Penske Cited as 2019 Military-Friendly Employer
October 15, 2018
Penske Truck Leasing and Penske Logistics are 2019 Military-Friendly Employers. Both companies earned entry onto the list created by VIQTORY media, the publisher of G.I. Jobs and Military Spouses magazines.
<p>This list was created with the help of an independent research firm and proprietary survey information from participating organizations.</p><p>“We have been steadfast in our commitment to hiring military veterans and active Guard and Reserve personnel,” explained Jennifer Sockel, Penske Truck Leasing senior vice president of human resources. “Their experiences and training have helped make Penske a transportation industry leader.”</p><p>Penske promotes employment opportunities in military publications, on veterans' job boards, and through exclusive partnerships with military-friendly organizations including ESGR, G.I. Jobs, RecruitMilitary, Military Officers Association of America, VetCentral, Bradley-Morris, Inc., Lucas Group, VRS Virtual Veteran Career Fairs, Hirepurpose and Corporate America Supports You.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a5f55c69a721292f7a90357a120570dd" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="7d8da" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODY0My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMzQ3Nzc4MH0.LD3jez6eeMqA2b-10Phozyor9r8UgnZCFGGuOcv0tGs/img.jpg?width=980"/>Penske has teamed up with Veteran Recruiting (VR) and other leading employers to support the VetFriendly Jobs Initiative to hire or train 100,000 veterans by 2020.</p><p>Penske was one of many companies that joined efforts with VR to support the White House Joining Forces Initiative, which led to the hiring of 170,000 veterans between 2011 and 2016.</p><p>Sean Wilkins, Penske’s manager for military recruiting stated: “We are excited to expand our veteran employment efforts by strengthening relationships with military installations, improving our communication with top military talent, and building company-wide programs that help veterans successfully transition to Penske.”</p><p><u><a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/" rel="noopener">Penske Truck Rental</a></u> joined with Paralyzed Veterans five years ago to create the #OneWay4PVA campaign, which encourages rental customers to donate $1 to Paralyzed Veterans’ <u><a href="https://www.pensketruckrental.com/discounts/mission-able/" rel="noopener">Mission: ABLE campaign</a></u>.</p><p>Since 2013, the generosity of one-way rental customers, along with Penske donations on all one-way moves, have resulted in around $2.2 million for Paralyzed Veterans. Penske Truck Rental is a division of <u><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/" rel="noopener">Penske Truck Leasing.</a></u></p><p>Over the last three years, veterans represented 9 percent of all Penske new hires.</p><p>Visit <a href="http://www.GoPenske.com/veterans" rel="noopener">www.GoPenske.com/veterans</a> for more information on career opportunities.</p><p><em>By “Move Ahead” Staff</em></p></div>
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Marine Veteran Charts Successful Career at Penske
May 26, 2017
Fresh from his tour in the Marine Corps, Cristian Raymundo wanted more than just a job when he settled back into civilian life.
<p>A chance meeting at an employment event for veterans set Raymundo on a path that would lead him to the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Norwood, Massachusetts, and a successful career with Penske.</p><p></p><p>Now, five years into his Penske career, Raymundo has worked his way up from apprentice technician to branch service manager at the Boston location.</p><p>“I have been so blessed in my career progression,” Raymundo said. “Penske is not a job but a career.”</p><p>By the year 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor projects that there will be more than 1.2 million jobs in the collision, automotive, motorcycle and marine industries, according to UTI.</p><p>UTI offers post-secondary education for students interested in careers in professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. It operates 12 campuses across the country and has graduated more than 200,000 students over the past 51 years.</p><p>Penske has aligned with schools like UTI because it recognizes the pivotal role technicians play in the transportation industry.</p><p>“I am a big supporter of Universal Technical Institute,” Roger Penske, Founder and Chairman of Penske Corporation, told <a href="https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/roger-penske-nascar-interview.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">Inc.com</a> in a recent interview. “Technician is one of the most important jobs at our automotive and trucking businesses.”</p><p>“UTI has graduated more than 200,000 technicians but has built a reputation on the quality and training its program provides and the success of its graduates,” Mr. Penske said. “UTI offers programs supported and branded by many different manufacturers and using the latest and most up-to-date technology.”</p><p>It was during a conversation with a UTI representative that Raymundo realized that he could turn his affinity for working on cars into a viable career, so he decided to enroll in the Diesel & Industrial Technology program at UTI’s Norwood campus.