“What’s a simple pleasure that makes your day on the road better?”

Here’s what real Truck drivers had to say.

When a Kid Hits the Arm Pump
Some memories never get old. Top fan Adam Woxland said, “A kid doing the arm pump.”
Jeff Miller added, “The arm pump — I saw two in one day just last week! First time that’s ever happened for me!”
And Mike Mueller kept it fun: “Always gonna be the fist pump from kids.”

Finding a Place to Park or Rest
Evan Tom Lehr put it simply: “A parking spot in the truck stop.”
Slim Gooden said, “Being able to find a parking spot in the Truck Stop with a decent diner in or nearby to enjoy a good meal, 10-4?”
Luke J Arris and LaNelle Smith both called out “a good shower.”

Starting the Day Right
Steve Mock said a “breakfast sandwich and a Diet Coke” gets the job done.
Randy Paiz shared his go-to: “Coffee & a cherry kolache from Weikel’s in LaGrange, Texas.”
Jaime Saravia sticks with “honey bun and Pepsi,” and Joyceandmiles Hopkins enjoys “getting your thermos filled with fresh coffee for free.”
Anand Singh named his ideal combo: “A clean bathroom, hot fresh coffee, cheap cigarettes, and very low diesel price.”

Getting a Break at the End of the Shift
Thornell Funches looks forward to “not dealing with folks when I am parked for the eve… nice and quiet.”
James Hilliker values “getting to relax in my motel room after driving all night.”
Tom Tomas simply said, “Shower and coffee……”

The Companions That Make the Miles Easier
Jim Worthington said it best: “Just cruising with my best bud.”
Wade Kerr added, “My dog.”
Christina Trask loves seeing “dogs looking out of the window.”
Michael A Hamilton looks forward to “talking to my girls on the phone,” and Marion D. Hill said, “Phoning home.”

No Traffic, No Problems
Matt Cunningham shared: “No lanes closed.”
Rachel Tatum appreciated “less traffic,” and Thomas Cass echoed that with “No traffic.”
Norm Howard kept it classic: “Fair weather and open road.”
Moira Elliott reminded us what drivers see daily: “Looking at all the natural diversity our amazing country has to offer — desert, mountains, coastlines, prairie, grasslands, forests. We live in a beautiful land.”

Tunes, Books, and Simple Escapes
Dave Hicks keeps it old-school with “1950s and 60s American Rock and Roll on the radio.”
Allen Sammons listens to “audiobook or good music,” and Kevin Harrington said, “My tunes.”
Kathleen Littlefield keeps a “good book” nearby.

Doing the Job with Purpose
Some drivers look at the bigger picture.
William Chandler said: “Knowing that I help feed thousands of Americans that day.”

Other Unexpected Joys
Deedee Saferight said she enjoys “visiting my favorite welcome center in the mountains of North Carolina.”
Theodore Morgan shared a quiet favorite: “Walking barefooted in the grass.”
Robert Bartleson said simply: “Anything after midnight.”
Don White expressed hope: “To be able to drive again.”

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Captivated by a Semi-Truck

For Chris Clardy, the trucking dream began when he was just 12 years old. Visiting the Mt. Comfort Air Show with his family, his attention wasn’t on the soaring planes as one might expect. Instead, he was drawn to one exhibit — a semi-truck that stood as a symbol of strength and connection. The polished machine mesmerized young Chris, sparking an early desire to one day become a part of the trucking world.

It was also at the air show where he first came across C1 Truck Driver Training, the school that would later be instrumental in fulfilling his aspirations. Although the seeds of a dream were planted that day, life had a more complex road in store for him.

A Life-Changing Gesture

Not long after the air show, Chris was dealt a challenging hand. He faced severe medical hardships that put his young life on pause and left him hospitalized. For a child brimming with dreams, such obstacles were daunting.

But during these difficult times, a small but profoundly impactful gesture instilled hope in Chris. Chris Welch, the owner of C1 Truck Driver Training, sent him a heartfelt note. Included in the letter were words of encouragement and a promise that stayed with Chris for years. Welch assured him, saying, “Once you’re well enough, you’ll be treated to a ride in a semi-truck at our school.”

This promise wasn’t just about a truck ride; it symbolized belief in Chris’s potential and gave him a goal to hold on to.

Coming Back to a Dream

Fast forward nearly two decades. Despite life’s twists and turns, Chris never forgot the promise that had meant so much to him. When the time was right, he returned to C1 Truck Driver Training, determined to finally achieve the dream he had nurtured since childhood.

Chris arrived prepared, with his CDL (Commercial Driver License) permit and DOT (Department of Transportation) physical certification already in place. He wasn’t just chasing a dream — he was committed to making it reality.

