Wayne Richardson: A Life of Trucking and the Art of New Beginnings

Getting Started in Trucking

They say that in trucking, either you’re born into it, or you come to love the journey and community it brings. For many in the industry, it’s more than a job—it’s a passion.

Wayne’s journey in the trucking industry began at a young age. Inspired by his father, a professional driver, and driven by his own passion for the road, Wayne took a high school training course that offered a unique advantage: the chance to drive commercial vehicles by earning a chauffeur’s license. By the age of 16, he was already driving a range of vehicles, from trucks to tractors. This dedication ultimately paved the way for Wayne’s rewarding career with The Erb Group.

Joining The Erb Group

Wayne’s journey with The Erb Group began in 1990 when he worked as a salesman for Great Dane. During that time, Wayne was tasked with presenting a new Great Dane trailer to Vernon and Wendell Erb at the Hamilton Road facility, which is now our Head Office. “I remember distinctly driving the truck and trailer to the presentation myself,” Wayne recalled. “The look on Vernon’s face when I got out of the truck was priceless. It was clear that my hands-on experience made an impression.”

This meeting marked the start of a strong partnership. Wayne’s deep understanding of both the technical aspects of trucks and the business needs of fleet management impressed the Erb family. His successful presentation resulted in a significant order of ten trailers, and Wayne’s role in establishing Great Dane as a primary trailer brand for The Erb Group began.

Wayne went the extra mile and even drove with Vernon and Floyd Gerber to Great Dane in Wayne, Nebraska, to pick up a trailer each and transport them home, loaded, of course! His expertise extended beyond sales, covering maintenance and partnership management, which further solidified the relationship between The Erb Group and Great Dane.

The Transition from Sales to Driving

In 2006, Wayne faced the personal loss of his wife, June. He continued working in trailer sales for another year before retiring from Great Dane at age 65. However, retirement was not the end of Wayne’s career; rather, it was a new chapter.

By November 2012, Wayne reconnected with The Erb Group, this time as an AZ Highway Driver based out of the Baden Terminal. With the flexibility in driving shifts, he later transitioned into a long-haul driving position as a U.S. Local Driver. “I enjoyed every hour behind the wheel of my red truck,” Wayne said, until his second retirement in February 2024.

Wayne’s interactions with clients during his deliveries were a highlight of his driving career. “It was always gratifying to see the smiles on clients’ faces when I arrived with their deliveries,” Wayne recalls. “As a driver, I have a lot of clients I would go to regularly, and the salesman in me just interacted with them naturally; each time I was greeted with a ‘Hey Wayne, how are you doing?’ they were happy to see me, and I was happy to see them.”

Key Relationships and Advice

Wayne’s tenure with The Erb Group was defined by meaningful relationships, especially with Vernon and Wendell. “You always felt comfortable around Vernon. With 1,600 employees, he’d still take the time to talk to you like you were his brother, and Wendell is a chip off the old block,” he expressed. “They made me feel like I was part of the family and a valued member of the business.”

Wayne’s approach to maintaining successful partnerships was rooted in respect and effective communication, skills he honed during his time at Great Dane. “Building strong relationships is about more than just business transactions,” he advises. “It’s about understanding the needs of your partners and working together towards common goals. Respect and listening are key.”

Wayne’s ability to connect with clients and colleagues was a testament to his compassionate character. His approach was always client-focused, ensuring that their needs were met and that they felt valued. This client-centric attitude not only strengthened his professional relationships but also contributed to The Erb Group’s overall success.

Life After Retirement

Wayne’s first retirement gave him the freedom to explore other passions, including sailing, flying, and motorcycling trips. He began living aboard his sailboat, “Mirthin,” embarking on adventures across the Carolinas, Nova Scotia, Florida Keys and the Bahamas before returning to Port Credit, Ontario, where his journey had started. Along his travels, Wayne met his partner, Patie, in North Carolina, adding new dimensions to his adventures and creative inspirations.

Wayne’s second retirement was another kind of adventure. After leaving his driving role, he embraced his passion for photography and transformed it into a new career.

What makes Wayne’s photography unique is his choice to print his images on vinyl, the same material used for truck artwork. “Printing on vinyl brings out the colours and textures of my photographs in a way that canvas can’t,” Wayne explained. This medium brings out the vibrancy and detail of his work, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor display. His art reflects his adventures and experiences, showcasing his eye for detail and his ability to capture the beauty of being present.

Staying Connected

Even in his second retirement, Wayne remains connected with the trucking community and former Erb Group colleagues.

“So many wonderful people became a part of my everyday life at Erb. I find it difficult not to be in contact with these folks daily,” expressed Wayne.

Wayne’s story is a testament to how a career can evolve and how personal interests can lead to a fulfilling life. His transition from trucking to photography illustrates his dedication and passion for the beauty he once encountered while on the road.

“I’m thankful for every experience and connection I’ve had,” Wayne concludes. “My time with The Erb Group and my adventures afterward have been incredibly rewarding.”

Tell us your story about trucking and how it has influenced the direction of your journey. Email [email protected]

Explore Wayne’s Art

To view Wayne’s photography and see the world through his lens, visit his website at MirthinPhotoArt.com.