During the pandemic one of our drivers, Marcus P, has consistently submitted pictures for our monthly photo contest and exhibited great pride in Musket. It’s tremendous to see such spirit during these unprecedented times. We wanted to share a collection of his #MyMusket photos and conduct an interview. Not only is Marcus P a driver at Musket but he is also a CHET Graduate.
INTERVIEW:
Where did you grow up?
I am second generation Canadian, born in London, England and have grown up in the six. Next year will be 40 years in Canada.
Before entering the trucking industry, were you involved in any other professions?
I’ve worked for a Crown Corporation, sub federal level for almost 10 years in the securities sector, left the job for the stock market as a self-trader. I have also worked in the Grocer Business learning all aspects from the front to back end of the business. I’ve also established a long working career in the restaurant industry after secondary school.
What initially attracted you to the transportation industry?
Actually, my previous boss I was working for at the time, attended CHET almost 10 years ago and a big thanks to CHET he has been very successful in the trucking industry. Genuinely, I felt the same way too! Currently, he drives for Canadian Tire due to the downturn in the economy.
How long have you been working in the industry?
January 2021 will be three years as a professional driver. About 500k accident- free.
Describe your role and key responsibilities.
My role as a driver is to exercise reasonable care to safely transport goods cross country without accident or incident and provide customer service.
The responsibilities of the driver are an extensive and exhaustive list of laws, by-laws, regulations and rules, standards and requirements to abide by that change by state or province. Additionally, scrutiny on individual interpretation by local enforcement.
What do you love most about your job?
Besides being a professional tourist, that would be driving. That’s what I love the most about the job.
How did your CHET driver’s training prepare you for this role?
The trainers were drivers that have years of experience with what I encountered on the same routes. The job specific training was the advantage to succeed safely, no matter what I had trailing behind me.
Can you give an example of a situation in which your training benefited you on the road?
When in my personal vehicle my behaviour behind the wheel is more safe and I’m more responsible driving.
What motivated your decision to come drive for Musket?
It was the experience of individuals that have worked in the industry and Musket Transport for many years. I knew I would be making a good sound decision and I could reach my goals if I worked hard.
What 3 qualities do you think make someone well suited to a career in transportation?
Motivation, motivation, motivation,
– To do a great job.
– To maintain good health both physically and mentally.
– To keep a good safe running truck trailer.
Additionally, good navigation skills, organization and responsible.
What is the greatest misconception that people have about the trucking industry?
Men are better truck drivers than women. Misconception! In fact, research shows women are better truck drivers.
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment?
– Being awarded with a Quarterly Driver Award in January 2019.
– Finding the balance at work and home as a professional driver.
– Failing horribly at something and still having the courage to try again.
What advice would you give to individuals considering entering the industry or to licensed entry-level drivers?
Find a senior mentor/experienced driver who can help you through the inexperienced first days on the road and someone who can answer all your questions.
There is a variety of careers in the transportation industry, employment prospects and lifestyles with flexibility.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I really love spending time learning how to rebuild vintage trucks and automobiles.