Angel. 

Since its inception in Aug. 1997, the Highway Angels program has made an effort to recognize drivers, like Coston, for the unusual kindness, courtesy and courage they have shown others while on the job. TCA has received letters and e-mails from people across North America nominating truck drivers for the program.

To view archival copies of past Highway Angel press releases, visit www.truckload.org/pressroom. To learn more about the program or to nominate a driver, go to www.truckload.org/highwayangels. For additional information, contact TCA at (703) 838-1950 or angel@truckload.org.

Watkins and Shepard Trucking – US EPA SmartWay Environmental Excellence Award Recipient

Watkins and Shepard Trucking received an Environmental Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency SmartWaySM Transport Partnership for its leadership in conserving energy and lowering greenhouse gas emissions from its transportation and freight activities.  Watkins and Shepard Trucking adopted several fuel-saving technologies, purchased newer, more efficient equipment, and developed strategies and driver incentive programs that function in synergy to save fuel, reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and generate savings.  Watkins and Shepard Trucking is a national carrier of truckload dry van, flatbed, and less-than-truckload (LTL) freight and is headquartered in Helena, MT employing over 1000 people at 21 locations across the country. 

“Improving fleet mileage is just good business; it is not only important to the environment, but important to the bottom-line.”  Said Jim Lewis Director of Truckload Operations “Watkins Shepard wants to be a successful trucking company and also a good neighbor concerned about the health and well-being of our population.  We are proud to be an industry leader in emission and fuel efficiency study and implementation and hope to leave a healthy environment for our employees’ children and grandchildren.  We are proud to be a SmartWay partner.”

Ray Kuntz, Watkins Shepard CEO and current chairman of the American Trucking Association, states, "We have invested in the latest fuel saving technologies including auxiliary power units and super single tires and most importantly we have cooperated and asked for our drivers input.  Driver habits have a huge impact on improving MPG and our drivers have stepped up to the plate.  We also invest considerable time with new drivers in our driver training program in Missoula, MT teaching fuel saving driver techniques.  New drivers that understand the importance of fuel efficiency from the moment they take the wheel are more likely to conserve fuel and reduce carbon emissions.  I am proud of our success in the EPA SmartWay program and encourage more businesses to join.  Together we can reduce carbon emissions, burn less fuel and reduce our impact on the environment for future generations."
Watkins and Shepard Trucking was one of just 27 companies and organizations, from among the Partnerships’ more than 1000 Partners, to receive this distinction.  The awards were announced today at the annual conference of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals in Denver, Colorado. 

"EPA is pleased to recognize these SmartWay Partners with a 2008 Excellence Award.  I commend Watkins and Shepard Trucking for its leadership in promoting sustainable transportation practices through the SmartWay Transport Partnership", said Margo T. Oge, Director of the Office of Transportation and Air Quality, EPA.  "Their commitment is helping lead us toward a cleaner environment and more secure energy supply."

SmartWay was introduced by EPA and a select group of fifteen shipping and business leaders in 2004 as an innovative, market-based partnership to reduce fuel use, greenhouse gas emissions, and air pollutants from the freight sector.  Today, more than 1000 businesses and organizations have joined the Partnership, including companies of all sizes, from Fortune 500 companies to family-owned businesses, each working to improve their environmental performance.  Together, through the SmartWay Partnership, these companies, including Watkins and Shepard Trucking, are conserving over 540 million gallons of diesel fuel per year, saving the trucking industry at least $2.3 billion in annual fuel and maintenance costs, and eliminating over 6 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global warming.  By 2012, the SmartWay program, with full industry participation, estimates nationwide that it will achieve annual fuel savings of 3.3 to 6.6 billion gallons of diesel fuel, eliminating 33 - 66 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions and up to 200,000 tons of nitrogen oxide emissions.
 
For more information about SmartWay visit:  www.epa.gov/smartway or call (734) 214-4767.

For more information about the SmartWay Award recipients, visit:  www.epa.gov/smartway/awards07.htm

ACT Wins EPA SmartWay Award

KANSAS CITY, MO. -- American Central Transport, Inc. (ACT) announced today that it has been recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWaySM  Transport Partnership with the 2008 SmartWay Excellence Award.

Each year, the U.S. EPA SmartWay Transport program recognizes those Partners' special achievements that significantly reduce the environmental impacts of the freight sector. The award honors organizations that integrate innovative strategies and technologies into their business operations resulting in reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The award recipients are recognized for environmental excellence, recruiting effectiveness, promotional efforts, innovation and creativity. 

