Did you know that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, one out of every four veterans are truck drivers? Or that 10 percent of all truck drivers are veterans? If you have served our country and are looking to transition into a career in the truck driving industry, or if you are already a veteran of both fields, there are many programs and opportunities available to assist you along the way.
Each November, Veteran’s Day reminds us of the great dedication, commitment, and sacrifices made by the men and women who have served our country. Their bravery is why countless carriers, support groups, and government organizations work year round to provide resources for veterans entering the truck driving industry and support to those already hard at work. Keep reading to find out how these helpful resources could assist you and your loved ones.
Looking to Enter the Truck Driving Industry?One of the most difficult parts about leaving a career in the military can be the transition into civilian life. Finding the right job that fits your qualifications, interests, and needs can feel impossible. Many veterans choose a career in the truck driving industry because of the job availability, flexible hours, and financial stability.
For veterans looking to enter into a career in transportation, there are many resources and organizations that can help you waive fees, exempt you from certain requirements, and provide resources for networking and finding the perfect job.
The Trucking Action Plan to Strengthen America’s Workforce was launched in 2021 by President Biden with the goal of making it easier for veterans to enter and adjust to the trucking industry. This program offers a wealth of opportunities in addition to the benefits already offered by the longstanding GI Bill.
If you’re looking for educational instruction or to connect with employers and field experts, the Department of Labor’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is a great place to start. TAP provides education on workplace fundamentals, as well as other benefits for veterans such as: mentorships, job fairs, resume help, internships, and more!
Qualifying veterans who have experience operating large military vehicles are also able to waive the commercial driver’s license skills test. The FMCSA offers a waiver that allows veterans to forgo driving tests, as long as they are currently licensed to operate military motor vehicles and have done so in the last 12 months. Currently, this waiver is available in all states.
If this doesn’t apply to you, the Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operator Training Grant can also be used to pay for a trucking education program. This grant applies to all US Armed Forces members and their spouses.
Already a Truck Driver?If you’re one of the thousands of veterans across the country who are already working hard in the truck driving industry, there are still many resources and organizations available to offer round the clock support.
Veterans In Trucking is a company that makes its mission to connect veterans with resources, career opportunities, and industry connections. It assists carriers in creating veteran-readiness programs and offers a platform to apply for job postings for carriers that value and support veteran drivers.
The company also provides support to veterans through life changing experiences, such as their current Mission Veteran Expedition to Vietnam, giving veterans of the Vietnam War a chance to return to the country and see it in a new light.
For those looking to honor fellow or fallen veterans, organizations such as Wreaths Across America offer chances to show your support. Wreaths Across America recognizes and honors fallen soldiers and veterans by placing wreaths on gravestones across the country every holiday season.
On Saturday, December 16, 2023, more than 2 million volunteers and supporters will honor fallen veterans at national cemeteries and more than 4,000 locations nationwide. If you’d like to participate, it’s not too late. There are a number of ways you can be a part of this mission:
You should never feel alone as a veteran in the truck driving industry. Many carriers offer support that can make a difference in the lives of you and your loved ones. Organizations and companies across the country also make it their mission to offer resources and opportunities that are always available.
If you’ve worked with a great organization for veteran truck drivers or have any stories to share, please reach out to us on our social media!
The post Resources and Support for Veterans in the Trucking Industry appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/ZYKjdpx
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Truck driving is a career path that demands strength, resilience, and commitment to seeing a job through. A good driver can take pride in the work of a job well done, even during the long, quiet miles of the open road. The same skills are required of the courageous men and women who serve our country. However, for veterans who choose to become drivers, the transition from the armed forces to trucking can be a challenging one, especially when it comes to mental health. We spoke with David Pike, Director of Recruiting for NFI, who shared his story of life as a military veteran and ways he’s found support with the trucking industry.
A Comrade in ArmsDavid Pike’s professional journey began in the Marine Corps, where he worked until 1994. After working in an ammunition and explosives MOS for six years, Sergeant Pike was returning from the Western Pacific deployment when he learned there were opportunities to be assigned to recruiting duty stateside and in the local community. He took the opportunity and quickly fell in love with the rewarding feeling of how recruiting can change someone’s life.
