Penske Truck Leasing Showcasing Connected Fleet Solutions at Transportation Technology Expo
February 28, 2018
Penske Truck Leasing will exhibit at the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Expo held March 5 to 8 in Atlanta. Penske’s fleet technology experts will showcase its connected fleet solutions that enable truck fleet operators to leverage new fleet technologies, gain increased visibility, simplify compliance and maintenance, and increase fleet efficiency.
<p><strong>Connected Fleet Solutions</strong></p><p>Using a proprietary, device-neutral data platform, Penske Truck Leasing connects its fleet maintenance and diagnostics systems with virtually any truck and engine configuration or telematics service provider. Penske’s connected fleet solutions enable faster roadside assistance call triage and improved vehicle maintenance through <a href="https://www.pensketruckleasing.com/connected-fleet-solutions/enhancing-service/" rel="noopener">remote diagnostics</a>, location data, proactive calls to drivers when fault codes arise, and big data analytics. Penske also offers an increasing compliment of mobile phone applications and web-based tools making it even easier for fleet operators to keep informed, safe and compliant.</p><p><strong>Onboard Fleet Technology Consulting</strong></p><p>As an additional free service for customers, Penske Truck Leasing offers <a href="https://www.pensketruckleasing.com/connected-fleet-solutions/connecting-fleets/technology-consulting-services/" rel="noopener">onboard technology consulting</a> to address the proliferation of new truck technology choices and questions fleet operators have about selecting, evaluating, implementing, and using various onboard systems such as telematics and electronic logging devices. Penske takes a device-neutral approach when helping its customers evaluate onboard systems.</p><p>Additionally, Mike Hasinec, vice president of maintenance systems and support at Penske, will be a panelist during Technical Session One: How Last Mile Delivery Solutions Are Transforming Fleet Maintenance Management<em> </em>on Tuesday, March 6 at 8:30 a.m. local time.</p><p>Visit Penske Truck Leasing in booth 2532 at the TMC Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition.</p><p><em>By Kim Harmsen</em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
The aroma of freshly painted walls – a symbol of rebirth and renewal – waded through a once-blighted Reading, Pennsylvania, row home, the site of a joint revitalization project between Penske and Habitat for Humanity of Berks County.
<p>A group of associates from Penske’s <a href="https://www.penskeusedtrucks.com/" rel="noopener">Remarketing Department</a> traded their expertise in transportation for a turn as painters, donating their time as volunteers as they have done for many weekends for nearly a year.</p><p>In all, Penske associates have volunteered more than 250 hours to help revitalize the Tulpehocken Street house which, when completed this summer, will become a home for a local family in need.</p><p>“When you consider what comes from the outpouring of volunteers, that is really something to be respected and admired,” said Tim Daley, executive director of Habitat For Humanity of Berks County. “Thank you, Penske.”</p><p>The joint venture is the first between the non-profit Habitat For Humanity of Berks County, a United Way of Berks County agency partner, and an area corporation. In addition to providing sweat equity, Penske, with offices in suburban Reading, donated $5,000 to help fund the project.</p><p>The idea for Penske’s involvement came from Justin Sobotka, a telephone sales representative in the Remarketing Department, who approached department management – including Bob Glenn, director of Remarketing – to offer the volunteer effort as a department-wide team-building project.</p><p>“Not all of us work together closely because of the different roles we have within our department,” Glenn said. “The Habitat project has allowed for us to spend time together outside of work and to get to know one another better.”</p><p><strong>Driving Home Ownership</strong></p><p>Habitat For Humanity of Berks County formed in 1988 to address the need for affordable housing by serving as a conduit for neighborhood revitalization and providing opportunities for homeownership for area families.</p><p>Homes are sold to the families at no profit, financed by Habitat with little or no interest mortgages. The mortgage payments made by the families are used for more Habitat projects in the community.</p><p>Families vying for a Habitat home must perform 300 hours of “sweat equity” as part of the qualification requirements to be able to purchase a Habitat home.</p><p>When the project began, the house was in blighted condition with boarded-up windows and peeling paint. The combined efforts of Penske volunteers, as well as other volunteer groups and skilled labor, have transformed the building into essentially a new structure.</p><p>There is still more work to be done in the coming weeks, including completing the electrical, plumbing, heating and air-conditioning systems as well as rebuilding the front porch and completing some yard work, said Mike Rodino, director of construction.<strong> </strong></p><p><strong>People Helping People </strong></p><p>On one recent chilly Saturday, Glenn and Shannon Figueroa, a used vehicle purchase coordinator, were among the group of painters working to bring the structure’s walls to life.</p><p>Now that the project is entering its final stages, Glenn reflected on the contributions made by associates from his department.</p><p>“There has been a lot of coordination, communication, teamwork and hard work to bring us where we are today,” Glenn said. “It has been fun working through the stages of a renovation. From demo work to framing and now painting, we have been able to see how much work goes into this type of rebuild project.”</p><p>Figueroa said she was proud to work for a company so invested in giving back to the community and changing lives.</p><p>“It’s a fun opportunity to help the community,” said Figueroa, who concentrated her efforts on the dining room and a powder room. “Just a few hours on the weekend makes such a big impact on someone’s life.”</p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p> </div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Fur-get About Stress When Moving with Pets
February 20, 2018
As project manager for her “older brother’s” household move, Greta Ryan knows the keys to a successful move: a firm paw and gently barking a few orders to make sure everything goes smoothly.