With laser focus and tireless determination, Chris excelled during his training. He graduated as the top student in his class and passed his CDL test on the first attempt. His hard work earned him his first professional trucking role at PAM Transport, marking the successful completion of his first major milestone. But the story didn’t end there.

From Employee to Business Owner

For many, achieving childhood dreams offers a satisfying conclusion. But for Chris Clardy, it was the beginning of a greater mission. Driven by ambition, he continued to expand his horizons within the trucking industry.

Today, Chris not only drives trucks — he owns a fleet of them. Transitioning from employee to employer, he built a successful business that now provides opportunities for other aspiring drivers. His experience and insights make him a mentor to others, proof that success in trucking goes far beyond hauling freight.

Chris’s story exemplifies the ripple effect of quality education, resilience, and the right support system. Thanks to the foundational training he received at C1 Truck Driver Training and the mentorship that guided him, he is making a lasting impact in the trucking community.

Through programs offered by CVTA’s extensive member network, countless individuals like Chris Clardy are able to turn aspirations into achievements.

Image Source: CVTA
Source: The Trucker

The post A Promise That Drove a Dream: Chris Clardy’s Story with CVTA appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Wearing Two Hats: Army Reserve and NFI Trucker

Kacy’s journey into transportation began soon after high school when she made the bold decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2019. The discipline she learned during Basic Combat Training shaped her approach to every challenge, whether she’s in uniform or behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler.

“I joined right out of high school,” Kacy remembers. Her schedule is a balancing act between drill weekends and long drives, but Kacy says she’s adapted well: “Sometimes it’s hard to balance, but I feel like I’m so used to it because I joined (the Army) at such an early age. It’s just part of me now.”

Her dual life as an Army Reservist and a professional truck driver with NFI shows how the skills from military service translate seamlessly to civilian life, especially within the logistics industry.

Discovering Life on the Road

It was a friend in the trucking industry who first introduced Kacy to the idea of driving big rigs. “He would bring me to work with him, and I was always fascinated with how it works,” she says. Watching the ins and outs of trucking sparked her interest in pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The transition wasn’t without nerves. “I was a little bit scared at first, because I’m a small female,” Kacy shares. “But I went through basic training and made it through — and I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I was like, ‘Well, I’m going to try.’ And now, here I am!”

That determination powered her through CDL training. She started as a yard jockey, spent time with another trucking company, and then, thanks to a recommendation from a friend, officially joined NFI—as well as the SheDrives NFI community, a dedicated space for women in trucking.

Empowerment Through SheDrives NFI

Now, with over two years as a full-time professional truck driver, Kacy has found a supportive workplace culture through SheDrives. “In my previous trucking job, there were only three women, including me,” she points out. NFI’s commitment to female drivers has made a big difference, creating more opportunities for women in trucking and mentorship within the industry.

“They’re friendly. I can talk to anybody in the office,” she says, highlighting the approachable and supportive team environment at NFI.

Kacy beams with pride when she talks about life on the road: “It feels great to be a truck driver,” she says. “I show up to the stores (in my rig) and a lot of people look at me like, ‘Are YOU a truck driver? Oh my gosh, you’re doing this!” Her presence in the field serves as a visual reminder that women belong in every part of the logistics industry.

Overcoming Roadblocks

Like many professional drivers, Kacy deals with challenges that go beyond the basics of driving. Navigating heavy vehicles requires a unique skill set and a great deal of patience, not just for the truck but also for other motorists. “They don’t understand (a truck’s) stopping distance and how (much space we need) to make turns,” she explains, pointing to frequent misunderstandings from drivers of smaller vehicles.

Kacy’s experiences behind the wheel underscore the importance of good training and a level-headed approach—qualities she now brings to new female truck drivers through mentorship and example.

Guidance for Women Entering Trucking

What advice does Kacy have for other women interested in joining the world of trucking? Her answer is clear: be patient and open-minded. “Listen to all the advice other truck drivers have to give. Don’t rush. Don’t let fear take over,” she says. She also cautions new drivers not to compare themselves to others. “Also, don’t compare yourself to other truck drivers; do what works for you.”

Kacy’s journey is proof that with the right attitude, determination, and community, women can excel in careers traditionally dominated by men.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Kacy H. sets a shining example for both her fellow Reservists and for the next generation of women eager to become truck drivers. She’s made it clear that support networks like SheDrives NFI, strong mentors, and a belief in your goals are crucial for success in the world of logistics.

Want to know more about the SheDrives NFI program and how it supports female truck drivers? Visit NFI online or connect with them on social platforms to join the conversation.

