Jeff Runions: Embracing the Future of Trucking
Nearly 40 years ago, Jeff Runions embarked on his trucking career with dreams of achieving the American dream. Over time, he has experienced the industry in various roles, including independent owner-operator, full-time company driver, parts manager, and trucking depot manager. Now, as a developer of autonomous trucks, Runions, at 58, witnesses the evolution of a $700 billion industry amidst a competitive race among Silicon Valley giants like Uber and Google aimed at being the first to deliver self-driving trucks on the roads.
“We were like the cowboys of the old days, doing our own thing. We owned our own trucks, trying to make our own lives…”
Runions describes the development of autonomous trucks as groundbreaking, likening it to the moon landing. He expresses amazement at the idea of a semi-truck driving itself. Currently, he works for a startup named Starsky Robotics, which has a unique approach: while other companies target fully autonomous vehicles, Starsky focuses on creating trucks that can drive autonomously on highways while allowing remote drivers to take over in urban settings from control rooms outfitted like arcade consoles.
As a safety driver, Runions is responsible for monitoring the truck’s operation, prepared to intervene when necessary. His testing sessions range from an hour and a half to up to eight hours. He also collaborates with programmers to enhance the truck’s sensors and software, occasionally offering suggestions based on his extensive experience. Though he isn’t an engineer, Runions feels included in the development team thanks to his nearly four decades in the trucking industry.
Runions initially enjoyed the independence of being an owner-operator in the mid-80s, relishing his freedom and the camaraderie of fellow truckers. However, over time, the demanding lifestyle became exhausting, leading to health concerns and family stresses. After deciding to leave the independent path, he worked for a commercial trucking company but found the long-term commitments and hours taxing. Ultimately, seeking a change, he found himself testing self-driving technology.
Since beginning his new role in early 2017, Runions has faced skepticism regarding the safety of autonomous vehicles. He understands public trepidation surrounding the technology and finds fulfillment in contributing to its development, ensuring safety is prioritized. Although some fellow truckers express concerns about job loss due to automation, Runions notes the high demand for truck drivers, believing that the industry will continue to need human labor alongside advancing technology. He envisions a future where remote driving jobs can provide better work-life balance for truckers.
“If you can get to where you have a regular 40-hour work week and be home for your family, you can’t ask for more than that,” Runions states, emphasizing the potential for a better quality of life for drivers. “That’s like a regular life. A lot of drivers don’t have that now.”
NPR’s Emily Sullivan produced this story for digital, with NPR’s Eliza Dennis assisting in its broadcast production.
