For Truck Driver Appreciation Week, we’re highlighting some of the incredible drivers that keep our business in motion. Keep reading to learn more about David, a 6-axle dump truck driver.
How did you get started in this industry?
I’ve been driving CDL for going on two years now. I used to drive school buses; that’s how I got my CDL. To those who feel a CDL is not worth getting: it is. It’s a good money maker, it’s enjoyable. I got lucky to start with Angel Brothers (now Texas Materials). I can say I enjoy my job driving every day. I’ve gotten to know a lot of people. We all get along and work together as a group and help each other.
What has your work experience been like at Texas Materials?
I drive anywhere from 8+ hours a day. The vehicle I drive is called a quad, which means it has three extra tiles to balance out the load. I carry anywhere from 21-22 tons at a time.
I enjoy driving; it takes care of me. You have to be open to different types of work, for example sometimes our routes take us of town. I’m up for anything. This is a good company and it’s been good to me. As drivers, we’re not here to outbid each other, the key is how we work together and how we do things together. Doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, everyone is a part of the team here. So I plan on being with Texas Materials for a long time.
Any advice for those considering a career in driving?
I would definitely recommend driving for Texas Materials – the pay is good and so are the people. No matter how old or young you are, if you’re able to get your CDL, please do. When you join, you are given your truck and you take care of it; it’s your moneymaker. If anything needs maintenance, it’s up to you to alert the mechanics and the team. At the end of the day, if you take care of your truck, it’s going to take care of you.
The biggest thing about being a driver is: be cautious and careful. That’s what your outside mirrors are for. Sometimes people can cut you off, tailgating, you always have to be checking your mirrors. Always stay in the center lane, it helps. If you’re exiting, try to get in the lane 2-3 exits before you need to get off. Always follow the four-second rule when you’re behind someone so that you can avoid a crash if traffic comes to a sudden stop.
At Texas Materials, everyone expects you to be safe coming to work and going home. And if you treat others as you would like to be treated, regardless of whether they’re having a good or a bad day, it’s going to help you succeed anywhere you go.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Abilene, Texas. I’ve worked all my life ever since I was 16 years old. I’m married and I have 28 grandkids. I enjoy life, and I love Texas. Some of my hobbies are fly fishing, dove and quail hunting, and going to rodeos and stock shows. I actually used to compete in rodeos when I was in high school. Being the country boy that I am, I wear a cowboy hat and boots every day. I’ve never owned a pair of tennis shoes. I’ll live and die as a cowboy.
If you want to join the team, you can check out careers at CRH & Texas Materials Group here.