Driver Highlight: Dave Taylor
Dave has been with NTB since 2005. He worked for an engineering department in an office for twenty-five years before the office closed, leaving Dave to find a new career. He’d always wanted to drive a truck, so he pursued his CDL.
“I first met Dale Arnold when he came to my school for recruiting.” Dale told the class about NTB and what it’s like to work for the company. Dave was immediately interested because of the schedule. Drivers get five regular days of work and then two days off to be home with their families. This consistent schedule makes it a lot easier to plan life around work. Plus, Dave looked into the reputation of NTB and found that they are known for having stable customers and plenty of work. “I figured they’d be around a while!” Dave said.
Dave had been thinking he would work with one of the companies near his home, but they required experience for drivers before they’d consider hiring anyone. His plan was to work with NTB for a while and get some experience before moving on, but Dave got started driving and never left. “I liked it here so much. I’m happy here. It’s a big enough company to get things done, but it’s small enough to go talk to Henry [the CEO] whenever I want to.”
As far as what he likes about NTB, the regular home time is important, but he also likes the freedom that comes with driving. “They tell me where to go, I figure out how to get there, and then I’m on my own. I don’t have anyone looking over my shoulder. I like the idea of having a job to do and then being left alone to do it.”
Dave is also a trainer for NTB and knows what challenges new drivers. “The biggest thing for people when they get their training for the CDL is that expectations are very high. They have to start out slow. They’re not going to earn big money right away. You make mistakes and even go to the wrong places. It happens, and the thing is, you can’t get discouraged.” He says that you will always have to learn new cities and new areas, and get accustomed to being gone for five days. Dave also adds, “If any driver has ever told you he hasn’t been lost, he’s lying to you! I guarantee it!” If drivers get used to the lifestyle, have a supportive family that can adjust to the schedule, and want to make it work, Dave says they will do well.
When he isn’t working, Dave likes to read, and spend time with his five granddaughters. He and his wife enjoy riding their Goldwing motorcycle, and "attempting" to train their new puppy. He also plays golf and likes using his HAM radio at home, and as tool while on the road.