From Driver to Supervisor: Tommy Conner’s Journey in Mt. Vernon

As we celebrate Driver Appreciation Week, it’s the perfect opportunity to highlight the journey of Tommy Conner, a fleet supervisor in Mt. Vernon. Tommy’s story is a testament to how hard work and effective leadership can transform lives and careers through trucking.

A New Direction in Trucking

Tommy began his professional journey in factory work, often pulling night shifts. Seeking a better future for his family, he decided to pivot to trucking. “I wanted a career that I could get certification and have the chance to earn a good income,” he explains. After completing trucking school in four weeks and obtaining his CDL, Tommy hit the road, quickly discovering that this new path would not only support his family but also set the stage for greater opportunities.

Leading the Way

Tommy's exceptional leadership skills were evident long before he became a driver, laying a solid foundation for his role as a supervisor. His experience as a sports captain instilled in him the ability to inspire and motivate others, qualities that seamlessly translated into his trucking career.

When asked for advice for drivers pursuing a career in trucking, Tommy emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean driving record and striving for excellence. He encourages his team to focus on continuous improvement by acknowledging the industry's evolution and embracing technology alongside traditional practices. In addition, he tells his team to “Engage with the activities and goals we have as a company."

Being surrounded by drivers with decades of experience and entry level experience, he recognizes there is a lot to learn both ways "iron sharpens iron,” he says.

The Significance of Driver Appreciation Week

For Tommy, Driver Appreciation Week holds deep meaning. Having recently been a driver himself, he understands the sacrifices drivers make. “They miss school events and birthdays” he reflects. This week serves as a reminder to honor the hard work and dedication that goes into each journey.

As a leader, Tommy strives to ensure his team feels appreciated in meaningful ways. This year, they celebrated with BBQ chicken and pulled pork, aiming to create a sense of community and recognition that goes beyond the usual fare.

Tommy’s journey from driver to supervisor is an inspiring example of how effective leadership and dedication can make a significant impact the life of others and in the trucking industry. His dedication to mentoring, commitment to excellence, and understanding of the challenges drivers face exemplify the spirit of the trucking community. As we celebrate Driver Appreciation Week, we extend our gratitude to Tommy and all our drivers for their unwavering dedication and hard work!

Thank you Tommy for participating in this article.