For the past several years, ACT has implemented initiatives such as aerodynamic tractors, heating/cooling technology that reduces truck idling, use of low viscosity lubrication and speed management policies. These actions have greatly improved the company's operations by reducing pollution and increasing fuel efficiency.

The results have been exceptional. When compared to an operation that has not implemented any actions regarding fuel efficiency, ACT's programs have reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 33,000 tons, particulate matter by 3 tons and nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 120 tons. In total, ACT has reduced emissions by 83 tons per truck per year.

"We will continue to search for additional ways to improve our fuel efficiency while reducing both our dependence on foreign oil and the impact on our environment," said Wayne Anderson, Senior Vice President of Operations for ACT. "This is a program that we firmly believe in and we will continually strive for improvements." 

About ACT

ACT is a premium service truckload carrier serving major shippers throughout the eastern half of the United States. Major shipping points include Kansas City, Chicago, St. Louis, Dallas, Memphis, Columbus, Atlanta, Charlotte, and most major cities within our operating area. For more information about our company, visit www.americancentral.com

Truckload Carriers Association Recognizes Unisource Driver

Ignoring a wind chill of -20, Roach plunged into freezing cold water to pull victim to safety

  ALEXANDRIA, VA. -- The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has recognized truck driver Leonard T. "Lenny" Roach of Villa Park, Ill., as a Highway Angel for pulling a motorist out of a car filling with water despite the risks to his own life.

The incident took place just after 5 a.m. on Feb. 19, 2008. Roach was driving his regular truck route along I-94 near South Bend, Ind., being especially careful because the wind chill factor was -20 that day and icy road conditions were causing numerous accidents. Suddenly, he saw the car in front of him hit a patch of black ice. The car veered off the roadway and down an embankment, rolling several times before landing upside down in a water-filled ditch.

According to an article that was published in The Times of Northwest Indiana, the local newspaper for the area, the driver, Ernesto R. Soto, 49, was not injured from the crash. However, his car quickly filled with water, and he was hanging upside down from his seat belt. Soto managed to undo the belt and crawl into the back seat, where he temporarily found a pocket of air to breathe.

Meanwhile, Roach stopped his truck and ran down the embankment. He attempted to open one of the car's doors, but could not, so went around to the other side and forced open the other door. With freezing cold water already up to his shoulders, Roach extracted the driver, carried him back up the hill and put him into his warm cab, where they waited for almost two hours before emergency rescue personnel could arrive from tending to other accidents.

In the past, Roach had helped other motorists with things like fixing flat tires, but had never been involved with a rescue of this magnitude before. "It's just what you've got to do," he said simply.

A driver for Unisource of Addison, Ill., Roach received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate, and patch for his efforts. Unisource also received a certificate acknowledging that one of its drivers is a Highway Angel. 

Since its inception in Aug. 1997, the Highway Angels program has recognized hundreds of drivers for the unusual kindness, courtesy, and courage they have shown others while on the job. TCA has received letters and e-mails from people across North America nominating truck drivers for the program.

To view archival copies of past Highway Angel press releases, visit www.truckload.org/pressroom. To learn more about the program or to nominate a driver, go to www.truckload.org/highwayangels. For additional information, contact TCA at (703) 838-1950 or angel@truckload.org.

Truckload Carriers Association Recognizes J.E.T. Transit Driver

Victim's Car Hydroplaned and Flipped Over Into a Ditch

Alexandria, Va. - The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) recently recognized company equipment driver Jonathan Gazarian of French Lick, Ind., as a Highway Angel for his bravery in assisting a man injured in a car accident.

Gazarian was driving to work around 3:45 a.m. when he noticed the lights of an SUV down over an embankment close to the tree line. "Something is wrong with this picture," he thought, and went to investigate. Seeing that the vehicle was flipped upside down over a ditch, he proceeded to call 911. Soon after, he heard a faint cry and went to search for the driver.

The victim, Billy Stephens, Jr., had been returning from a local casino when suddenly his car hydroplaned and flipped over. Bleeding, he had pried the vehicle's door open, but fell into the ditch filled with icy cold water and was unable to move further. Gazarian kept him coherent and calm until paramedics arrived and transported him to the local emergency room. Stephens was treated for broken vertebrae in his neck, a deep cut requiring stitches, and a bruised spleen.

