Truck Driver Appreciation 2024: Honoring the Drivers of the R&R Family of Companies

2024-09-12 10:14 AM

Each September, Truck Driver Appreciation Week gives us an opportunity to reflect on the dedication made by drivers so critical to the R&R Family of Companies. The long stretches of time dedicated to being on the road ensures factories, retailers, hospitals and more are stocked with necessary materials to keep commerce and services running efficiently. This level of dedication makes truck drivers indispensable to our global economy, and deserving of the recognition year in and year out.

The personal sacrifices are partnered with pride in a job that continues to grow in importance as our world becomes more reliant on timely deliveries and efficient transportation. Truck driving is more than a career; it is an essential function that keeps our world in motion. While we nod our heads to the tradition of Truck Driver Appreciation Week, our goal as the R&R Family of Companies is to build a culture of appreciation that lasts all year long.

From the Desk of Phil Reges: COO—Assets

Driver Appreciation Week is almost here! This is one of the most exciting times of the year for me because it gives us all the opportunity to thank you for what you do and recognize that without you, we would not be here. I am new to the R&R Family this year and since I have been here, I have seen the incredible efforts across the board — from our drivers to our team in the office — to make sure that you have the opportunities you need to support yourself and your families. Each day your efforts provide millions of opportunities to provide for others by safely picking up and delivering goods to other families.

Early on in my career a driver of mine, Ken, told me that everything that you see, everything that you buy, was once on a truck. That was not a new concept, but it taught me and reminded me of the importance of the job that you do every day. Not only are you delivering goods for people and families, but when you are on the road you are driving safely and protecting families on the road. As you’re driving, treat every car as if it had your family in it… How would you want someone to drive around your family?

Please take a moment this week to pat yourself on the back for all the hard work and effort that you have put in, not just over the last year, but over the course of your career. Reflect on all the interesting, heartwarming, and beneficial work that you have completed. We are glad that you are a part of the Family, and we look forward to an exciting and productive year ahead!

From the Desk of Dawn Johnston: Vice President of Risk

As we celebrate Driver Appreciation Week, we want to extend our deepest gratitude for the incredible work you do every day. Your dedication, resilience, and hard work keep our country moving and ensure that goods reach their destinations safely and on time.

We recognize the long hours you spend on the road, the challenges you face, and the sacrifices you make to keep our supply chains running smoothly. Your commitment to excellence and professionalism is truly inspiring.

Safety is paramount, and we appreciate your unwavering focus on it. Your adherence to safety protocols, from regular vehicle inspections to following traffic laws, ensures not only your well-being but also the safety of everyone on the road. We appreciate you communicating with the Safety Department with questions, concerns, and coaching as needed. Remember to take breaks, stay alert, and always prioritize your health and safety.

Here are a few key safety reminders:

Regular Rest

Ensure you get adequate rest to avoid fatigue. Take breaks as needed and never push beyond your limits. Vehicle Maintenance Regularly inspect your vehicle to ensure it is in top condition. Check brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components.

Vehicle Maintenance

Regularly inspect your vehicle to ensure it is in top condition. Check brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for maintaining focus and energy levels.

Weather Awareness

Stay informed about weather conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. Slow down in adverse conditions and be prepared for sudden changes.

Defensive Driving

Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers. Maintain a safe following distance and be prepared to react to unexpected situations.

Health Checks

Regular health check-ups are important. Monitor your health and seek medical advice if you feel unwell.

Emergency Preparedness

Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including first aid supplies, tools, and essential items for unexpected situations.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and for being the backbone of our economy. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful for everything you do. Wishing you safe travels, many more miles of success, and always a safe return home!

Meet a Few of the R&R Family of Companies Drivers

Meet Joel

Joel has been with the R&R Family of Companies for the past 22 years, our longest driver at the company.

Learn More About Joel

Meet Ellis

Ellis Kitchen is a dedicated truck driver with a specialized focus on hauling windmill blades.

Learn More About Ellis

Meet Adell

Adell specializes in hauling entertainment equipment for some big names in the industry.

Learn More About Adell

Meet Leonard

As our most tenured driver, Leonard is known for his commitment to hauling frac sand, ensuring that critical materials reach their destinations efficiently.

Learn More About Leonard

Meet Michael

Michael has made a name for himself by hauling a diverse range of cargo, truly living up to his reputation of being able to handle “anything and everything” that comes his way.

Learn More About Michael

Meet Tom

Tom is our most requested tour driver. Known for his laid-back demeanor and extensive experience, he has an impressive 34-year career.

Learn More About Tom

Meet Don

Don is a specialty driver, picking up last minute loads throughout Pittsburgh.

Learn More About Don

Meet Derrick

With three years at the R&R Family of Companies under his belt, Derrick has become a cornerstone of our team, he is always willing to do anything that is needed and has a spotless safety record.

Learn More About Derrick

Did You Know? Read These 10 Interesting Facts About Truck Drivers

If you stacked the 15-million+ commercial trucks in the U.S. end to end, they’d reach the moon. These vehicles are piloted by more than three million truck drivers.
The average truck driver drives 105,000 miles per year.
The United States has approximately 4 million miles of highways, making it one of the most extensive road networks globally, essential for the trucking industry.
The US trucking industry operates 16 million heavy trucks.
The trucking industry is a significant contributor to the economy, with billions of dollars in revenue generated annually. In the U.S. alone, it’s a multi-billion dollar industry.
Thanks to clean diesel technology, 60 modern-day trucks put out the equivalent emission of a single truck from 1988.
The truck industry is predicted to grow up to 21% in the next ten years.
Sean Connery worked as a truck driver early in his career, following in the footsteps of his father.
The first commercial truck was built in 1896 by Gottlieb Daimler, equipped with a 4-horsepower engine and designed to carry goods.
In colder regions like Alaska and parts of Canada, ice road truckers navigate frozen lakes and rivers during winter months when these waterways are frozen, creating temporary “ice roads” for transportation.

Sources/Credits: TruckersReport.com, PRNewswire.com, TheJobNetwork.com, Daimlertruck.com , cdnsciencepub.com

Thank You, Truck Drivers

We see your hard work, we acknowledge your sacrifices, we’re in awe of your accomplishments, and we are grateful to reap the fruits of your labor as individuals, as a company, and as a country.