Spring Ahead: Tips to Help You Navigate the Time Change
March 09, 2018
Clocks and timepieces across the country are set to spring ahead at 2 a.m. on Sunday, ushering in daylight saving time, resulting in longer days and one less hour of precious sleep.
<p>For many professional truck drivers, motorists and schoolchildren, commuting to their morning destinations may mean starting the day in darkness. </p><p>Earl Taylor, a <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/" rel="noopener">Penske Logistics</a> professional truck driver and one of <a href="http://www.trucking.org/" rel="noopener">American Trucking Associations</a>’ America’s Road Team Captains, is offering some tips to help drivers navigate the spring time change.</p><p>“The first couple of days are crucial because of the time change,” Taylor said. “I have been getting up and going to work for 40 years, and the time change is an adjustment for me, especially this one.”</p><p>The federal government first enacted <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/science/2018/03/06/10-things-you-didnt-know-daylight-saving-time/400019002/">daylight saving time</a> on March 19, 1918, during World War I as a way to conserve coal.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image"><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b418ef72ca4d1c3197a82b7d2e3b72c4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="0e375" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODUwMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTAwNjA0MX0.g3_9d1cnh6JEU3a9Q5Q_5C5DZqEHGr1-DSttNdB7xR8/img.jpg?width=980"/><small class="image-media media-caption">Credit: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</small></p> <p>Most of the country observes the annual springtime change. Hawaii and Arizona are the only two U.S. states that do not observe daylight savings time. They are joined by American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.</p><p>Indiana joined #TeamSpringAhead in 2006 when it enacted a statewide law requiring all parts of the state to observe daylight saving time.</p><p><strong>Spring Ahead Tips </strong></p><p><strong> </strong>For professional truck drivers and motorists alike, it will take a few days to adjust to the time change.</p><p>“You will have to deal with the darkness in the morning, at the bus stop with kids going to school, that will be a challenge for most people because they are not used to seeing pedestrians walking at that time of the morning,” Taylor said.</p><p>Many will gain a potential new companion on your ride home: bright sunlight.</p><p>“Depending on what direction you are riding in, you may experience more sunlight on the commute home,” said Taylor, who suggested bringing along a pair of sunglasses and adjusting mirrors so the glare does not cause blind spots.</p><p>Yet for some, losing an hour of sleep will require the biggest adjustment.</p><p>“Losing sleep – you really feel it. Not having proper rest can make you easily irritated, become not focused and cause you to miss little details,” said Taylor. “Getting the proper amount of sleep assures you that your body is rested and you can be focused and very alert while driving.”</p><p>Taylor is also an advocate of keeping your same routine while your body adjusts to the time change.</p><p>“Some people, even me, want to hit the snooze button in the morning for that extra few minutes of sleep,” Taylor said. “You have to keep that same routine. If you walk before work or take the dog out, keep to that same routine.”</p><p>Here are some <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/science/2018/03/06/10-things-you-didnt-know-daylight-saving-time/400019002/" rel="noopener">fun facts</a> about daylight saving time:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>The S. Department of Transportation is in charge of time in the U.S., including time zones and daylight saving time.</li> <li>Eight months of the year are in daylight time and four months are in standard time.</li> <li>During the <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/10/31/daylight-saving-time-ends-fall-back/93047812/" rel="noopener">energy crisis of the 1970s</a>, Congress ordered states to go on year-round daylight saving time between January 1974 and April 1975.</li></ul><p>Lamenting over your lost hour of sleep? Not to worry: We gain an extra hour when standard time begins on Nov. 5.</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>
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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>
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Driver Embraces Trucking Safety Ambassador Role
April 19, 2017
Everything seems big when you grow up the youngest of seven children, but nothing more so for Earl Taylor than his older brother’s tall royal blue Kenworth tractor, with its tandem axles and twin stacks.