“Initially, in military recruiting, you’re selling the glory, honor, and reputation of the Marine Corps. That changed shortly after a young Marine I had recruited, returned home from boot camp and said, “Thank You”. Not sure at the time why gratitude was extended, “It later hit me that I had changed that Marine’s life and gave him an opportunity and hope for a better future.” Pike said. Later, Pike shared, “Changing someone’s life is powerful and should be taken with the highest level of responsibility in any profession, especially transportation,” and this is why he loves so much of what we do in recruiting. He later noted, “We truly and genuinely affect people’s lives.”
In 1993, upon leaving the Marine Corps after almost 10 years, Sergeant Pike transitioned his recruiting skills into the transportation industry. That transition was not without hurdles, but his story is a testament to resilience and dedication. He stated that in the 30 years since joining the transportation world, he and his team fully embrace the concept of changing lives and not “filling seats.” Pike shared with us a few of his most passionate items relating to his profession; and being a veteran himself, it is obvious that is one area that he is championing within NFI. Veterans all too often need advocacy when coming to a new industry. Veterans speak the same language and understand each other’s stories, challenges, and armored front better than most.
Mental Health: Unseen BattlesStress is a real issue in the transportation industry. Professional drivers may be comfortable dealing with the challenges of the road, but veterans have other battles and challenges they may be dealing with that are unique. “Mental health battles are often left unseen and not addressed,” Pike states. He highlighted the unspoken realities of veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. He pointed out that,
“As veterans, we are expected to blend seamlessly back into civilian life despite having put up a shield for years even while carrying emotional burdens, memories, and experiences that most people will never understand. In the service, especially if you have any position of leadership, you are taught to NEVER show weakness, show confidence to your troops.”
The experiences and emotional burdens of a life of military service left their mark on Pike’s relationships after he spent years trying to “just man up.” He found himself losing friends, trying to deal with an ending marriage, and nearly losing contact with his daughter. Fortunately, prioritizing mental health turned things around.
The Power of UnderstandingTruck drivers may not always talk about mental health, but it’s a subject that affects us all. Pike was very open with us about his mental health struggles and ongoing resolution. His journey serves as a reminder that we’re not alone in this. In his role as Director of Recruiting with NFI, Pike knows that veterans often emerge from service with emotional armor, and the industry has a role to play in helping them transition to civilian life successfully. He advocates for support that comes from trucking companies and from fellow drivers, especially those who are brothers in arms.
“It’s a call to action, not just for recruiters but for all of us. As drivers, we have a unique perspective and a shared experience. Let’s create a culture where we can talk about our experiences and support one another when needed.”
David Pike’s story is a testament to the power of understanding, support, and community. He’s been through the challenges and triumphs of working in trucking, and he knows the unique struggles veterans face when transitioning into civilian life.
Drivers aren’t just colleagues; it’s a family on the road. Pike hopes that all members of this industry learn from one another, support one another, and ensure that our community remains strong and resilient.
Thoughts for the RoadWhen we asked Pike if he had any advice for transitioning to life as a civilian, he left us with a few final thoughts.
Pike’s road, like that of many veterans transitioning to civilian life, has not been smooth. But after prioritizing his own mental health, he happily shared that his personal relationships have never been better. And his last thought for the road? “If you want any advice, go live. Go make memories and spend time together. You do that, and life is going to be good.” The post Veterans in Trucking: An Insider Perspective from NFI’s Director of Driver Recruiting appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/AMFr3Tj One of the hardest parts about being a truck driver is missing holidays and being far from home during important celebrations when your job calls for you to be on the road. This sacrifice should never go unrecognized as truckers work to keep our economy and daily life on track heading into the busy holiday season. However, if you’re going to be on the road this Thanksgiving, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on one of the best parts of the holiday: the food!