"No one can ever tell me there is no such thing as angels anymore because I know one," said Stephens. "His name is Jonathan Gazarian."

Gazarian has been driving for more than 18 years and is close to having one million accident-free miles. A driver for Jet Transit, Inc., of Leavenworth, Ind., he received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate, and patch for his efforts. Jet Transit, Inc., also received a certificate acknowledging that one of their drivers is a Highway Angel. 

Since its inception in Aug. 1997, the Highway Angels program has recognized hundreds of drivers for the unusual kindness, courtesy, and courage they have shown others while on the job. TCA has received letters and e-mails from people across North America nominating truck drivers for the program.

To view archival copies of past Highway Angel press releases, visit www.truckload.org/pressroom. To learn more about the program or to nominate a driver, go to www.truckload.org/highwayangels. For additional information, contact TCA at (703) 838-1950 or angel@truckload.org.

West Side chairman lived high on the hog

There's an interesting article in the Cedar Rapids Gazette, about Cedar Rapids based West Side Transport.  Here's a snippet:

CEDAR RAPIDS - A jet, fishing trawler, yacht and $20,000-per-month credit card are among the extravagances the chairman of a Cedar Rapids trucking company enjoyed at his firm's expense, according to a federal lawsuit filed last week.

Click here to read on.....

DECKER NAMES SEPTEMBER 2008 DRIVERS OF THE MONTH

FORT DODGE, IA. -- Decker Truck Line, Inc. is pleased to announce that Carl Vettel was selected as the September 2008 driver of the month for the Reefer/Van Division. Carl and his wife Trina live in Hampton, IA. They have two sons: Adam, a junior at Iowa State University majoring in biology; and David, a freshman at Central College in Oskaloosa, Iowa, majoring in mathematics.  The Vettels enjoy camping and riding motorcycles in their spare time.

Gary Northrop, Vettel’s dispatcher said, “Carl is a very good driver; he is always on time or early. He keeps his truck very clean and neat. He is very helpful, willing to help with any issues.”

M. Brett Duncan was selected as the September 2008 Driver of the Month for the Flatbed Division. Brett, his wife Vickie and their children live in Des Moines, Iowa. They have two sons, Brian and Alex, and a married daughter, Rebekah.  They are also the proud grandparents of Rebekah’s three sons and will welcome a granddaughter in December.

Duncan explained his success, “ Without God and Vickie, I would not be as successful as I am. They both have never given up on me.” The Duncans like to camp and spend time with their friends from church. Sue Anderson, Brett’s dispatcher said of Duncan, “Brett is a good driver, and seems to like to run. He’ll do what is asked of him and is a very conscientious driver. He is easy to work with and does a good job.”

Congratulations to both September Drivers of the Month.  Drivers and owner-operators are nominated monthly by their dispatcher.  They are selected based on overall performance within all areas of the company, including operational productivity, safety record, maintenance/care of equipment (including idle time), payroll, billing and customer service.  All drivers and owner-operators selected as a driver of the month will be eligible to be chosen as Driver/Owner-Operator of the year.

Founded in 1931, Decker Truck Line, Inc. is a diversified carrier, transporting flatbed, refrigerated and dry van freight to the 48 contiguous states and seven Canadian provinces.  Under the sole ownership of Don Decker, Decker’s corporate office is located in Fort Dodge, IA.  Additional terminals are in Davenport, Iowa; Mediapolis, Iowa; Mason City, Iowa; Hammond, Indiana; Masury, Ohio; Birmingham, Alabama and Hutchins, Texas.

DECKER TRUCK LINE, INC & DRIVERS RECEIVE RECOGNITION ON SAFETY EFFORTS

FORT DODGE, IA. -- Decker Truck Line, Inc. was recognized at the Iowa Motor Truck Association’s “Best of the Best” awards luncheon held September 17th, 2008 in Des Moines, IA at their Annual Management Conference.

Decker Truck Line, Inc. received the 2008 IMTA Fleet Safety Award for Truckload Carrier over 15 million miles. Decker Truck Line, Inc also received the 2008 IMTA Grand Trophy-Iowa Fleet Safety. Decker was selected from 23 first place division winners. Jim Wilkins, Vice-President of Safety and Human Resources, accepted these awards on behalf of Decker.

