Driver Alan Wood: His Take on Five Years with Wil-Trans

February 20, 2002 to February 20, 2007 — that’s five years of learning, reacting, saving, driving, waiting, seeing places you just read about, and doing things the ordinary person just doesn’t have the time for. But mostly it’s doing what I want to do and having fun doing it.

I just received a $10,000 longevity bonus from Wil-Trans for five years of continuous service. I started at Wil-Trans as a trainee, graduating from truck driving school. After training, I stayed on for two years as a company driver, which was all about learning the business. For the next three years, I was a lease operator, which helped me fine-tune the business aspects of an ever-changing industry and operate my own business profitably.

Finally, after completing my five years with Wil-Trans, I have just bought my own truck, and although that comes with more challenges, the fun continues.

In order to get the longevity bonus, five years of continuous service with no interruptions except for allocated time off is required. The first three years were very easy, as new people were helping me learn what I needed to do to succeed. I had a strong will to learn but was having fun at the same time. You have to like what you do or it will take away your desire.

During my fourth year at Wil Trans, I married my long time friend Debra, who is now part of the fun riding in the truck with me. I can honestly say that the most help comes from the people who surround you. Everyone at Wil-Trans has helped me in one way or another. I know that they are there to talk with, listen, and help me learn more.

Year five has been a very exciting one. About six months ago, I was offered a chance to buy my own truck. With the help of Darrel Wilson, owner of Wil-Trans, on March 7, 2007 that dream was realized. I am still going to be with Wil-Trans, but as an owner operator, and I will continue to learn and still have fun.

Everyone at Wil-Trans has helped me from day one — recruiter Mike San Paolo, Rhonda Thornton in safety, and trainer Larry Burt. There is fleet manager Darrel Lake who has also become a good friend who has helped me with decisions in many ways. Also, there are those behind the scenes, guys in the shop who will answer any question and Kathy and Dawn in accounting and leasing who keep financial success in my eyes.

I think Darrel Wilson said it best, “When I’m still under Wil-Trans’ umbrella, I know I have all the answers within reach.”

Those are the people who made five years easy and the following years just as easy. I’m very proud to be in this industry and very proud to be in the Wil-Trans family.

For more information on this exciting opportunity, call 888-WIL-TRANS. Wil-Trans can offer the assistance to make your dream of driving your own truck come true. Wil-Trans is where owner operators call home.

• [advertisment]