Whether you want a reminder of a traditional, home-cooked Thanksgiving dinner or you’re just looking to take a break from truck stop restaurants, there are countless recipes that can be made with just a few ingredients and tools from the comfort of your tractor. Keep reading to find out everything you need to bring the celebration on the road with you this Thanksgiving holiday.
Tools for a Kitchen on WheelsYou might be surprised by how many home-cooked meals can be made right out of your truck. Over the years, truck drivers have found many creative ways to make their trucks feel like home, including using small kitchen appliances to cook or meal prep when they’re on the road.
A slow cooker, crock pot, or portable stove is the perfect tool for creating meat dishes, vegetables, and even desserts without taking up much room. Just make sure your truck has the power capabilities necessary for the job. An inverter and an auxiliary power unit (APU) work together so you can easily operate all your appliances, even when your truck is off.
A small collection of spices, Zipper storage bags, and tupperware are also important to maximize your space while still being able to cook and store home-cooked meals. Square plastic baskets can help you organize your space, and it’s always helpful to secure everything you cook with before you hit the road. Nobody wants a slow cooker flying through the air when they take a turn!
Thanksgiving Recipes To GoWith just a few tools and some simple ingredients, you can bring the comfort of Thanksgiving staple foods to wherever you are this year.
For most people, the first dish they think of when it comes to Thanksgiving dinner is the turkey. Surprisingly, making a delicious turkey on the road isn’t difficult at all. Slow cooker turkey breasts can be the perfect main course, and will leave plenty for leftovers throughout the week! Just plug your slow cooker into the inverter, salt and pepper the turkey breasts, and add one cup of water or chicken broth to the liner of the pot. Let this simmer on low for five hours, and you’re good to go! There are countless variations if you’re looking to spice up the turkey, such as this one, that uses dry onion soup mix to create a gravy.
Sides, Desserts, and More!If you feel like no Thanksgiving dinner is complete without sides like stuffing or green beans, there are plenty of easy recipes to make your truck feel just like home. Once again, a slow cooker is the perfect appliance to make delicious Thanksgiving sides, no oven necessary!
Making stuffing requires a bit more prep than turkey, as you combine the ingredients like butter, onions, celery, bread, and seasonings before placing them in the pot. However, recipes like this make it easy to follow step by step and create the perfect stuffing that you can even prepare up to 24 hours before to save yourself time.
Green bean casserole is even more simple: all it requires is a bag of frozen green beans, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and some French onion crunchies to top it off! Just mix the ingredients together and heat them in a microwave or on low on a portable stove, and you’ll have the perfect side dish in minutes.
When it comes to Thanksgiving dessert, pies are usually the star of the show. Although a pumpkin pie is best made in an oven, a slow cooker can be a great inspiration for many other tasty treats. Recipes for brownies, fudge, fruit cobblers, and more are all over the internet, and could be the perfect way to finish off your holiday celebration.
Spending holidays on the road as a truck driver can be hard, but there’s one way to make sure you bring a piece of home with you this Thanksgiving. Cooking traditional Thanksgiving meals from the comfort of your tractor is the perfect way to try something new and remind yourself of your family and loved ones.