<p>Taylor would be mesmerized as his older brother - an over-the-road driver - would share tales of his adventures driving his sleeper unit over the open road.</p><p>Now it is Taylor, a professional driver for <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/">Penske Logistics</a>, who has tales of his own to tell, including traveling to the White House to advocate on behalf of the trucking industry as part of the <a href="http://www.trucking.org/Home.aspx">American Trucking Associations</a> (ATA) 2017-2018 America’s Road Team.</p><p>“I really didn’t consider being a trucker at the time. One day the opportunity presented itself, and I decided why not,” said Taylor, now in his 20<sup>th</sup> year driving trucks for Penske Logistics in Orlando, Florida. “I remembered my brother having a good life with trucking as a career, so I gave it a shot.”</p><p><strong>Grabbing Hold of a Great Career</strong></p><p>While he always loved automobiles, Taylor was introduced to oversized vehicles during his time in the Army as a tactical operations specialist, where he would be required to drive five-ton military vehicles.</p><p>After his time in the Army, Taylor worked for a package delivery company, where he received his first taste of truck driving, before joining Penske Logistics as a part-time driver.</p><p>“I had never driven farther than 15 to 20 miles in one trip. I wanted to do more with my life and career,” Taylor said. “Penske gave me an opportunity to come on full-time, so I took advantage of that, and I felt like it was the greatest move of my life.”</p><p>Penske offered Taylor so many more opportunities that he could not find with another company. He respected the Penske brand and the company’s position as a leader in the transportation industry.</p><p>“I became a <a href="https://www.drivedifferent.com/">Smith System</a> trainer. I was also able to further my skills at customer service, being a delivery person and interacting with the general public,” Taylor said. “Penske allowed me to be myself on a daily basis, which made me feel like I was part of something special.”</p><p>Beyond that, his job as a professional driver allowed him the flexibility to spend time with his two sons, who were active in sports growing up, including some coached by Taylor.</p><p>“Penske allowed me to have some flexibility by enabling me to work at night and have the day to be a part of practice and coach the games for my kids,” said Taylor, who coached youth football and high school track and field.</p><p>By far, his biggest professional opportunity was on the horizon.</p><p><strong>From Professional Driver to Road Team Captain</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image"><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="03555489c96efa2204717c535f04de93" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="e0a13" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODE3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NjU1NTUxNH0.jzRmlvSyYmzmNsuUyHw1yUSJxO6cUVP70xG9FBswkfs/img.jpg?width=980"/><small class="image-media media-caption">Penske Logistics truck driver Earl Taylor (standing) speaks during a visit to the White House as President Donald Trump (seated center) listens.</small></p><p>One day when he was in the break room, he saw a posting about the ATA’s America’s Road Team and the selection of a new class of America’s Road Team Captains.</p><p>“I always wanted to do more with my career, so I took this opportunity to get involved. I put my best into it and hoped for the best,” said Taylor, who was attempting to become only the second Penske professional driver to be named a Road Team Captain.</p><p><a href="https://blog.gopenske.com/logistics/penske-truck-driver-neil-kirk-continues-journey-representing-trucking/">Neil Kirk,</a> the first Penske professional driver to be named a Road Team Captain, served as a mentor to Taylor.</p><p>“His influence was instrumental in building confidence in me and helping me believe that I really did have a chance to make this happen,” Taylor said, adding that they worked on mock media training and in mock panel sessions. “I really appreciate his efforts.”</p><p>Once Taylor became a finalist, the pair communicated over the phone and by text message as the time approached for the final selections to be made.</p><p>“I made up my mind that I could accept it either way because anyone who was chosen of the 33 finalists would be worthy, because they were a great bunch of people,” Taylor said. “When I heard my name called, it was surreal.”</p><p>Taylor can now count himself among an elite group of truckers whose role is to promote the trucking industry as well as bring to light issues that impact everyone who shares the road.