<p>Little Greta, a 12-year-old black and tan Dachshund from suburban <a href="https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cityofcincinnati/" rel="noopener">Cincinnati, Ohio</a>, supervises moves from her perch in the back of <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/" rel="noopener">a Penske</a> rental truck.</p><p>“Our dog adores my son, Casey, and she goes over to his house a lot,” said Mary Ann Ryan, Greta’s fur mom. “She has quite the personality, is good with people and adapts well."</p><p>Whether your trip takes you across the country or across town, Penske Truck Rental has some helpful <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/renting-from-penske/plan-your-move/drive/" rel="noopener">moving tips</a> to help you keep your four-legged family members happy and healthy.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image"><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="92fdd4de5d8d85044e2fafde5d61234e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="11733" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODQ5Mi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzOTM4Njk2MX0.XfKlvuT29lwuXl9G8OhGG-zepU_j4QoIhPdCJwon54E/img.png?width=980"/><small class="image-media media-caption">Greta and Mary Ann Ryan at the 2017 Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati. Photo credit: Mary Ann Ryan</small></p><p><strong>Social Media Darling </strong></p><p>Two years ago, Ryan began posting pictures of little Greta on Instagram, capturing her nuzzling with family, sporting her favorite outfits, spending time in the kitchen and even spending time in the back of a Penske rental truck.</p><p>“Greta has made friends from all over the world,” said Ryan, who has been contacted by people from many countries including Australia, Canada, England, Japan, Norway and The Netherlands. “The pet community on Instagram are the nicest people in the world.”</p><p>When she is not posing for pictures, you can find Greta each October in downtown Cincinnati in the “Running of the Wieners,” the kickoff to the annual <a href="http://www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/">Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati</a>.</p><p><strong>Moving with Pets</strong></p><p>Here are a few tips from Penske when traveling with pets.</p><p><strong>Before you pick up the truck:</strong></p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Check with your pet's veterinarian to see if a mild sedative is recommended for the move.</li> <li>Make sure your pet has enough food and water during the trip</li> <li>Plan to place your pet up front in the truck cab with you. Use a dog harness or crate your pet properly for the trip.</li> <li>Put your pet on a leash or in a kennel/cage when outside the truck.</li> <li>Be sure to have an appropriate ID tag attached to their collar with a current phone number. You might also consider microchip technology that has the full information about your pet placed on a chip under his skin.</li></ul><p><strong>During your move:</strong></p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Do not leave your pet in the truck.</li> <li>If your pet becomes overheated while traveling, take your pet to an air-conditioned area and place him in a shallow tub of cool water or rub your pet down with cool, wet towels.</li> <li>If you have to travel a long distance to your new home and run the chance of making an overnight stay at a hotel/motel, plan ahead of time for a pet-friendly establishment.</li></ul><p><strong>When you arrive:</strong></p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Make sure to unpack your pet's belongings as soon as you get there. These items would include bedding, food and water bowls, and toys</li> <li>This will help your pet adjust as quickly as possible to his new surroundings by having familiar items around.</li></ul><p><em>Penske Truck Rental offers free unlimited miles on all one-way truck rentals, discounts for AAA members, college students and members of the military as well as packing supplies and 24/7 roadside assistance. Are you ready to make a reservation? Visit the Penske Truck Rental </em><a href="http://www.pensketruckrental.com/" rel="noopener"><em>website</em></a><em> for more information.</em></p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon </em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Built to Last: Technician Marks 50th Year Career Milestone
February 19, 2018
As a 10-year-old, John “Chips” Lemke would be fascinated with tractors that operated on tobacco farms near his home, often riding on the machines as they made their way across wide-open spaces.