Here at Drive My Way, we strive to find creative tips and tricks to make truck driving fun and safe all year round. If you’re looking for more articles like this, be sure to tune into our weekly Truck Driver Blog posts and keep up with us on social media. The post Thanksgiving on the Road: Easy Recipes, Tips, and More appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/LpNDaOZ When you are looking for trucking careers, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration, especially if you are a student driver looking for your first job, or you are looking to move into a new specialty within the industry. During the job search and hiring process though, drivers often make some key mistakes which can reduce their overall job satisfaction and can lead to job turnover within the first year. Some of the most common mistakes we see drivers make while looking for trucking careers and during the hiring process include things like: Not Identifying Your Goals/Needs: There are many trucking companies out there and they all have unique benefits to working for them. Ultimately, as you begin looking for a career you need to identify your goals and needs so that you can make the best choice as to where you agree to work. If you do not take this step first, you may wind up in the middle of hiring and realize the company does not offer the type of health insurance benefits you require, or the schedule does not align with your family’s needs. Setting Unrealistic Expectations: This mistake is especially true for student/novice drivers. No one’s first job is ever perfect, and you can’t expect your first trucking job to be either. As you gain experience, you may be able to expect more from a position you interview for, but it is important to realize that every company is going to be unique, and you will never get absolutely every demand you have on your list. Failing to Follow Up: From the moment you submit an application through the hiring process, it is vital to follow up with your recruiter and any other individuals you meet during the interview process. Even if this job does not pan out as your next career, making those contacts could serve you well somewhere down the road. It can also be the difference between showing your true interest in the position and just being another candidate. Forgetting to Ask Questions/Negotiate: Interviewing with a company is just as much an opportunity for you to ask questions, as it is for the recruiter. To create a career path with a given company, you must have a complete understanding of what the job will entail and where the company is headed. The Harvard Business Review has compiled an extensive list of questions that should be asked during any job interview including:
Forgoing Research: Before applying for trucking careers with any company, you should plan to do some research on the company itself. Aside from just the benefits they offer, you should know some of the company’s history, what services they offer, some of the clients they serve, and find current client/employees testimonials. The more information you have going into the interview and hiring process, the more likely you are to stand out from other candidates and be able to make the best choice for your career. Drive My Way’s founder, president, and CEO, Beth Potratz says, “When considering a job search, it’s important for drivers to create a plan, be willing to invest their time, and make it a priority. To avoid some common mistakes, drivers should provide their availability to recruiters to avoid back and forth unsuccessful attempts to connect, carefully review their application for errors or omissions, research the organization they are interviewing with to find out how other drivers like working there, and ask questions during the interview with the recruiter and the hiring manager. Drivers must take the time to clearly define what is most important to them in a job in order to be successful in their job search.” Finding the right trucking job doesn’t have to be complicated. To work with a team who is dedicated to helping you find, apply for, and get hired at a carrier that matches your needs, reach out to us at Drive My Way to learn more. Be sure to follow our blog as well, for tips on how to be successful in the trucking industry and finding trucking careers that align with your long-term goals. The post Common Mistakes Drivers Make During the Hiring Process appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/CIJGUPM Each year, NFI Industries recognizes and celebrates its drivers across the country who have gone above and beyond to reach impressive industry milestones.
At events held nationwide throughout 2023, NFI celebrated 25 drivers who have driven at least one million accident-free miles as the most recent inductees in its Million Miles recognition program. Six drivers were also honored with a spot in the NFI Haul of Fame wall in Camden, NJ. This title is only given to drivers who have driven two million safe, accident-free miles or tenured 20 years with NFI.
NFI takes great pride in all of this year’s recognized drivers, saying: “It’s truly an impressive accomplishment to travel accident-free for one million miles and two-million miles, and it is a direct result of commitment to safety day in and day out. This achievement exemplifies the dedication each of these drivers have to being safe. The focus required to earn this honor is truly inspiring.”
Terminal managers, directors, and vice presidents from NFI joined the drivers and their selected guests to spotlight the honored drivers at celebratory events held in multiple locations throughout the country. At each banquet, NFI terminal managers gave speeches to honor their drivers and the impact of their achievements, and the drivers received awards in recognition of their hard work and accident-free driving records.
These events are not the only times that NFI makes safe driving a top priority. NFI’s Behavioral Safety Team encourages safe driving practices in all of the carrier’s drivers by working with different operations on safe behaviors to start from day one. NFI also rewards drivers with quarterly safety bonuses to ensure drivers maintain these core company values year round.
However, reaching such milestones is no easy feat, and these drivers had some advice for those starting out in the field or looking to improve their safe driving records.
“Don’t try to cut corners,” said Haul of Fame Driver Robert D. of Cedar Rapids, IA. “Never be in a rush. If the circumstances require you to go slow, you can’t worry about cars behind you getting upset. Your responsibility is to get back home safely.”