Image Source: NFI
Source: The Trucker

The post Spotlight on Kacy H.: Army Reservist and SheDrives NFI Trailblazer appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

From Art to the Open Road

Jo Lynn “JJ” Kelley’s career path was anything but conventional. Starting out in art and accounting, Kelley decided to take a leap into the trucking world to combine her entrepreneurial spirit with her love for travel. Her ultimate goal? To spread kindness and joy wherever she goes. Reflecting on her spiritual outlook, Kelley shares, “I absolutely loved driving that big rig all over the United States. Throughout the miles, trials, and tribulations since entering this industry, my spirituality has deepened to a complete and unwavering reliance upon God and all His promises in the Bible. With God, all things are possible.”

400,000 Miles and Counting

Now in her sixth year as a professional driver, Kelley has logged over 400,000 safe miles—a milestone she attributes to her faith and dedication. “I may drive an 18-wheeler, but in my cab, God is truly in charge of that 19th wheel,” she expresses.

Finding Her Path in Trucking

Kelley kickstarted her trucking career with Schneider National, driving long-haul routes that spanned 47 states in the U.S. Her decision to join Schneider was based on the company’s federal safety rating, diverse freight options, and acceptance of new drivers fresh out of trucking school. Over time, she mastered skills in dry van hauling, tanker transport, flatbed operations, and even teaming.

Transforming Challenges Into Compassion

The early days of Kelley’s career weren’t without their difficulties. At one point, she felt overwhelmed and considered giving up. Yet, through prayer and reflection, she realized the power of stepping outside her own struggles to help others. Kelley began creating wallet-sized cards with uplifting messages, leaving them at truck stops and rest areas for anyone who might need a reminder of their worth. This act of kindness sparked a larger initiative, complete with $5 coffee gift cards and trivia games that encouraged recipients to “pay it forward.” Her employer was so impressed that they supported her efforts by contributing more gift cards to expand the campaign.

Blending Art and Trucking

With a knack for creativity that she honed during her artistic career, Kelley penned two interactive trucking books, Trucking with JJ: Volume 1 and Volume 2. These photo-based books include short stories and QR codes linking to video content, offering readers an inspiring glimpse into life on the road. Both volumes are available to download for free.

A New Chapter with Walmart

After years of long-haul driving, Kelley transitioned to Walmart’s private fleet, drawn to their emphasis on safety and work-life balance. Now a regional driver, she appreciates the home time and the supportive community of experienced professionals. “The walls in all of our distribution centers are packed with plaques of 500,000-mile, 1 million-mile, 3 million-mile, and higher driver careers,” Kelley noted. “I feel humbled and honored to be among such a stable and safety-driven family of truckers.”

Through her role at Walmart, Kelley also became an integral part of WIT’s outreach efforts. She drives the WITney Educational Trailer to various events, operating the truck-driving simulator inside and inspiring visitors to explore opportunities in the industry.

Championing Diversity in Trucking

Kelley is passionate about spreading the word on how trucking can offer a rewarding career path for people from all walks of life. The hiring age is simply 18+, and there are no gender, racial, educational, or spiritual boundaries. “Virtually every tangible item has been on a truck at one point in time, so the world will always need safe professional drivers.”

Faith as a Driving Force

Reflecting on her journey, Kelley acknowledges the challenges she’s faced but credits her faith for grounding her. “My trucking career path has seen me in tears, anger, doubts, and confusion,” she explained. “God always restores me to a peaceful inner joy with new insights on navigating a life of abundance that I never dreamed—or perhaps, never allowed myself to dream of.”

Life Beyond the Road

When she’s not behind the wheel, Kelley resides on an award-winning equestrian horse farm nestled in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Though retired from her artistic endeavors—including painting, photography, and blogging—she continues to seek out new hobbies, experiences, and friendships. With a life brimming with adventure and gratitude, Kelley remains an extraordinary example of the warmth and resilience that Women in Trucking celebrates.

Jo Lynn “JJ” Kelley’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Through her efforts on and off the road, she’s leaving an indelible mark on the trucking industry.

Source: The Trucker

Image: WIT

The post Jo Lynn ‘JJ’ Kelley: Women in Trucking’s February Member of the Month appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Songs That Keep Us Moving

Kristy Stout Good shared her love for “Little Saint Nick” by The Beach Boys—a cheerful classic that’s perfect for sunny winter drives. Ed Harris added some rock ‘n’ roll to the mix with Bruce Springsteen’s version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” a holiday anthem that’s stood the test of time.

Humor on the Highway

Truckers are known for their sense of humor, and that showed in the picks from Kyle Yadon, who mentioned “Merry Blah Blah Blah” by Lordi and “The Night Santa Went Crazy” by Weird Al Yankovic. Daniel Cartwright and Diane Botts couldn’t resist the laughs brought on by “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.”

