Driver Highlight: Matt Parnell
Matt was working part-time at a tire shop before he came to NTB. He’d always wanted to be a driver because he grew up traveling and likes being on the road. He decided to get his CDL and become a full-time driver.
When Matt first heard about NTB, it was through a recruiter who came to his school. Matt liked the idea of regular home time each week. Plus, he said, “They have a good reputation,” which was important for deciding where to work.
Matt has been with NTB since he finished his CDL six years ago. “It’s been a pleasure. They have a great maintenance program, and people here know me by my first name.” There are some challenges for new drivers, and Matt sees a lot of that because he’s a trainer with NTB.
“Lifestyle is the hard part. I get rookie drivers who thought it’d be interesting and fun, and that there’s always trucking jobs. They get out here and learn it’s a lot harder being away from family. Even getting home two days per week, it can still be hard being away, especially if you have kids.” Matt points out that drivers come to really enjoy the job if they can adapt to the schedule and learn their routes. “You have to get used to areas you’ve never been in, and learn how to navigate the interstate.”
The things that can challenge other drivers are what Matt enjoys most about driving. “I like being away. I love being out and driving. I grew up traveling because my parents were both teachers so we were off all summer.” He fell in love with the idea of driving a big truck and has loved it as his career.
He feels good about working with NTB, too. “A lot of drivers that leave end up coming back because they treat you so well.” Matt has never driven with another company because he likes NTB so much.
Matt laughs about what he mentions as his hobbies for when he’s not driving. “Well, I like to drive! I get bored, take my car out for a spin, and listen to music.” He plays bass guitar and trumpet, and has fun driving his Corvette in the summer.