“Remain patient, and plenty of rest,” said Million Miles Driver Gregory N. of Minooka, IL. “No load is worth your life or someone else’s.”
When NFI asked the drivers what legacy they wanted to leave when they retire from trucking, their responses revealed the dedication and thoughtfullness required to achieve this kind of impressive record.
“I’d want my legacy to be that I was a positive person, worked hard, and didn’t complain,” said Million Miles Driver Michael K. of Wilmington, NC.
“I’d want mine to be that I was a good, hard working driver and a professional coach,” added Million Miles Driver Edward D. of Plainfield, CT.
Here are the names of the rest of these impressive drivers who work hard to make our roads a safer place:
Congratulations to all of these drivers for their amazing accomplishments, and all the drivers nationwide with impressive safety records that are making our roads safer!
The post NFI’s 2023 Million Mile & Haul of Fame Drivers Celebrated Across the Nation appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/YRTFgWk The decision to become a truck driver is not as easy as applying to any posting and starting at a random carrier.
Every truck driver knows they must work hard to receive their CDL before they have to decide what sector of the industry they’d like to enter. Some jobs, like boom truck operating, require an additional certification or training. Some trucking jobs will take you across the country, while others stay local.
If you’re looking for a truck driving job that has higher than average earning potential, ample job opportunities nationwide, and less downtime between jobs, then reefer, or refrigerated, driving might be the position for you. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know if you’re considering becoming a truck driver hauling temperature-controlled freight.
What are the Benefits of Delivering Refrigerated Freight?Because it is a speciality skill to monitor the temperature and functions of a refrigerated trailer, reefer drivers often receive higher pay per mile on average than other sectors of the trucking industry. This is also due to the growing demand for frozen or climate-controlled items, which means there will be no shortage of job postings across the country.
Being a reefer driver also means having quicker pickup and delivery times, since both are time sensitive. You’ll be making fewer stops at each facility on your route, and reefer drivers usually have less downtime between jobs because as soon as your refrigerated trailer has been emptied, you’ll need to refill it with more freight and continue on.
“At my old driving job, I had a lot more to do,” says Jerry O’Brien, a driver at Piazza Produce Inc. “Now, I just drop the product, get it signed or checked in, and leave. I’ve also been able to get to know more about all types of food.”
There are also diverse job opportunities available to skilled reefer drivers. You could deliver to grocery stores, or you might deliver produce to gourmet restaurants. Some reefer drivers deliver scientific equipment that need to be maintained at very specific temperatures, while others carry freight that are stored in unique places like the climate-controlled caves under Springfield, MO.
What Are the Cons?Every job has its downsides, and they are just as important to consider as the benefits when pursuing a career. For a specialized position like delivering refrigerated freight, there are a few considerations to think about before applying to your first position.
Reefer driving can be more stressful than other trucking sectors because of the added responsibility of monitoring and maintaining the refrigerated trailer temperature. Safeguarding perishable goods is an essential part of this kind of driving, which means ensuring that the temperature constantly remains within a specified range.
Although reefer trucks are often the newest and most advanced in a fleet, the risk of mechanical error can be greater, and a greater cause for stress because of the financial loss if the freight isn’t kept at the specified temperature. To avoid refrigerated unit problems, which could affect the entire load, drivers must be observant, adaptable, and always remain one step ahead in the case of emergencies.
“Weather conditions can be harsh at times for this kind of trucking, but I love it,” said Dalyn Small, a driver for Piazza Produce Inc. “Now when I go to the grocery store, I can tell the difference between parsley and cilantro!”
If you’re thinking of entering the trucking industry, or are a veteran driver looking to make a switch between sectors, reefer driving might be the right choice for you. With potential pay benefits, a fast moving schedule, and resumé-building specialized skills, delivering refrigerated freight offers many drivers exactly what they’ve been looking for.
