Covenant Logistics honors the exceptional achievements of Don Lord, a seasoned driver who has reached a significant milestone in his career: 3 million miles of accident-free driving. This impressive feat places him among the elite in the trucking industry, as he becomes only the second driver in Covenant’s history to achieve such a record. To put this into perspective, 3 million miles is equivalent to circling the earth 120 times.
From Humble Beginnings to a Stellar Career
Don Lord’s journey into the trucking world began under unique circumstances. Despite never having left Florida before, Lord took on the challenge of becoming a truck driver to provide for his family. At 73 years old, he reflects on his decision to switch from commercial fishing, a career he left due to increasing regulations in Florida. “Truck driving was the quickest way I could get to making money and providing for my family,” Lord shared during a stop in Texas.
The transition to truck driving, however, came with its own set of sacrifices. Over nearly three decades, Lord has traveled across the country on over-the-road routes, delivering essential goods. This demanding job has meant missing many important milestones at home in Grant, Florida.
“I missed 23 of my wife’s birthdays. I missed 23 of our anniversaries. I missed 23 Thanksgivings, 23 Christmases,” Lord reflected, his voice filled with nostalgia.
Family and Trucking: A Legacy of Safety
Since joining Covenant Logistics in 1996, Don Lord has seen many changes in the industry, allowing him more time at home. His son, Jason, now drives alongside him and has also achieved an impressive milestone of 2 million accident-free miles. “We sit and talk under the shade,” Lord shared. “We drink coffee in the mornings.”
Covenant Logistics, which operates a fleet of over 1,900 drivers, has publicly recognized Lord’s dedication and commitment to safety. In honor of his achievements, the company awarded him $7,500 and customized his truck to reflect the iconic blue of a Peterbilt he once drove. Misti Olszewski, Vice President of Safety at Covenant, praised Lord’s unwavering dedication, placing him in the “top echelon” of drivers.
“I think Don is just an employee anyone would want to have,” Olszewski affirmed. “It’s his spirit; you can just feel how much he cares about people, his family, his job. He takes such pride in his work every single day. I wish I had a hundred of him.”
The Journey of 3 Million Miles: A Commitment to Safety
Reaching 3 million accident-free miles is a testament to Don Lord’s dedication and commitment to safety. He understands that even a small incident could reset his milestone, a reality that is always on his mind.
Embracing Change and Reflecting on a Lifetime of Driving
The switch from commercial fishing to truck driving has had a profound impact on Lord’s life. While he found joy in fishing, he knew that trucking was essential for securing his family’s future. “There were times I didn’t want to come back out here,” he admitted. “Even though I enjoyed the job, I hated being gone so long.”
Now, with a schedule that allows for more family time and the opportunity to revisit his passion for fishing, Lord reflects on the lessons he’s learned from years on the road. He even applies these lessons to towing his boat, saying, “You stay on your toes and watch what you do and put to work what you’ve learned.”
Misti Olszewski commended Lord’s cautious and vigilant approach to driving, highlighting that his mindful journey is what has kept him safe on the highways.
Source: FRIEGHTWAVES
Image: Covenant Logistics