<p>Later in life, automobiles would capture his imagination, so much so that his mother, who recognized her son’s affinity for mechanical work, encouraged him to seek automotive technical training after high school. It put into motion the makings of a life-long career.</p><p>Now some 50 years after he was first hired by <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/" rel="noopener">Penske</a> as a mechanic, Lemke, a Technician at the <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/locations/connecticut/east_windsor/090110/" rel="noopener">East Windsor, Connecticut location</a>, was recently celebrated for achieving his service milestone by friends, family and fellow associates as well as Roger Penske, Chairman of Penske Corporation.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3e05188e5908c30a9c72426a0f1346f3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="bf535" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODQ4OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMjQzNTIzNX0.gb4FzdjFAxtDfNu2C9SiHHj1JvBKk_g_v8Pafktlp3M/img.jpg?width=980"/></p><p>“It is a remarkable person who is capable and adaptable enough to weather such an onslaught of change,” Mr. Penske said in a letter addressed to Lemke. “It is a fortunate company to have had such a person on their team. Chips, you proved to be such a man.”</p><p>Lemke began his career with Penske in 1967 at the former Hertz Rent-A-Truck in East Hartford, Connecticut. Back then, the average price for a gallon of gas was 33 cents and Polaroid cameras were all the rage.</p><p>It was also a time when the transportation industry was coming of age. That same year, the National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) was created to set standards for motor vehicles and road traffic safety.</p><p>“It would be the start of 50 years of escalating change in our industry, and for a new shop mechanic, the most demanding and challenging evolutionary period in our industry to date,” Mr. Penske wrote in his letter.</p><p>As years turned to decades, Lemke witnessed the changes to his own role, impacted by sweeping technological changes including the rise of computer diagnostics.</p><p>“One good thing about the job is you are always running into something new. You fix a part or something, and you will see something you have never seen before,” Lemke said. “This has been going on for 50 years. It is not a boring job. You always are finding new things that are happening.”</p><p>Variety is one thing has kept him on the job over the years; another has been the relationships he has forged with people along the way, like Al Aughenbaugh, district service manager at the Hartford, Connecticut location.</p><p>“I worked side-by-side with Chips as a Technician and as a manager. He is one of the most dependable, helpful people I’ve worked with. Chips has built strong relationships with drivers over the years. They ask for him by name,” said Aughenbaugh. “Fifty years of service is a testament of his dedication and commitment.”</p><p>Gregg Mangione, senior vice president of maintenance for Penske Truck Leasing, added his voice to those congratulating Lemke on his service achievement.</p><p>“When you think about how large of an organization we have become, I am so proud of our passionately personal culture that ensures we value not only our maintenance associates every day, but individuals like “Chips” who helped to support all of that growth,” Mangione said.</p><p>“John, working every day at something you enjoy is something many strive for in a career. The hard work is always adapting to change,” he said. “You have worked through five decades of accelerating change and challenge in the business of commercial truck maintenance. I hope people are inspired by your path, your dedication to your family and to Penske.”</p><p>In addition to his service milestone, Lemke is set to enjoy another: His 50<sup>th</sup> wedding anniversary in 2020.</p><p>“My wife’s family owned a restaurant around the corner from the garage. Their house was adjoining the property where the garage was located. I used to go there and charge my food. I would ask her at the end of the week, ‘What do I owe you?’ And she would say it was about $8.29,” Lemke said with a chuckle.</p><p>After six months, the couple dated and eventually married in 1970. They have four children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.</p><p>At his 50<sup>th</sup> work anniversary party in December, Lemke was happy to share the milestone with family and people he has worked with over the years.</p><p>Lemke credits his longevity with Penske to “being lucky and making good choices.”</p><p><em>Penske Truck Leasing and Penske Logistics offer a range of career opportunities including: truck fleet maintenance technicians, truck drivers, fleet maintenance supervisors, operations management roles, logistics and supply chain operations roles and many others. Visit </em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/"><em>gopenske.com/careers</em></a><em> for more information on career opportunities.</em></p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon </em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Penske Truck Rental Named a Supplier of the Year by Coca-Cola Bottlers Sales and Services