Here at Drive My Way, we are proud to highlight all sectors of the trucking industry. Be sure to keep up with us on social media, or tune into our weekly Truck Driver Blog posts, to find out everything you need to know about the trucking industry in today’s world. The post Thinking About Becoming a Reefer Driver? Here’s What You Need to Know First appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/nH9MTa4 There are a few things that most truckers have in common, and one of them is the struggle of dealing with flickering trailer lights.
It’s well known that the root of this problem lies in the pigtail, or the electrical cord that powers your trailer lights from your tractor. Loose connections or faulty wiring can affect the pigtail’s ability to keep a consistent supply of power. However, until recently, the long-term solution for this frustrating problem was still unknown.
This is where the Pigtail Wedge comes in, an easy to install, long-lasting, and affordable solution that keeps drivers from constantly needing to readjust the pigtail or worrying about complying with DOT regulations. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the tool that is sure to become essential for truck drivers across the nation. An Easy SolutionWith 28 years of commercial truck driving under his belt, Pigtail Wedge inventor Robert Patterson has had his fair share of flickering and flashing trailer lights. Years of dealing with this frustrating and potentially dangerous issue led him to design and patent what is now known as the Pigtail Wedge.
The concept first struck Robert in 2017, when he was shopping for Christmas presents with his wife. The carrier he works for, Dayton Freight Lines, had been having ongoing issues with the electrical cords on many of the trucks in its fleet. Every three months, hundreds of trucks required new electrical cords, creating a costly and time-consuming pattern.
Then, in the Macy’s shoe department, Robert had an idea. He realized a shoe horn could be used to keep the pigtail from shifting, therefore maintaining the connection and keeping his trailer lights from flickering. Although the shoe horn was too large to fit at first, Robert used a dremel to adjust the size and create the first prototype of the Pigtail Wedge.
Initially designed as a short-term solution, Robert thought the wedge would be useful to keep his lights from flickering just until he was able to replace his electrical cord. However, after weeks, and then months, of no electrical issues, Robert realized he might have found the long-term solution to this common trucking problem.
How Does It Work?Over the years, truckers have tried various solutions for this pesky problem. Electrical tape, using screwdrivers to spread the contact posts, or other ways to manually force the connection have proved short-term fixes that aren’t worth the trouble.
“If you go out and ask a hundred truck drivers if they know how to fix this problem, a hundred truck drivers will tell you that you just shove anything in the electrical socket: paper clips, zip ties, or paper,” said Robert. “That was the go-to.”
However, Robert saw these solutions as limited. Drivers could keep their lights from flickering, but they had to continuously stop to readjust. Robert wanted to create a durable, long-lasting solution that would save truck drivers time and money, which led him to continue experimenting with the design of the Pigtail Wedge.
After testing shoe horns and 3D printing, Robert now uses an injection molding machine to create the wedge from a specially crafted proprietary blend of plastics. The size and tapered shape of the Pigtail Wedge allows drivers to insert the wedge as far as is necessary to keep the connection tight, and a lanyard made of durable rope ensures that the wedge won’t be lost.
When installing the Pigtail Wedge, the lanyard is first fed through the grip of the pigtail, then the plastic wedge is inserted into the receiver, creating a user-friendly solution that requires no expertise or specialized tools for installation.
“A lot of drivers will tell you that they don’t need something like this,” said Robert. “They’ll say they know how to fix it. But if every driver you talk to knows how to fix it, why do we still have the problem?”
Thinking About Trying It Out For Yourself?For many, the best part of the Pigtail Wedge is its low price tag. Starting at $6.99 on Robert’s website, the wedge can also be bought in bulk for any carrier looking to make an investment in its team.
With the winter holidays just around the corner, a Pigtail Wedge is also the perfect gift for any trucker, or a great addition to your own wish list if you’re looking to “fix the flicker with the flicker fixer,” as Robert Patterson likes to say.
