I started my career shortly after college with a few sales roles outside of transportation before stumbling upon an opportunity in brokerage sales at a small brokerage firm. I quickly fell in love with the hustle and problem-solving aspects of the transportation industry. I was particularly fascinated by the planning and coordination required for large, complex projects and oversized freight. It was then that I realized this was something I wanted to pursue independently. After starting my first company in 2012, I quickly understood that this industry was in my blood.

Although I don't share this story often, both of my grandfathers were involved in trucking. One was a driver, while the other owned a pole and piling business with a trucking division. Unfortunately, I never met either of them, and trucking wasn't part of my upbringing. However, I believe their connection to the industry somehow made its way into my veins, as they say. Perhaps it's the qualities needed to thrive in our challenging industry and a deep appreciation for the hard work and sacrifices people make to do their jobs. I feel these values were instilled in me as a direct result of their experiences and background within my family.

From a general freight and overall trucking market perspective, I believe people only recently, especially during the pandemic, started to truly appreciate the trucking industry. We’ve all become accustomed to products being on the shelf whenever we want them, but we seldom think about the sacrifices made by the hardworking individuals who ensure those products are there. Beyond that, I think most people underestimate what it takes to operate and maintain a big truck. It requires countless moving parts, both mechanically and logistically, working together to get from point A to point B.

I think the hardest aspect, beyond the overall challenges of the trucking industry, is managing insurance pricing and renewals. I've learned several lessons in this area over the years from different perspectives, and these experiences have been invaluable. Additionally, and perhaps more broadly in business, are the challenges of establishing concise and repeatable processes and maintaining effective communication. With drivers operating in different locations daily, in-office communication is crucial, but having clear and open two-way communication with our drivers to solve problems quickly is something we constantly strive to improve.

There have been many, so it’s hard to narrow it down to just one. I think the moments that always bring a smile to my face are when we come together to solve a complex problem and everyone contributes to finding a solution. This could involve troubleshooting breakdowns during high-value or rush shipments, getting someone home to their family when unexpected challenges arise, or saving the day when a customer calls with a problem and relies on us to resolve it, ensuring a positive outcome for them and their customer.

I wish I had more hobbies, actually. I love playing golf, but I don’t get to play as much as I used to. I also enjoy being outdoors, whether it’s hunting or riding around exploring. These days, I’d rather observe nature and wildlife rather than truly hunt, but finding time is often difficult. Outside of that, I love spending time with my two young daughters and my wife on new adventures. Watching my daughters experience new things and places while learning so much makes all the hard work in business worthwhile.

This is a really difficult question for me this far into my career. I think something around a high value sales product or service would be an easy answer, but I love interacting with people and solving problems. So really anything with those two aspects.