Getting to submit a series of questions to a trucker with a million miles under his belt is a great privilege. I had a chance to do just that this past week. Read on and get the feel of what a career in truck driving is really like.
Q: Tell me about yourself, Mark.
A: I’m 43. I graduated in 2000 from Roadmaster Drivers School, and went to work for Werner. They treated me so well I stayed. I love to travel and see the country.
Q: What was training like for you at Roadmaster and would you recommend their training to those interested in the trucking industry?
A: Yes, absolutely, they cover all the basics. I learned how to drive in the military (U.S. Army) but Roadmaster covered all aspects of rules and map.
Q: What kind of advice would you give a new student going through a trucking school program?
A: I am [currently] a trainer for Werner and try to pass on my experience to new students thanks to Roadmaster. Pay close attention to everything said on and off the record- experience is the best teacher.
Q: What do you like best about truck driving?
A: Your office is the outdoors. Your boss is stuck in an office.
Q: How does it feel to have reached the 1 million mile mark?
A: It is an unreal feeling!!! I feel privileged and greatly honored. I’ve always wanted to drive a truck and accomplish 1 million miles - Now that I have, I’ll have to try for 2 million!
Q: What is life like on the road and where do you like to travel the most?
A: [Life on the road is] time controlled, close in quarters with a wide open road. I love it! [I like traveling] the mountains – any and all.
Q: How is the camaraderie on the road?
A: Not as good as it used to be, but basically we still stick together and help out when we can.
Q: What is the best thing about your truck?
A: It is one of the biggest fleet trucks Werner has and I always get compliments about how nice it looks.
Q: What kinds of truck driving experiences stand out for you so far in your truck driving career?
A: Communicating with all kinds of lifestyles.
Q: What advice has been the most important to you since you’ve been driving?
A: Bill at Roadmaster said it best, “Plan and have fun.”