</p><p>“Initially, I did not have an interest in diesel, but I figured I would learn about it because it probably would help me out somewhere down the line,” Raymundo said.</p><p>It paid off sooner than he anticipated when he landed a part-time job with Penske’s Boston location. And after five promotions, he has never left.</p><p>“I always liked working here because everyone was honest, friendly and were always looking out for my best interest,” Raymundo said. “I enjoy the challenge, but I enjoy the relationship we have here in Boston as a team and the opportunities they have given me in order to succeed in my career.”</p><p>During his time at UTI, Raymundo became a national finalist for the Roger Penske Outstanding Student Award.</p><p>The award recognizes exceptional UTI students who are dedicated to succeeding in the automotive services industry while at the same time demonstrating an ability to assist other students to do the same.</p><p>It is a quality that has followed Raymundo from the classroom to the workplace.</p><p>“Cristian’s outstanding academic achievement – and the leadership and service he demonstrated in the classroom while at Universal Technical Institute – reflect the success he has had at Penske,” said Shawn Alexander, president of the Norwood Campus, <a href="http://braintree.wickedlocal.com/news/20161124/braintree-resident-named-penske-service-manager" rel="noopener noreferrer">recently</a>. “We are proud to have him as a graduate of the UTI-Norwood Campus.”</p><p>Raymundo said he is very grateful for the education he received as a UTI student.</p><p>“UTI gave me a solid base to be able to understand my job better. I didn’t know how to repair everything after graduating, but UTI gave me the foundation that allowed me to understand what I was working on and how it operated and allowed me to think outside the box on how to repair and how items worked,” Raymundo said.</p><p>For students – and veterans – looking for a company offering advancement, Raymundo said they should explore Penske.</p><p>“Penske is not a job but a career. It will give you as much as you put into it, and if you want to continue learning and working on the most current engines and technology, this is the place to be,” he said. “Here at Penske, it doesn’t matter if you are new or old to the field; you will always learn something new and will continue to expand your knowledge.”</p><p><span class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="34f9a9595dfd09577454409b225b272b" 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/UJO1D80QWrk?rel=0" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;" width="100%"></iframe></span></p><p><em>Penske Truck Leasing and Penske Logistics offer a wide range of career opportunities, including: truck fleet maintenance technicians, truck drivers, fleet maintenance supervisors, operations management roles, as well as logistics and supply chain operations roles and many others. Visit</em> <a href="http://www.gopenske.com/careers/veterans" rel="noopener noreferrer">GoPenske.com/careers/veterans</a> <em>for more information on career opportunities.</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 Veteran Awarded Purple Heart for Service in Afghanistan
November 10, 2016
Just as he had many times, Jeff Rutkowski slipped into the driver’s seat of his military security vehicle and headed out from his Afghanistan Marine base to help watch over a supply convoy bringing much-needed supplies to infantry units on the front lines.
<p>“There was only one road in Afghanistan,” Rutkowski said, “and other than that, we created our own roads just driving through the desert, and pretty much they were laced the whole way with mines.”</p><p>It was during this supply run in October 2009 that Rutkowski suffered a concussion when his vehicle struck one of those mines and soon after came under mortar fire overhead from the Taliban.</p><p>Now a Tech II at Penske’s Montgomery, New York, district, Rutkowski received a <a href="http://www.purpleheart.org/HistoryOrder.aspx">Purple Heart</a> for his service, an honor that the humble veteran cherishes.</p><p>“I debated whether to apply for it because there were people who lost their arms and legs, more severe than a concussion,” he said. “But not many people can say that they have a Purple Heart.”</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5fa9cc2e5400b477205928ba5176a357" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="ea316" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODA5Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxOTk3OTgxMX0.g1IqX1_5VMwWS9T-DRgOP1Ka2dPoVF71kmNFNBWt9gk/img.jpg?width=980"/>The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action, according to the Military Order of the Purple Heart.</p><p>After joining the Marine Corps in 2007, Rutkowski, a newlywed with his first child on the way, worked as a diesel mechanic stateside before he was deployed to Afghanistan, where his job changed to convoy security.</p><p>It was not uncommon to have trucks come in contact with roadside improvised explosive devices (IED).</p><p>“We lost about 35 trucks that deployment,” he said. “That was probably in about six months. We hit 35 IEDs; some of the trucks we were able to salvage, but most of the time we had to borrow trucks from the Army and the Navy.”