</p><p>One of the early highlights of his tenure came in March when Taylor traveled to the White House with other Road Team Captains and the ATA to meet President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence and speak on behalf of the trucking industry (pictured above).</p><p>“The president was real open to hearing us and was very concerned about our issues in the trucking industry,” Taylor said. “The president and vice president spoke to each and every one of us and asked us questions. They both wanted our opinions.”</p><p><strong>The Road Ahead</strong></p><p>After his time as Road Team Captain comes to an end in 2018, Taylor intends to continue to spread his safety message in the community – paying particular attention to young drivers and distracted drivers.</p><p>Taylor’s colleagues have applauded his efforts on behalf of the industry and Penske.</p><p>“I’ve been very impressed with the way Earl has responded to the challenge of being a Road Team Captain,” said Paul Penatzer, Senior Operations Manager – PL, Orlando, Florida. “He has gained the respect of his peers and his supervisors due to his level of engagement, his tenacity and the way he has accepted the responsibilities of his new role. I believe he’s becoming a great ambassador to our industry and to Penske.”</p><p>The road that brought him to his current role has had its own share of detours for sure, but Taylor wouldn’t have it any way.</p><p>“I am just beside myself, because I never thought I would make it to this point,” Taylor said. “Things I tried out didn’t work and things that worked out pointed me in this direction. Life has been preparing me for this all the while.”</p><p><em>Interested in a driving career with Penske? Visit </em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/drivers/"><em>gopenske.com/drivers</em></a><em> </em><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"><em>benefits</em></a><em>. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</em></p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Penske’s Earl Taylor Vying to Become ATA Road Team Captain
November 02, 2016
Earl Taylor, a Penske Logistics professional truck driver in Orlando, Florida, is hoping to keep the company’s streak alive and become the second associate in Penske history to serve as a Road Team Captain for the American Trucking Associations. He is seeking to succeed Neil Kirk, who is wrapping up his two-year term.
<p>On October 24, Taylor was announced as one of 33 finalists.</p><p>“These professional drivers were chosen as finalists for America’s Road Team because they are proven industry ambassadors with long safety records and professionalism that projects a positive image of our industry’s 3.5 million truck drivers,” new ATA President Chris Spear told Transport Topics magazine.</p><p><strong>Road Ahead for Taylor</strong></p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="47f4332f9141159db269940f9d8310d6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="8e33e" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODA4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MTIwNDQzOH0.hkk2nzh_-3Wjw4Pf7Tn2nF6OCC76Xndqvsji41TLSe8/img.jpg?width=980"/>The next step for Taylor is to visit ATA’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, in January to make his case before a panel of industry experts.</p><p>“I’m really excited and I would like to thank the ATA for this opportunity,” Taylor explained (the image above was taken from his submission video). ”It gives me a chance to express my true feelings about this industry. I really do have a passion for what I do.</p><p>I think I would be a good Road Team Captain because I’m committed, I love teaching and I love sharing what I know about my profession with others.”</p><p>If Taylor were to make the team, he would promote trucking in 2017 and 2018 before groups that include school-age children and industry professionals.</p><p>He would still work full-time for the company while taking time off occasionally to serve as a Road Team Captain.</p><p>Taylor’s days are currently spent making deliveries of newspaper inserts, appliances and retail merchandise in central Florida, and across the state’s major markets.</p><p><strong>Taylor Great Example for Truck Drivers</strong></p><p>Paul Penatzer, Taylor’s senior operations manager, noted: “Earl has been an excellent employee for us over the last 19-plus years. He gets the job done and gets it done safely. Earl is very supportive of our safety processes and policies. He is a Smith System certified instructor, training our current drivers, and qualifying new driver applicants via road tests."</p><p>Taylor served in the U.S. Army as a tactical operations specialist – it was there that he first gained experience driving vehicles of all weights and sizes, including 5-ton mobile tactical centers, jeeps and tanks.</p><p>In total, he has amassed over 32 years of truck driving experience.