February 16, 2018
Penske Truck Rental was named “Supply Tower Supplier of the Year” by Coca-Cola Bottlers Sales and Services LLC (CCBSS). Penske was presented with the award during the recent CCBSS Annual Supplier Summit at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
<p>“It’s an honor to be recognized by a customer for our efforts. The award is a testament to our dedicated associates who support CCBSS,” said Art Vallely, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Penske. “We are proud to be a supplier for CCBSS and we look forward to supporting their fleet needs for years to come.”</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0693a97b5d6649af83102610181d6be7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="699fc" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODQ4OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NjQ5OTc4OH0.Sg8l8dlYKy5x_cvHgRMRHdfJV9g95k-WmmDE1IBm-sc/img.jpg?width=980"/></p><p>Penske is the primary truck rental provider throughout the Coca-Cola Bottler System. Providing nationwide rental support from tractors to straight trucks and trailers, <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/commercial-truck-rental/commercial-trucks/">Penske Truck Rental</a> enables U.S. Coca-Cola bottlers to achieve business continuity and insure fulfillment of their distribution obligations.</p><p>The award recognizes the best seven suppliers among all 1,000 commercial categories, who provide products and services to the Coca-Cola System in North America. Penske was selected based on a variety of factors including its ability to be responsive and flexible as well as providing consistent quality service levels.</p><p>With one of the newest and among the largest rental truck fleets, <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com">Penske Truck Rental</a> provides businesses with <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/commercial-truck-rental/commercial-trucks/heavy-duty-trucks/">sleeper and day cab heavy duty semi-tractors</a>, <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/commercial-truck-rental/commercial-trucks/medium-duty-trucks/">straight trucks</a>, flatbeds, refrigerated vans, trailers and more. Penske rents the top brands of light-duty, medium-duty and heavy-duty commercial vehicles including: Ford, GMC, Hino, Isuzu, Freightliner, International and Volvo.</p><p>Penske also offers do-it-yourself movers well-maintained rental trucks as well as moving equipment, packing supplies, and accessories. Penske Truck Rental is one of the premier commercial truck rental providers operating a fleet of more than 67,000 rental units.</p><p>Call 1-800-PENSKE-1 to rent a commercial truck. Penske Truck Rental is a unit of Penske Truck Leasing.</p><p><em>By Kim Harmsen</em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Trucking Industry Keeps the Bloom on Valentine’s Day Flower Deliveries
February 14, 2018
Bright, fragrant flowers, the universal symbol of love, will be in abundance today as consumers shower loved ones with bouquets on Valentine’s Day.
<p>Heart-shaped holidays, like Valentine’s Day, are busy times for the floral industry, which depends on trucking companies, including <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/" rel="noopener">Penske Logistics</a> and <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/commercial-truck-rental/" rel="noopener">Penske Truck Rental</a>, to help ensure perishables like flowers and candy arrive in top condition.</p><p>“Most consumers want their flowers on Valentine’s Day, so it is vital that florists have their product on time and of the freshest quality,” said Jennifer Sparks, vice president of marketing for the <a href="https://safnow.org/" rel="noopener">Society of American Florists</a> (SAF), based in Virginia. “Trucking companies and their drivers play a big role in helping to make that happen.”</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="83cf0dc0ae94d85e8d455dcff349e2da" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="7d9ab" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODQ4Ny9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0OTcxNDg4NH0.dgKGJoobHPt19JA216aeNwE1NN7_qguI4Y9j6rouYZo/img.png?width=980"/></p><p>Consumers are expected to spend $19.6 billion on Valentine’s Day this year or an average of $143.56 in Valentine’s Day gift giving, according to a survey by <a href="https://nrf.com/media/press-releases/nrf-says-consumers-will-spend-near-record-196-billion-valentines-day" rel="noopener">the National Retail Federation</a> (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics.</p><p>“Americans are looking forward to pampering and indulging their loved ones with flowers, candy, dinner and all of the other Valentine’s Day stops,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “With the holidays behind them and the winter months dragging along, consumers are looking for something to celebrate this time of year.”</p><p>Flower sales alone were projected to reach $2 billion, according to the NRF. Which stands to reason since Valentine’s Day is the number one holiday for floral purchases, second only to Christmas and Chanukah in spending, according to the SAF.