Marcus Sibley, who owns Sibley Transportation, has committed to funding weekly workout sessions with a personal trainer for all his employees.
BANGOR, Maine — In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the owner of a Bangor-based trucking company is taking steps to enhance the mental and physical well-being of his staff in the months ahead.
Marcus Sibley, the head of Sibley Transportation, announced that he will pay for personal training sessions for each of his employees. Since January, his team has been engaging in optional 45-minute group workouts during work hours on Mondays and Wednesdays, with strong participation from the staff.
Employees, including dispatcher Donald Spiney, have expressed that these sessions alleviate stress. Spiney hopes to lose weight by continuing his attendance at the sessions.
“It does help a lot,” Spiney remarked. “It takes your mind off any problems while you’re sweating and focusing on your workout.”
Sibley highlighted that the trucking industry often fosters an unhealthy lifestyle, with drivers frequently on the road and eating out. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that a commercial truck driver has an average life expectancy of 61 years, which is 16 years less than the national average. Sibley noted that the average age of his drivers is 60.
“Our business is very stressful, managing problems almost constantly,” Sibley explained. “Health issues are often a concern for drivers on the road.”
Sibley mentioned that it’s not unusual for drivers to experience strokes or medical emergencies while driving, creating challenges for dispatchers managing these issues from afar. By offering training to all employees, Sibley aims to retain workers in an aging sector while encouraging them to invest in their own health.
Amanda Morris expressed, “It gives me a lot of confidence.” Employees like Spiney appreciate Sibley’s commitment to their well-being. “They take care of you,” Spiney noted. “A company that looks after you motivates you to work harder, and Sibley Transportation does just that.”
Sibley Transportation is adjacent to Northern Maine Strength, a private gym. This proximity and Sibley’s partnership with gym owner Matthew Mulligan facilitate employees’ ability to attend sessions during work hours.