</p><p><strong>Captain Kirk’s Time Coming to a Close</strong></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image"><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="f1466bff59eefa639993ab86d9988a8c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="d82ed" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODA4Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NDMwNjQ3MH0.3qyRo4atyRbvSaDA706p3Jo6Yt_PSKUCwQOM-rpKRhw/img.jpg?width=980"/><small class="image-media media-caption">Neil Kirk, Penske Logistics truck driver, made company history when he was named the organization’s first-ever ATA Road Team Captain. Here he is at a conference in April 2016.</small></p><p>Based in Montgomery, New York (outside of New York City), Kirk has grown as a person during his captaincy and got to see <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/logistics/penske-truck-driver-neil-kirk-continues-journey-representing-trucking/">new parts of the country and try new things</a>. “It has been a privilege and honor to represent Penske Logistics,” Kirk said.</p><p>“My favorite type of event was without a doubt the Share the Road program at high schools,” he recounted. “I found it gratifying to share our message of highway safety with the youth of our nation. It was great to start an open dialogue about what everyone’s responsibility is out on the road.”</p><p><strong>Possible New Penske Road Team Captain </strong></p><p>Taylor has stressed the importance of readiness for drivers. He wants them to follow his lead by eating well, exercising regularly and getting the right amount of sleep. “I want to see drivers be safe and be prepared,” he said.</p><p>Most importantly, Taylor implores his fellow drivers to “have a clear head when coming to work and coming prepared to drive a truck,” and to limit personal distractions that may affect a driver on the road.</p><p>The present Road Team Captain has some advice for the hopeful.</p><p>“To Earl, I say give it your best shot,” Kirk said. “Remember that you represent Penske Logistics and that your actions will have a lasting impression on everyone you meet. “</p><p><em>By Alen Beljin</em></p></div>
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Neil Kirk Readies for ATA America’s Road Team Nomination Process
November 03, 2014
“I've been looking forward to this opportunity for two years,” said Kirk, a truck driver in the New York City metro area, who became a Penske Logistics associate in 2008. “I’m better prepared this time around. Last time, I walked away bruised. I won’t be nervous or intimidated now.”
<p>Kirk is always up for a challenge. He skillfully navigates his rig through traffic-congested New York City and delivers medical supplies to hospitals down the city’s narrow alleys and tight loading docks on a daily basis.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="63bfb9f89433e38571d00cfc86aea7d2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="13247" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzQ3MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQyNDc1N30.fhh1ArJOhcMwr8aAgmaJ7CcfxhslNWaO0ppHJu3ayyc/img.jpg?width=980"/>To aid his candidacy, Kirk has submitted a professional video and is fine-tuning his presentation skills for his in-person meetings with ATA judges in Arlington, Virginia. He will present 3-5 minutes on a subject in trucking in January, followed by a Q&A.</p><p>“I have the benefit of that first experience and I have grown personally from it," Kirk noted. "Now I can better articulate my positions in the industry.”</p><p>Kirk went on to explain the experiences of U.S. senator Cory Booker and how he learned from losing his first mayoral race in Newark, New Jersey. “Booker doubled down and worked harder after his loss,” Kirk said. Booker enjoyed success as Newark’s mayor before being elected to the senate last year.</p><p>Kirk wanted to be more impactful in the industry so he has taken a part-time job as a truck driver instructor. “While the driving school teaches new recruits what is needed to pass the driving test, I talk to them about the industry, safety and the important role that trucking plays in our everyday lives,” he detailed.</p><p>“I share with them how being a professional truck driver has changed my life for the better.”</p><p>Kirk will no doubt be a strong candidate for America’s Road Team this time around.</p><p><em>By Alen Beljin</em></p><p><em>Read more about <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/?s=Neil+Kirk">Kirk here</a>. </em></p></div>
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Penske Driver Nominated for America’s Road Team
September 15, 2014
Every two years, America’s Road Team conducts a search for the nation’s best drivers. Penske Logistics driver Neil Kirk has been nominated to join this elite crew.