As an award winner, the company has demonstrated its continued dedication to safety with accident free miles, excellent safety ratings and an ongoing commitment within the company to make safety a top priority. Through this annual contest, trucking companies are recognized for their safety efforts in the state of Iowa. The number of accident-free miles driven, overall safety ratings and established safety programs within the company are all considered in the contest judging criteria. The Iowa Motor Truck Association along with Great West Casualty Company, Midwest Wheel Companies and the Iowa Council of Safety Management sponsor the contest to promote safety in the State of Iowa.

Bahne Stuecker received recognition as a 2008 IMTA Outstanding Professional Driver. Bahne has been a professional driver for 26 years and has 2.6 million miles driven. His dispatcher, Joey O’Brion had this to say, “Bahne is one of those drivers everyone wishes to have. He understands the industry real well; he is patient, understanding and willing to help out in any way possible. Bahne is the type of driver who takes care of you and can easily get the job done.”

Dave Bush was recognized as a 2008 IMTA Iowa Road Team member. The Iowa Road Team is a group of professional drivers selected each year to represent the trucking industry. Although they are still full-time drivers, these individuals take several days out throughout the year to travel across the State and talk to the public about highway safety and trucking issues. The 2008 Iowa Road Team has assisted in a variety of events including the 2008 Truck Driving Championships and speaking to Driver Education Classes. They have served as great ambassadors of the trucking industry.

Decker Truck Line, Inc is under sole ownership of Don Decker, with corporate offices in Fort Dodge, IA. Additional terminals are located in Davenport, IA; Mediapolis, IA; Mason City, IA; Hammond, IN; Masury, OH; and Birmingham, AL. Decker is a diversified carrier transporting flatbed, refrigerated, and dry van freight to the 48 contiguous states and seven Canadian provinces.

RUAN DRIVER RECEIVES MILLION MILE SAFETY AWARD

DES MOINES, IA. -- Ruan Transport Corporation recently honored driver Steve Muirhead, who received the Ruan Million Mile Safety Award. This remarkable achievement recognizes his one million miles of accident-free driving for Ruan.

Dave Cochran, Muirhead’s manager, selected him to receive this prestigious award. “Steve Muirhead is a person of high character and principal, a valuable asset to Ruan and the community. He has always been an outstanding member of our team. Steve, without fail, will always accomplish whatever task he has been assigned, safely and efficiently,” Cochran said of Muirhead, who has dedicated 10 years of outstanding service driving for Ruan.

When asked what tips he would share with other drivers, Muirhead advised to always be alert, pay attention and slow down.  He has received 7 safety awards from Ruan and is a firm believer in the company’s motto: “Safety First.”

Muirhead will be presented his award at the annual safety recognition banquet in October, where he will receive a personal plaque of recognition and customized jacket honoring his accomplishment.

About Ruan  
Ruan Transport Corporation is one of the largest privately owned transportation service companies in the United States. With more than 75 years of transportation management experience, Ruan provides dedicated contract carriage services as well as bulk transportation and Ruan Certified Brokerage Services. Through strong customer partnerships, Ruan adds integrated services such as logistics, warehousing, cross-docking and others to provide customers with individualized and scalable supply chain solutions. For more information about Ruan, visit www.ruan.com.

TRANSPORT AMERICA CONGRATULATES AUGUST 2008 DRIVERS OF THE MONTH

EAGAN, MN. -- Minnesota-based truckload carrier Transport America recently announced its August 2008 Drivers of the Month. Each driver was recognized for his or her outstanding service to Transport America and the company’s customers. 

Professional company drivers selected for August include the following:
• Dan Becker
• Earl Stout
• Ronnie Reed
• Jaime Diaz

Professional contractors selected for August include the following:
• Thomas Barstow
• Dorothy Ivery

"We are extremely proud of each of these drivers; not simply because this is a great achievement individually, but because they also represent the Transport America driving team - true professionals that value safety and provide industry-leading customer service every day," said Scott Hunt, Vice President of Operations.

Fleet managers nominate drivers monthly for this honor. The drivers' on-time customer service, safety and working percentage are all considered for selection. Transport America congratulates these drivers on their success. Each driver will be presented his award in a formal presentation at Transport America headquarters in Eagan, Minnesota.

Transport Corporation of America, Inc. provides a wide range of truckload freight carriage and logistics services to customers in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Transport America provides time-definite and other responsive services through its team of dedicated and committed employees, supported by state-of-the-art technology and information systems.  For more information, visit our website at www.transportamerica.com.