</p><p>In fact, this year, more than 250 million roses were produced to shower on loved ones on Valentine’s Day, and roses lead the way in flower purchases, followed by tulips, carnations and lilies, according to the SAF.</p><p>Why are flowers synonymous with love? Science may have the answer.</p><p>According to a <a href="https://aboutflowers.com/quick-links/health-benefits-research/emotional-impact-of-flowers-study/" rel="noopener">Rutgers University study</a>, “the presence of flowers triggers happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive manner far beyond what is normally believed.”</p><p>The researchers studied participants’ behavioral and emotional responses to receiving flowers, with the results showing flowers are a “natural and healthful moderator of moods.”</p><p>The study also found that flowers have an immediate impact on happiness, impact moods long-term and make intimate connections.</p><p>The science connection extends to deliveries as well.</p><p>“Scientific research is overwhelmingly conclusive when it comes to cold chain and longevity of flowers,” said Chris Drummond, president of<a href="https://www.pflorist.com/" rel="noopener"> Plaza Flowers</a> in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and SAF's president-elect. “Temperature is the most important factor in the process of getting flowers from the farm to the consumer.”</p><p>Vase life decreases substantially when the temperature of the freight rises above 35 degrees Fahrenheit, Drummond said.</p><p>“Since airplanes are not refrigerated, trucks are the obvious choice for transporting fresh flowers,” he said. “Partnering with a reliable trucking company that properly maintains their refrigerated trailers is critical for floral wholesalers and large retailers. “</p><p>New technologies allow retailers to monitor the temperature of the freight, and professional drivers who understand the perishable nature of our products are invaluable, Drummond said.</p><p>“During the loading and unloading process, flowers can get too cold or too warm. A good driver understands how to monitor the temperature of the trailer and manage the loading and unloading procedure to minimize temperature fluctuations,” he said.</p><p><a href="https://www.citycommerceflowers.com/" rel="noopener">Commerce Flowers</a> is among the many florists who have experienced a spike in business leading up to Valentine’s Day.</p><p>“It’s been very busy,” said Duke Nomura, treasurer at Commerce Flowers, which has a fleet of its own trucks but rented additional Penske units to meet the need this Valentine’s Day. A long-time customer, Nomura said he rents with Penske because of the quality trucks and nice people.</p><p><em>Penske offers a wide variety of rental trucks from large commercial semi-tractors and trailers to small box trucks. Penske encourages retailers and businesses to make reservations by calling its hotline for business rentals, 1-800-PENSKE1. New business truck rental customers can enjoy an additional </em><a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/commercial-truck-rental/renting-from-penske/new-customer-discount/" rel="noopener"><em>20 percent off</em></a><em> your first truck or tractor rental.</em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
America’s Road Team Captains Help Young Drivers Safely Share the Road
February 13, 2018
Professional truck drivers know safe driving habits are important when traveling on roadways filled with congestion and other distractions, often situations that can be a challenge for new drivers.
<p>Through <a href="http://www.trucking.org/Share_the_Road.aspx" rel="noopener">Share the Road</a>, a highway safety program developed by the <a href="http://www.trucking.org/" rel="noopener">American Trucking Associations (ATA)</a>, professional truck drivers teach teen drivers how to exercise good judgment when driving on roadways shared with commercial vehicles like tractor-trailers.</p><p>Members of the ATA’s America’s Road Team – including <a href="https://blog.gopenske.com/logistics/driver-embraces-trucking-safety-ambassador-role/" rel="noopener">Earl Taylor</a>, an America’s Road Team Captain and professional truck driver for <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/" rel="noopener">Penske Logistics</a> – draw on their experience and exemplary safety records to serve as program ambassadors and pass along tips to young drivers.</p><p>“If we teach teens at an early age, before they develop bad habits, they can be more effective drivers,” said Drew Mitrisin, manager of industry affairs for the ATA. “Even if kids take one or two things away from a Share the Road demonstration, we still think it will be valuable and potentially life-saving.”</p><p>Taylor recently visited with students at two high schools in Virginia, offering them a chance to climb into the cab of the official Share the Road tractor-trailer, explore the sleeper compartment and experience a commercial unit from a professional truck driver’s vantage point.