Recognized as one of the 2023 Drivers of the Year by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), Sholar’s journey began in 1992 in iron construction in Houston. After earning his CDL, he worked for carriers in Alabama and Oklahoma before joining Maverick Transportation 26 years ago. He resides in Doddridge, Arkansas, near the Louisiana border.
Sholar, with three decades of driving experience, doesn’t see an end to his career anytime soon.
“I guess I won’t retire until it stops being fun,” he said. “I don’t feel like I’m working. I’m having a great time. I can’t imagine not doing what I’m doing.”
Scholar has seen many changes in the industry through the years; he noted the increased level of traffic and advancements in the trucks themselves. Unlike some drivers, he embraces electronic logging devices (ELDs) and highlights traffic as a major challenge.
“(There’s) a lot more,” he said. “Trucks are also a lot more sophisticated, and they are easier to drive. (With ELDs) I get the same mileage, it improves my work ethic, and I get a lot more rest.”
Initially drawn to trucking for travel, Sholar’s perspective on his favorite part of the profession has evolved.
“One of my favorite things about driving is that I get to go to shippers and receivers and see what they do with the product I’m hauling. I’ve always found that fascinating,” he said.
Scholar has also worked as a driver trainer but stepped away from it during the COVID-19 pandemic. He played a crucial role in shaping Maverick’s training program, earning accolades such as Driver of the Month in 2016 and being a Trainer of the Year Award finalist.
“I love teaching. I love showing people how to do things easier and right,” he said.
Having served on Maverick’s Drivers Advisory Council, Sholar emphasizes dedication, doing one’s best, and avoiding shortcuts for success and safety.
“(Driving is) a lifestyle, not a 9-5 job. It won’t make you a millionaire, but you’ll make a good living,” he said. “Driving is a job you can start and work until you don’t want to work anymore.”
Remaining humble about his TCA Driver of the Year recognition, Sholar attributes it to the Maverick team’s nomination and video showcasing his career. Grateful for the support during his cancer treatment, Sholar appreciates the acknowledgment received at various industry events.
“Sometime later, they called and said I had won. I thought they were playing with me!” he said. “I don’t really know why I won. I’m nothing special. I do my job the best I can. I’ve always said, if you’re going to do something, do it well.”
Source: The Trucker