<p><a href="http://www.truckline.com/Road_Team.aspx">America’s Road Team</a> is a national public outreach program that consists of professional truck drivers who share both superior driving skills and safety records. These drivers are nominated by their employers as ambassadors of safety on the highway.</p><p>The most recent team has logged nearly a combined 40 million accident-free miles. The team’s emphasis on safe driving is a badge of honor for truck drivers like Kirk.</p><p>“Because of the size of the vehicle, special training and special awareness are required,” explained Kirk. “It’s something in which me and all the other great drivers out there find a lot of pride.”</p><p>Paul Emmert, operations manager at Penske, nominated Kirk for this honor. The two have worked together for several years.</p><p>“What makes Neil a special driver are his priorities,” Emmert said. “Neil’s priorities have always been safety and the satisfaction of his customers. He takes a lot of pride in what he does, and he constantly supports a positive image for Penske.”</p><p>As an advanced instructor for professional driver training course Smith System, Kirk uses his passion for safety and gives hands-on safety training to the fleet’s new recruits, plus the more seasoned drivers.</p><p>“Safety is so important to me because I have family that’s on the road every single day,” Kirk said. “Not only do I want them to be safe on the road, but I also want to make it home to them every night.”</p><p>Kirk leads a group of 80 fellow drivers as elected shop steward and helps maintain the drivers’ morale. His route includes the New York Metropolitan area, where he delivers medical supplies. When dealing with such important cargo, Kirk feels that being safe and timely are both critical.</p><p>“Many times I’ve backed up into a hospital loading dock, and people are in OR scrubs waiting for some vital equipment,” Kirk said. “When people rely on your cargo that much, being safe and efficient really are the most important things.”</p><p>America’s Road Team finalists will be selected Oct. 20, followed by the announcement of the 2015-2016 America’s Road Team in January.</p><p>Are you a hard-working driver who shares Kirk’s passion for safety? Visit <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/drivers/">GoPenske.com/drivers</a> for employment opportunities. The company offers competitive wages and a wide range of <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html">benefits</a>. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</p><p>Editor’s Note: In recognition of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week Sept. 14-20, Penske is celebrating our 3000 dedicated drivers who ensure safe, prompt and seamless delivery of our customer’s goods while maintaining the highest level of safety and customer service.</p><p><em>By Tony Kozuch</em></p></div>
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Penske Logistics Driver Named America’s Road Team Finalist
October 31, 2012
Penske Logistics driver Neil Kirk is among the 32 truck drivers recently named as finalists in the selection process to become Captains for American Trucking Assocations’ 2012-2013 America’s Road Team. This group of professional truck drivers share superior driving skills and safety records, and help spread the word about safety on the highway.
<p>Kirk and the other 31 drivers will move on to the final round of the selection process Jan. 6-8, 2013, in Arlington, Va. A panel of industry officials and trucking news media will judge the finalists on their knowledge of the trucking industry, dedication to safety, ability to communicate the industry’s messages and overall safe driving record.</p><p>Being a voice for this safety team is a true honor for proud truck drivers like Kirk.</p><p>“It would be the greatest honor to represent the trucking industry as an American Road Team Captain,” said Kirk, a professional truck driver for 28 years, four of those at Penske. “Trucking is the backbone of our great nation, ensuring that businesses have the means to continue operation and people have the resources they need to live.”</p><p>Kirk delivers hospital supplies in and around the New York Metropolitan area. His supervisor, Paul Emmert, nominated him for his exceptional communication skills, his positive relationship with his peers, his exemplary attitude and, above all, his stellar safety record of almost 2.9 million accident/injury-free miles.</p><p>“I have had the pleasure to know and interact with Neil since he became an associate of Penske in 2008 and am extremely pleased to see his selection as a finalist to America’s Road Team,” said Dennis Abruzzi, senior vice president of Penske’s East region. “Neil’s passion for customers and his professional performance on the highway each and every day is a true credit to his character. We wish Neil the best as he enters the final round of selection and want him to know how proud we are at Penske Logistics of his accomplishments to date.”</p><p>Following the announcement Jan. 9, new America’s Road Team Captains will begin their two- year term working to share the industry’s safety and sustainability messages with the national public, news media, businesses and community leaders, public officials and fellow drivers.</p><p>Are you a hard-working driver who shares Kirk’s passion for safety? Visit <a href="http://gopenske.com/drivers">http://gopenske.com/drivers</a> for employment opportunities. The company offers competitive wages and a wide range of benefits. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</p><p><em>By Kandace Wertz</em></p><p></p><div class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="779HLJ1571657560" id="cbb69"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet twitter-custom-tweet" data-partner="rebelmouse" data-twitter-tweet-id="263704531223846912"><div style="margin:1em 0">Penske Logistics driver named ATA America's Road Team finalist
http://t.co/HsHhlVTl</div> — Penske Truck Leasing (@Penske Truck Leasing)<a href="https://twitter.com/PenskeNews/statuses/263704531223846912">1351707034.0</a></blockquote></div><p></p></div>
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Penske Driver Nominated for America’s Road Team
September 18, 2012
Every two years, America’s Road Team searches for the country’s top drivers. This year,Penske Logistics driver Neil Kirk has been nominated to be a part of the best of the best.