Here at Drive My Way, we love highlighting innovative solutions for everyday obstacles in the trucking industry. If you know of other entrepreneurs making driving easier for everyone, or you just want to reach out with your thoughts, be sure to follow us on our social media! The post Flickering Trailer Lights? Try the Pigtail Wedge appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/nH9MTa4 A 2018 study appearing in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found depression in truck drivers occurring at a higher rate than in the overall population, 13.6% as opposed to 6.7% of all American adults. What causes this disparity between the general population and commercial drivers when it comes to mental health? How can you tell if you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, and if you are, how do you best combat them? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the truck driver depression crisis, and 4 important tips to take care of your mental health and well being while on the road.
Warning Signs of DepressionEveryone has hard days and feels sad from time to time. It can be difficult to distinguish these normal feelings from what specialists define as ‘major depressive disorder,’ especially if you don’t know the signs to look for.
Mayo Clinic defines depression as a mood disorder with persistent feelings of sadness or loss of interest in your usual habits, often seemingly without a cause. Depression is not a feeling you can ignore or “snap out of,” and it can have a deep impact on your personal relationships and day-to-day life.
Symptoms of depression vary person to person, but there are a few key warning signs to look out for.
4 Tips to Overcome Truck Driver DepressionBecause everyone’s experience with depression is different, there’s no “one size fits all” approach to coping with this mental health struggle. A profession like trucking can make finding a solution even more difficult at times, as commercial drivers often don’t have a routine schedule and can be away from their loved ones for long periods of time.
However, there are a few helpful strategies you can incorporate into your daily life to combat the stress and difficulty that can come with a career in trucking.
Tip 1: Recognize and ReactFor a long time, many people were afraid to admit if they were struggling with their mental health or fighting depression. Changing times has taken away this stigma, and the most important first step to finding a solution is recognizing the symptoms of depression in yourself.
Truck driving is one of the most dangerous jobs in America, and it can also be one of the most isolating. Admitting that you might be struggling with depression is not a sign of weakness, it’s actually the only way you will be able to feel stronger.
Tip 2: Maintain Your Personal ConnectionsOne of the most challenging parts of being a trucker is to be away from home for long stretches of time. Feeling like you are missing out on key moments or just missing your loved ones can contribute to intense feelings of sadness. This is why it’s important to find out the ways that best work for you to remain connected to your family, friends, and home.
Establish a schedule to make calling home part of your routine. Video calling might not feel the same as being there in person, but it’s important to be reminded regularly of who is waiting for you when you get back. Apps that let you watch movies together remotely or virtual board games are other great ways to have fun with your loved ones even when you’re miles apart.
Tip 3: Prioritize Your Physical HealthTruck drivers often struggle to remain active or find affordable, healthy food while on the road. Physical well being is a large part of maintaining your mental health, so it’s important to prioritize both to avoid feelings of depression.
Finding time to exercise can be difficult, especially if you’ve been driving all day. However, even a few minutes of exercise throughout the week can help you to feel productive and increase your serotonin. Packing a lunch before hitting the road or planning out where you can find food that will give you energy and nutrients is another important step to keep your mind and body strong.
The power of good sleep also should not be underestimated. Not getting enough rest can have a great impact on your well being, and can also be dangerous when driving for long hours. If your truck also doubles as your bedroom, find ways to make it relaxing and comfortable. Be sure to take breaks whenever you can.
Tip 4: Ask for HelpFinally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Depression can feel isolating, which can be made worse in a career like trucking. Many people struggling with depression might worry that they will be a burden on their loved ones and try to fight on their own. It’s important to remember that your family and friends know you better than anyone, and their support is essential to overcome something as serious as depression.
A lot of people fighting depression also seek medical help, either from their doctor or a mental health professional. Telehealth has made this option increasingly accessible, and can be a great option for those on the road. Visiting a professional, whether virtually or in person, can lead to the development of helpful coping strategies or the opportunity to find medication that could help.
Depression is a serious mental health struggle that has continued to rise in truck drivers across the United States. There’s no easy solution for fighting depression, but it’s important to find ways to relax, connect with your loved ones, and take care of your body and mind.
If you or someone you know are struggling with depression, the best thing you can do is seek help. If you can’t get in touch with your doctor, a great resource is the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The NAMI HelpLine can be reached Monday through Friday, 10 am–6 pm, ET. 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or [email protected].