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ca94fd4b5d7f227c70de0a185c2a2961" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="dcb6d" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODQ4NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NDI4MDg2Nn0.dj3HtNAMAhxewECHWQjVaDJwuzmPYgwmvXdf4_QBJsc/img.jpg?width=980"/></p><p>“We all want to be safe on the road, and the only way is for teens to understand what we are doing,” Taylor said. “We are professional drivers; we have a pretty good understanding of what to expect out on the road, but new drivers don’t have as much experience or exposure to commercial vehicles.”</p><p><strong>Driving Home Highway Safety</strong></p><p>The Share the Road program began in 1986 to teach the public how to coexist safely with large trucks on roadways, working with many highway safety partners, including state trucking associations and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.</p><p>“Once you understand the limitations of a truck, you will be able to better predict what a truck driver will do and how you can drive responsibly next to a truck driver,” said Mitrisin.</p><p>In addition to schools, Share the Road events are held during the year at state capitols, motorcycle and RV events, auto shows and truck driving championships. An official Share the Road tractor-trailer serves as a literal touchpoint of the presentation.</p><p>Some Share the Road program <a href="http://www.trucking.org/article.aspx?uid=9338fc87-cfbd-4719-95ae-2f0d9444a2db">tips</a> include:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>When following behind a truck, remain 20 to 25 car lengths behind it.</li> <li>Leave enough space if you need to stop suddenly for an accident ahead of you or to avoid debris in the roadway.</li> <li>When passing a truck, and before moving back into its lane, make sure you can see the truck’s headlights in your rearview mirror before you move back over.</li></ul><p>“One of the big messages is to understand when you’re in a blind spot and try to get out of it quickly but safely. There is a blind spot in the front, and trucks take a long time to stop, so you want to make sure you give him plenty of cushion when you are cutting back into the truck driver’s lane,” Mitrisin said.</p><p>By having professional truck drivers leading the presentation, it gives teens an authentic voice and a glimpse of the important roles professional truck drivers play.</p><p>“This is really a good chance for our professional truck drivers like Earl, who have tons of accident-free miles, to talk to kids first hand and explain the fact that truck drivers are professionals and they do everything they can to get families home safely,” said Mitrisin.</p><p>Safe driving is not only a key component to Penske Logistics’ success, and the success of our customers, but it also ensures the safety of the company’s 4,650 professional truck drivers, including Taylor.</p><p>A big part of Penske’s safety initiative is encouraging drivers to participate in the Smith System training course. Smith System is a leading provider of collision avoidance driving training.</p><p>“Our professional truck drivers put a premium on safe driving to keep themselves safe as well as other motorists,” said Jason Herr, vice president of safety for Penske Logistics. “Safe driving is central to the professional, efficient and on-time performance we provide for our customers each and every day.”</p><p><strong>On a Safety Mission</strong></p><p>During his time in Virginia, Taylor spoke with 10th-grade students in the driver education programs at two high schools.</p><p>“They are excited about driving. They want to get their license. They want that freedom – to be able to go when you want, to come back when you want and not have to depend on someone to pick you up,” he said. “Freedom is a luxury.”</p><p>During Taylor’s presentation, the students’ curiosity grew once they could climb inside the tractor. “They became interested in the emission control systems and the electronic logs. They wanted to know about the volume of the trailer,” Taylor said.</p><p>For Taylor, the event allowed him to indulge one of his passions – promoting safety and impacting the lives of children.</p><p>“When you see a kid who understands the safety part because of the information you have personally given, there is no greater feeling than that.”</p><p><em>Interested in a driving career with Penske? Visit </em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/drivers/" rel="noopener"><em>gopenske.com/drivers</em></a><em> for employment opportunities. The company offers competitive wages and a wide range of</em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html"><em> </em></a><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html" rel="noopener"><em>benefits</em></a><em>. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</em></p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon </em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Penske Showcases Utility Vehicle Maintenance Services
February 07, 2018
Penske Truck Leasing will return to this year’s National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) TechAdvantage 2018 Conference & Expo from February 25-28 in Nashville, Tennessee, to showcase its contract maintenance services.
