Tyler Woolley’s Passionate Trucking Career
Tyler Woolley refers to his trucking profession as an honest livelihood doing something he loves. Operating out of Wyanet, Illinois, situated along the renowned Hennepin Canal, Woolley transports eggs and other temperature-sensitive products for Arteberry Transportation.
His Impressive Rig
Woolley’s gleaming red 2016 Peterbilt Model 389 glider, coupled with a matching 53-foot chrome refrigerated trailer, is prominently displayed on Arteberry’s website. It features an extended frame, a 20-inch chrome bumper, stainless steel battery boxes, and Hogebuilt half fenders. The Great Dane trailer is equipped with a Carrier refrigeration unit and spread axles, including what his two-year-old daughter Ray affectionately calls a “shiny hiney” (chrome cargo doors).
The Importance of Cleanliness
Woolley considers keeping his truck immaculate as a point of pride. “I always aim to be clean, even during winter,” he shared. He humorously noted that at times, he checks the mail before his wife to retrieve bank statements, so she remains unaware of how frequently he washes the rig—sometimes four times a week if he’s been on wet or salty roads.
A Lifelong Dream Realized
Woolley’s journey in trucking began in childhood. “I grew up riding in trucks with my dad and grandpa,” he recalled. In school, he often chose truck-related projects and, upon turning 18, obtained his CDL with his father’s help, starting his hauling career while still in high school. His early experiences included agricultural work, transporting grain and livestock, before transitioning to asphalt and “hot rock.” He eventually found his niche in temperature-controlled trucking when he began working for Del Monte in Mendota, Illinois.
Thriving in Refrigerated Loads
Having been with Arteberry for seven years, Woolley expresses genuine satisfaction in his role. Primarily, he transports eggs for Amish communities in Missouri and Colorado, along with other less-than-truckload deliveries. Unlike some drivers who dislike handling refrigerated freight, he enjoys the interaction it offers. “I take pleasure in breaking down the loads and visiting familiar locations; it fosters personal connections with clients,” he explained.
Family and Future Aspirations
Woolley’s wife, Breanna, has a trucking background as well, but adapting to his over-the-road schedule was challenging at first. However, she now assists with maintaining the truck. Their son Brayden is following in his father’s footsteps, showcasing an interest in trucking as well. Woolley loves camping with his family during downtime, but ultimately, he envisions continuing his trucking career for years to come. “I wouldn’t want to trade my worst day trucking for anyone’s best day at their nine-to-five,” he affirmed.
Passing on Trucking Values
Woolley is proud of his children’s budding interest in trucking, especially Brayden. “I feel a sense of what my grandfather and father must have felt watching me pursue this,” he remarked. Regardless of how the trucking industry evolves, he is confident that his children will embrace it with the same commitment and pride he has always demonstrated.