<p>Created by <a href="http://www.truckline.com/">American Trucking Assocations</a>, <a href="http://www.americasroadteam.com/">America’s Road Team</a> is a national public outreach program led by a group of professional truck drivers – nominated by their employers – who share superior driving skills and safety records, along with a desire to spread the word about safety on the highway.</p><p>The 2011-2012 team has 511 years of experience and has logged more than 38.2 million accident-free miles. Being a voice for this safety team is a true honor for proud truck drivers like Kirk.</p><p>“It would be the greatest honor to represent the trucking industry as an American Road Team Captain,” said Kirk, a professional truck driver for 28 years, four of those at Penske. “Trucking is the backbone of our great nation, ensuring that business have the means to continue operation and people have the resources they need to live.”</p><p>Kirk delivers hospital supplies in and around the New York Metropolitan area. His supervisor, Paul Emmert, nominated him for his exceptional communication skills, his positive relationship with his peers, his exemplary attitude and, above all, his stellar safety record of almost 2.9 million accident/injury-free miles.</p><p>“The pride that Neil has for our industry shows every day, especially when I speak to Neil’s customers, who have only compliments about the quality and professionalism he portrays daily,” said Emmert, operations manager for Penske Logistics.</p><p>Safety and courtesy are Kirk’s top priorities as a truck driver. He serves as an advanced instructor for professional driver training course <a href="http://www.smith-system.com/">Smith System</a>, giving critical hands-on safety training to both the fleet’s newest recruits and the more seasoned drivers.</p><p>“I know that possessing a heightened awareness toward safety is crucial for keeping the roads and highways a safe place for other drivers to work and, more importantly, their respective families to travel on,” said Kirk, who is a two-time Penske Safety Performance Award winner.</p><p>As a driver-elected shop steward, Kirk leads his peers of 80 fellow drivers and helps maintain the drivers’ morale.</p><p>“I understand the role that our attitude and dedication as a team has on the success of Penske and on the transportation industry as a whole,” said Kirk, who also has been nominated for the <a href="http://www.trala.org/">Truck Renting and Leasing Association’s (TRALA)</a> Driver of the Year Award. “How we conduct ourselves on the job as truck drivers is what shapes the general public’s impression of all professional truck drivers.”</p><p>America’s Road Team finalists will be selected Oct. 29, followed by the announcement of the 2013-2014 America’s Road Team Jan. 8.</p><p>Are you a hard-working driver who shares Kirk’s passion for safety? Visit <a href="http://gopenske.com/drivers">http://gopenske.com/drivers</a> for employment opportunities. The company offers competitive wages and a wide range of benefits. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</p><p>Editor’s Note: In recognition of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week Sept. 17-21, Penske is celebrating our 2,900 dedicated drivers who ensure safe, prompt and seamless delivery of our customer’s goods while maintaining the highest level of safety and customer service.</p><p></p><div class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="GP3PEN1571657546" id="cc337"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet twitter-custom-tweet" data-partner="rebelmouse" data-twitter-tweet-id="248124488175202304"><div style="margin:1em 0">Penske Logistics truck driver nominated for America’s Road Team http://t.co/H8QwQOs8 #TruckDriverAppreciationWeek</div> — Penske Truck Leasing (@Penske Truck Leasing)<a href="https://twitter.com/PenskeNews/statuses/248124488175202304">1347992462.0</a></blockquote></div><p></p><p><em>By Kandace Wertz</em></p></div>
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