Covenant-Landair was honored with the Partner-Level Supplier Award, John Deere’s highest supplier distinction, and the 2024 Sustainability Award. These awards underscore the company’s exceptional commitment to providing top-tier logistics solutions and advancing sustainable practices.

Excellence in Supply Chain Performance

The prestigious Partner-Level Status comes from John Deere’s Achieving Excellence program, which rigorously evaluates its suppliers on key performance criteria, including quality, delivery metrics, technical support, and cost efficiency. This honor confirms Covenant-Landair’s vital role in enhancing John Deere’s global supply chain operations and reliability.

Shaping the Future of Green Logistics

The Sustainability Truckload Carrier of the Year Award recognizes suppliers who excel in reducing environmental impact while sustaining high service levels. Covenant-Landair stood out for its proactive adoption of energy-efficient strategies, efforts to minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and its strong focus on driving innovation in sustainable logistics.

This dual recognition highlights Covenant-Landair’s operational excellence and reinforces its commitment to setting new standards in logistics performance and environmental responsibility.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Landair

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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

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