<p>Penske maintains bucket trucks and other vehicles electric cooperatives and utilities use in servicing many communities across America.</p><p>Penske provides its skilled technicians with the latest training and diagnostic technology so they can offer best-in-class maintenance services either at its own facilities or on-site at the customer’s location.</p><p>“We’ve seen a tremendous increase in interest among electric cooperatives and utility companies in having Penske provide on-site services,” said Marshall Merz, national support executive at Penske. “With Penske techs on-site to handle all fleet maintenance activities, our customers can focus on what they do best – keeping power on for their members.”</p><p>Penske also serves as the primary point of contact for its customers, handling invoicing, payments, pick-ups, drop-offs and schedules with other maintenance vendors.</p><p>Through its contract maintenance services, Penske can help electric providers:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Lower operating costs</li> <li>Save on procurement expenses</li> <li>Optimize vehicle uptime</li> <li>Extend years-of-service for trucks</li></ul><p>To learn more, visit <a href="http://s23.a2zinc.net/clients/Kenworthy/TA2018/Public/eventmap.aspx?&shMode=E" rel="noopener">Penske’s booth (749) at the 2018 NRECA TechAdvantage Expo </a>or visit our <a href="https://www.pensketruckleasing.com/maintenance/preventive-maintenance.html" rel="noopener">website</a>.</p><p>A global leader in transportation services, Penske Truck Leasing operates more than 266,000 vehicles and offers leasing, <a href="https://www.pensketruckleasing.com/full-service-leasing/leasing-services/comprehensive-maintenance/" rel="noopener">comprehensive fleet maintenance,</a> truck rental, and logistics services with more than 1,000 locations in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia.</p><p><em>By "Move Ahead" Staff</em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Twice as Nice: Penske is Lincoln Tech’s “Diesel Employer of the Year”
February 05, 2018
For the second time in three years, Penske Truck Leasing was presented with the Diesel Employer of the Year Award from Lincoln College of Technology in Denver, Colorado.
<p>This award is given to outstanding employers who demonstrate a long-term commitment to the school and their graduates by offering internships and employment and developing unique relationships with students.</p><p>Cecil Reed, Penske’s district service manager at the Denver location, and his team make sure the students feel welcome by offering them a tour of the facility and showing them the different vehicles their technicians work on. Reed describes what the school’s relationship means to his location and how they support the students.</p><p>“The collaboration with the school is highly valued and continues to grow and get stronger,” Reed said. “We hire many students while they’re in school to work as customer service representatives, so they get to learn our operations and become familiar with our processes and equipment.”</p><p>As Penske’s expansive and highly diverse fleet continues to grow beyond 266,000 vehicles, so does demand for a workforce of well-trained, professional technicians to maintain and repair these vehicles.</p><p>Zach Endicott, Penske’s district manager in Denver, says that this opportunity with the school has been the perfect match for them in trying to recruit more technicians.</p><p>“We need to hire the best talent as we continue to grow, and the students coming out of Lincoln Tech are exactly what we’re looking for,” said Endicott.</p><p>This strong relationship often leads to most of the students staying with Penske upon graduation and transitioning to technician roles. It’s been a huge benefit to both Lincoln Tech and Penske’s Denver location.</p><p>“The quality of associates coming from our partnership with Lincoln Tech is outstanding,” said Monty Younce, Penske’s area maintenance manager in Tempe, Arizona. “They are highly motivated and have a great can-do attitude. We’re proud to accept this award.”</p><p><em>In the above image, associates from Penske Truck Leasing’s Denver, Colorado, location and Lincoln College of Technology pose with the 2017 Diesel Employer of the Year Award. <strong>Pictured (left to right):</strong> Tony Crisci, recruiter; Zach Endicott, district manager; Cecil Reed, district service manager; and Ken Phipps, director of career services at Lincoln College of Technology.</em></p><p>Ready for a rewarding career as a diesel technician or another area of fleet maintenance at Penske Truck Leasing? Apply at <a href="http://www.gopenske.com/careers">GoPenske.com/careers</a> today.</p><p><em>By Chris Abruzzo</em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
African-American Mobile Truck Tour Celebrates 10th Anniversary
February 01, 2018
For the past decade, American Legacy Magazine has toured the country with a mobile museum filled with touchstones from African-American history.
