Op-eds from outside contributors to The Dallas Morning News Opinion section.
Fidel Marquez, a driver from Arlington who was recently inducted into the Truck Driver Hall of Fame, writes about the surprising aspects of his job.After 25 years working as a truck driver, I can sum up the job in a way that may be surprising to those not familiar with our critically important industry: it’s opportunity-opening.during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week at a conference in Fort Worth.
There are several types of truck drivers: long-haul drivers who command large semis on routes that can take multiple days to complete, drivers who work on shorter distances, and day-to-day drivers like me who take items from a warehouse to a set of locations.Before joining my current employer, McLane, which operates one of the largest private fleets in the U.S.
This job encompasses skill sets beyond the challenge of navigating the road; in fact, much of what goes into foodservice delivery extends well beyond the safe handling of a vehicle. For example, I am physically loading and unloading products. I communicate with folks all along the food supply chain, people who start off as customers but often become friends. I have to use my empathy; after all, everyone needs food to live, especially the recipients of the items in my truck.
Someday, I’d love to open my own small convenience store or mini market, and being a driver allows me to get a taste of what that commitment would entail before I make the big decision to do it. I get a glimpse into the back end of the store — literally — and am making connections with people who can share their experiences and give advice.Truckers of all rigs and routes are a vital part of the functioning of our society, and I’m proud to be part of this team.
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