Finding Her Calling in Trucking
Melissa Williams discovered her passion when her employer encouraged her to pursue a commercial driver’s license. Since then, she has embraced the life of an independent owner-operator, transforming the road into her workplace. This newfound freedom allows her to select her desired routes and visit various locations. Senior Editor Victoria Kickham recently interviewed Williams on DC Velocity’s “Logistics Matters” podcast, and here are some highlights from their discussion.
Becoming a Truck Driver
Q: The demand for truck drivers is frequent in industry discussions, and numerous initiatives aim to recruit and retain talent. As someone who transitioned to trucking, how long have you been driving, and what led you to this career?
A: I consider myself relatively new to driving, with about three and a half years of experience. I was working at FedEx Express at the Minneapolis airport when a truck driving position opened. They asked if I was interested in driving, to which I playfully responded, “You do know I drive a Mini Cooper?” They laughed, and I thought, “Why not give it a shot?” I believe in trying different things to discover what you love, and even if I didn’t like it, I’d gain more skills for the future.
Life as an Independent Owner-Operator
Q: Now that you are an independent owner-operator, can you share details about your job, including how you book loads and manage your business?
A: I use the Vorto 5F OTR platform to book loads. I choose my departure date, starting city and state, and decide how long I want to be on the road, whether it’s a week or two. The platform offers me routes that align with my preferences, optimizing for the best-paying options and minimizing deadhead miles, thus maximizing my income.
Benefits of Independence
Q: That’s definitely a key advantage of being your own boss. What other benefits does this provide regarding how you run your operations?
A: I have the freedom to avoid cities or states I’m uncomfortable with. This flexibility enables me to visit my 95-year-old grandfather in North Carolina or my younger sons in Arizona whenever I want. I can also take time off to spend a week with them if I choose, thanks to being an owner-operator and the supportive nature of my business.
Surprises and Challenges in Trucking
Q: When you chose to enroll in a commercial driver’s license course at FedEx, did you anticipate enjoying the trucking industry as much as you do now? Were there any surprises in your new career?
A: Initially, I hadn’t considered truck driving despite my grandfather having done it. I started with local work but soon realized it wasn’t for me. I wanted to explore new places while working long hours, and trucking offers a variety of options that cater to different preferences. However, over-the-road trucking isn’t suited for everyone; living alone away from home can be challenging.
Advice for Aspiring Truck Drivers
Q: Despite these challenges, it sounds like you advocate for a trucking career to women and anyone attracted to the freedom of long-haul driving. What advice do you have for those interested in the field?
A: Trucking is an ideal field for anyone passionate about it due to its diversity—there are multiple avenues, from flatbed to regional driving. The most crucial piece of advice is to understand your limits and boundaries and to stand firm in them. I recommend starting as a company driver to learn the industry before becoming an owner-operator. It’s important to understand your truck and surround yourself with knowledgeable individuals in the industry.
Raising Awareness in the Industry
Q: Why is it essential to continue highlighting the trucking profession’s significance?
A: Almost everything we use has been transported by truck, and while people are recognizing that, they often don’t know the challenges we face daily to provide that service. The toll long-haul driving can take is significant—sometimes we can go months without seeing our families. A bit of societal kindness can truly make a difference in our lives.