<p>A <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/" rel="noopener">Penske</a> tractor has shepherded the trailer the past few years as the mobile tour has traveled to schools, colleges, churches and other community gathering places to allow visitors to experience the tour's many exhibits.</p><p>This year marks the 10<sup>th</sup> year for the tour, which kicks off today in Detroit – on the first day of <a href="http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month" rel="noopener">Black History Month</a> – and will continue to 10 more cities throughout the country during the month.</p><p>“One of the reasons we started the magazine in 1995 is there was a huge appetite for African-American history across this country,” said Rodney Reynolds, founder and publisher of American Legacy Magazine.</p><p><strong>History Brought to Life </strong></p><p>The tour began in February 2008 as a 30-day, 20-city tour and has expanded beyond Black History Month.</p><p>“Our truck has continued to travel around the country throughout the year visiting school districts, colleges and universities, churches, African-American festivals and events showcasing our history in a very novel way,” Reynolds said.</p><p><span class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="de391faeb0ff9d75097d3835655d4b55" style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="auto" type="lazy-iframe" scrolling="no" data-runner-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IrksG2W05lA?rel=0" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;" width="100%"></iframe></span></p><p>The mobile museum features a mix of framed magazine covers, from past print magazine editions, featuring African-American historical figures and exhibits on African-Americans.<img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="649d83613328254d1655e93345c71d74" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="744c8" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODQ4MC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMjcwNDMwNn0.IEKs_PWmzvHULxOPMjzqcXX9jcpKlJL_4LKV1V8sRX0/img.jpg?width=980"/></p><p>Although the magazine, which began in 1995, ceased publication of its print edition in 2011, the exhibit displays African-American history and culture captured on its pages.</p><p>This year’s 10th-anniversary tour will feature the debut of a new expandable trailer to accommodate more exhibits, including some new ones for the 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary, including a sports-themed exhibit as well as general history.</p><p>“Something special that we have this year is on African-Americans who have appeared on cereal boxes,” Reynolds said. “There are 16 to 18 pieces that are part of that particular exhibit, and the collection highlights some you know and some you may not know who have appeared on cereal boxes.”</p><p>Corporate support through Toyota, the exclusive tour sponsor, and <a href="http://www.gomra.com/" rel="noopener">MRA experiential tours & equipment</a> in Michigan, which helped to secure the Penske tractor, has made the 10th-anniversary tour possible, Reynolds said.</p><p>“When you look at this trailer being pulled across the country, against the backdrop of the Penske tractor, it is just something to see,” he said. “Penske has been a stable partner, and having dependable equipment is important.”</p><p>Ryan Reid, lease sales representative at Penske’s location in <a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/locations/michigan/warren/013410/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=google-my-business-HPTL-0134-10" rel="noopener">Warren, Michigan</a>, said his location was happy to assist MRA and American Legacy. “We feel honored and blessed to be able to take part in such an amazing and inspiring tour,” Reid said.</p><p><strong>Inspiring a New Generation </strong></p><p>Beyond more than just iconography, the mobile museum serves to encourage children and young adults by looking back at the contributions of African-Americans.</p><p>“We have made major and significant contributions that make America what it is today, and so to be able to inspire and educate our children and youth and our adults, and anyone who comes on the truck – this provides them a glimpse of the excellence that is associated with our community,” he said.</p><p>While there are some 100 African-American museums, including the <a href="https://nmaahc.si.edu/" rel="noopener">National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington, D.C,</a> not everyone is able to travel to them.</p><p>“What we are doing is providing them just a little glimpse of inspiration, because you never know how children and youth, and the community at large, will be inspired by what they may see on our truck.”</p><p>For more information about American Legacy Magazine or the mobile tour, please visit the publication’s <a href="http://www.americanlegacymag.com/" rel="noopener">website</a>.</p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon </em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Penske Truck Leasing’s connected fleet solutions will take center stage at the upcoming Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo. The Connected Vehicle Technology Showcase, being held during the ACT Expo (April 30 through May 3 at the Long Beach Convention Center in California), will include timely workshops featuring industry and government stakeholders that are driving innovation, and an expo hall show floor that will provide hands-on access to connected fleet solutions.
<p>“The growing emergence of <a href="https://blog.gopenske.com/lease/penske-truck-leasing-launches-connected-fleet-solutions/" rel="noopener">connected fleet solutions</a> represents a tremendous opportunity for the transportation industry,” remarked Drew Cullen, Penske’s senior vice president of fuels and facility services. “We are very excited to showcase our connected fleet technology at the ACT Expo.”</p><p>The new concentration on connected fleet solutions will further expand the annual ACT Expo, which is now in its eighth year and is the industry’s largest gathering of commercial fleets, clean fuel and charging infrastructure providers, and advanced transportation technology suppliers for all weight classes.</p><p>“There is significant opportunity for fleets of all sizes and across all fuels to use advanced technologies to improve operational, economic and environmental performance,” said Erik Neandross, CEO at GNA, the producers of ACT Expo.</p><p>“Penske Truck Leasing is leading the industry with innovative connected fleet solutions, and with their partnership, the Connected Vehicle Technology Showcase will equip fleet managers with the tools and knowledge to maximize performance while improving safety and compliance,” he continued.</p><p>Penske is a Presenting Sponsor of the conference.</p><p><em>By “Move Ahead” Staff</em></p></div>
[Read more...]
Show less
Loading posts...