Songs That Inspire

Linda Deptuch DeRosa’s pick, “Thankful” by Josh Groban, offered a moment of reflection and gratitude during the season. Michael Anderson’s love for “Little Drummer Boy,” which he often whistles while driving, captures the quiet beauty of the holidays.

Rockin’ Holiday Vibes

For those who like a little edge in their playlists, George Clemens highlighted Stryper’s version of “Winter Wonderland,” while Joe Zemlicka mentioned AC/DC’s “Mistress for Christmas.” These picks prove that holiday music can have a little attitude too.

Nostalgic Favorites

Classics were a popular choice among drivers. Steven Clark’s favorite, “Silent Night,” and Cheryl Kleinsak Stewart’s tie between “Silent Night” and “The Little Drummer Boy” are timeless staples. Jennifer Roger’s love for Burl Ives’ “Holly Jolly Christmas” and Greg Edwards’ pick of “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole bring that warm, nostalgic feeling.

Unexpected Gems

Our trucking community didn’t hold back on surprising us with their unique picks. Gábor Hirsch’s choice of “Black Sabbath’s Paranoid” and Raymond Desilets’ nod to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” added some unexpected twists. El Pelon’s shoutout to “La Puerta Negra” by Los Tigres del Norte brought a cultural flair to the mix.

What’s On Your Playlist?

The songs shared by our community reflect the diversity and spirit of truck drivers everywhere. Whether it’s rocking out, sharing a laugh, or enjoying the classics, music brings us together on the road and beyond.

Join our community on Facebook here to connect with fellow drivers, share your playlists, and stay inspired.

The post Favorite Holiday Songs Shared by Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Take Andrea McFarland, a standout leader at NFI, whose journey into trucking was influenced by her father’s 30-year career. Growing up, Andrea spent countless hours at NFI’s Lawnside and Vineland shops, absorbing lessons from her father’s dedication to the trade. These moments sparked her passion for the industry, leading her to pursue her own path in trucking.

Andrea’s story is far from unique in the trucking world. Family legacies like hers create a foundation for many careers, whether through direct involvement with parents who drive or work in logistics, or simply through the values they pass down. Her memories of assisting her father on nighttime road calls and observing his connections with drivers highlight how family traditions can inspire future generations to carry the torch.

Mentorship in Trucking: Learning From the Best

Beyond family ties, mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping careers in trucking. Veterans of the industry often serve as guides for new drivers or logistics professionals, offering insight, advice, and encouragement. These mentors help newcomers navigate challenges, build confidence, and find their footing in an industry that can be both demanding and rewarding.

At companies like NFI, leaders like Andrea McFarland embody the spirit of mentorship. In her role, she not only draws on the lessons from her father but also gives back to her team, creating an environment where others feel supported and valued. It’s this sense of community—passed down from one generation to the next—that helps the industry thrive.

Women Leading the Way

Family and mentorship have been critical for women breaking into the trucking industry, an area historically dominated by men. Andrea’s story exemplifies this evolution. From following in her father’s footsteps to attending the Women in Trucking annual conference, she represents a growing movement of women proving that success in logistics is achievable for everyone.

The trucking industry has come a long way in welcoming women into leadership roles, but there’s still progress to be made. Stories like Andrea’s show that with support, passion, and determination, barriers can be broken, and new standards can be set.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As the industry evolves, stories of family legacies and mentorship will continue to inspire the next generation of drivers and logistics professionals. Whether it’s through passing down a love for the road or guiding newcomers through their first challenges, these connections ensure that trucking remains a vibrant and thriving community.

Want to hear Andrea’s story in her own words? She sat down with She Drives on Radio Nemo to discuss her journey, her breakthroughs at NFI, and her vision for the future of trucking. Listen to the full episode here.

The post Generations Behind the Wheel: Family Legacies and Mentorship in Trucking appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Joann’s story began with an unexpected shift: after over 30 years as a flight attendant, the impact of COVID-19 brought her career to a halt. Instead of slowing down, Joann chose to pivot and take on a fresh challenge by earning her Class A CDL. Reflecting on this decision, she’s found a new passion on the road that’s both fulfilling and adventurous.

Working with NFI Industries has offered Joann the balance she hoped for, allowing her to be home more often after years of non-stop travel. “95% of our drivers go home every night,” Joann notes, highlighting how she values her time with family and her pets after her time on the road. She also appreciates the flexibility and support that NFI provides, making her feel truly at home in the trucking community.

For anyone considering a career switch, Joann’s advice is simple: “Go for it. It’s exciting.” She believes life skills like time management and setting goals transfer well to trucking, and that the industry has a place for anyone eager to make a fresh start. Joann’s journey shines a light on how adaptable, determined individuals can thrive in trucking, inspiring other women to explore the open road.

To hear Joann’s story in her own words, check out the full interview on She Drives with Radio Nemo here.

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