The post Driving in the Darkness: Tips To Combat Truck Driver Depression appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/Psc2ZdE The truck driving industry offers a variety of opportunities to drivers, from working at large companies to becoming an owner operator. Truck owner operators enjoy the increased flexibility of being their own boss, but being an owner operator also comes with increased responsibility and financial considerations. While being an owner operator may seem like a good fit, it is generally not the best choice for new drivers and even experienced drivers should consider the regulations and costs that will go into operating your own truck/business. If becoming an owner operator is the path you have chosen, then it is important to manage costs to ensure you make the most money possible on every job you take. How Can Truck Owner Operators Manage Costs?
Are you interested in learning more about being an owner operator? Be sure to check out our driver blog for tips for truck owner operators, company drivers, and more. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all of our updates here at Drive My Way. The post Tips for Truck Owner Operators for Managing Costs appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/Psc2ZdE What’s the most interesting place a job has taken you? Igloo City in Alaska? The deserts of the Southwest? The world’s largest truck stop? For some truckers, the answer is easy: “The Caves” under Springfield, Missouri.
The Caves, officially named Springfield Underground, is a 3.2 million square foot temperature and climate controlled warehouse located entirely in a former limestone mine. With over 3 miles of lit roadway, 224 dock doors, and immediate access to I-44 and US-65, a trip to The Caves is an exciting change of pace for any truck driver.
So what’s it like to drive in such a unique place? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Springfield’s ‘Caves’.
A Brief HistoryWhat initially began as a limestone quarry in 1946 was turned into a mine midway through the 1950s. The original Griesemer mine remained active until 2015, even after construction on the first underground warehouse began in 1960.
The first warehouse was built through a partnership between the then-named Griesemer Stone Company and real estate investment firm Security Terminal. For the next five and a half decades, mining and warehouse construction continued to remove over 31 million tons of limestone, while building roads, over 3 miles of railway, and infrastructure that keeps the space at a constant 62 degrees.
A 1994 merger of Griesemer Stone Company, Security Terminal, and General Warehouse Corporation saw the space united under one name: Springfield Underground. Since then, the operation has continued to grow, carving out more area each year to be offered as leasable space, free from exposure to outdoor elements.
What Is It Like Underground?For some drivers, it might be difficult to imagine what it’s really like to drive into an underground warehouse to drop off freight. As subterranean warehouses become increasingly popular across the United States, it’s important to understand the unique properties and benefits of places like Springfield Underground.
One great way to see the inside of the Caves before signing on for a job is to watch online trucking content creators who record their trips to Springfield Underground. Popular creators such as Trucker G have uploaded detailed tours that show what it’s like to deliver freight in the underground warehouse.
TikTok is another option for quick videos that explore delivering freight and navigating the sometimes daunting tunnels of Springfield Underground!
With clear ceiling heights of up to 30 feet and buildings ranging in size from 50,000-400,000 square feet, the Caves are far more spacious than some might think. Springfield Underground also offers two types of warehouse storage, dry and refrigerated. Refrigerated buildings range in temperatures from -20 to 55 degrees, while the thermal mass provided by the limestone combined with energy efficient building construction has resulted in customers’ utility consumption decreasing by 30-50%.
If you’re worried about safety, Springfield Underground’s round-the-clock on-site maintenance ensures that the space remains well lit, clean, and secure. With only two entrances, both requiring card controlled access, and sprinkler systems in every building and common space, Springfield Underground has all the up-to-date facilities of a modern warehouse.
Over 400 drivers visit Springfield Underground daily, experiencing the unique world of subterranean trucking. Like ice road trucking, many truckers see driving on underground roads as an example of the explorative nature at the core of the truck driving industry.
Have you ever driven in the Caves in Springfield? Be sure to reach out to us on social media so we can hear about your adventures, or learn about other exciting places that trucking has taken you. The post The Caves: What Is It Like Driving Underground? appeared first on Drive My Way. https://ift.tt/5KQrhO4 |
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