</p><p>On the day of his injury, Rutkowski’s truck began as the second in a convoy that left for the treacherous drive to Now Zad in Helmand Province, along a dirt road littered with explosives beneath and the threat of mortar shorts from the Taliban overhead.</p><p>It would soon become first.</p><p>The lead vehicle struck an IED, the force of the blast ripping off the front of the truck. Rutkowski’s vehicle was now on point, leading the convoy. A half-hour later, Rutkowski’s truck was the next to be claimed by a roadside explosive.</p><p>“We were trying to recover the vehicle,” he said. “We started getting random mortar shots. We called for a helicopter to give us ground cover while we tried to recover the vehicle. Then they had to leave. As we took off, they started shooting again, and we carried on with our mission.”</p><p>Rutkowski arrived at his destination suffering from a concussion as a result of the blast. After a few days, he was transferred back to his base and then eventually stateside, arriving in time to celebrate Thanksgiving Day in 2009 with his loved ones. “It was a present for us,” he said.</p><p>He would later decide to remain stateside and finish out his enlistment. Since retiring from the Marines, Rutkowski, a father to a son and two daughters, has spent the last three years as a Penske associate.</p><p>Mark Weiss, Branch Service Manager at the Montgomery district, said Rutkowski is a natural leader based on his qualities he brings to team building, attention to detail and focus to the task at hand.</p><p>“Jeff is a very hard working, dependable, caring, kind and compassionate individual,” Weiss said. “He absolutely deserved this award. Fighting for our country while his wife was pregnant with his first child shows his loyalty to our country.”</p><p>When Rutkowski became injured, his son was just 2 years old. Now 9, he understands the role his father played in serving his country.</p><p>“I have a shadow box of my military service. It has my uniform and all the ribbons and medals that I have; my dog tags, part of the IED, part of the truck that was blown up,” Rutkowski said. “Anytime his friends come over, he tells them ‘My Dad is a Marine.’ He is so happy to tell them about it.”</p><p>“I didn’t think that I could be like that for my son,” Rutkowski said. “He calls me his hero.”</p><p><em>As part of Penske’s recognition of Veterans Day, we are profiling associates who are military veterans. Penske </em><em>has earned recognition as a top </em><a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-is-top-military-friendly-employer-for-fifth-straight-year/"><em>military-friendly</em></a><em> </em><em>and </em><a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/penske-careers/penske-ranked-among-top-10-vetfriendly-employers-in-virtual-career-fairs/"><em>vet-friendly</em></a><em> </em><em>employer. Over the last three years, veterans have represented 11.4 percent of all new hires. For more information about Penske’s open positions for veterans, visit </em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/veterans/"><em>Penske’s post-military careers</em></a><em> </em><em>page. Penske offers competitive wages and a wide range of </em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html"><em>benefits</em></a><em>. </em><em>Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</em></p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Trucking-Fueled TV Storylines Lead to Life-Long Career Choice
September 16, 2016
As tales of trucking life leapt from the small screen, in such 1970s and ‘80s television programs as “Movin’ On” and “BJ and The Bear,” a teenaged Brian Tolle found himself drawn to the freedom of a life lived on the road.
<p>Never one to be in favor of the confining space of an office or warehouse job, Tolle found himself considering trucking as a career because it looked interesting, he liked to drive and wanted the opportunity to travel.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a3bd6b678712c7f9ebfb77dd96cb35cb" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="04848" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyODA1My9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODA5MDQ2Mn0.D7g5jnrGidDK3oqr88YX8K4ZnHkKRuRJk7pjmBEVR_g/img.png?width=980"/>“I still enjoy this job after 35 years,” said Tolle, a <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/">Penske Logistics</a> driver (pictured right). “I am not a young guy like when I started at 25 years old, but I still like the appeal.”</p><p>So has the television and movie industry, which has produced trucking-themed entertainment dating back to “<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0033149/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">They Drive By Night,</a>” released in 1940, starring Humphrey Bogart as an independent truck driver struggling to make ends meet during the Great Depression.</p><p>“There was a time when big rig drivers were looked on as free spirits and even maybe romantic, but not so much today,” said Howard Buck, CEO of <a href="http://www.studioservices.com/">Studio Services Inc</a>., which represents Penske vehicles for product placement opportunities in film and television.</p><p>Yet, the 1970s could be considered the golden era for movies depicting trucking life with the release of <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077369/?ref_=nv_sr_1">“Convoy”</a> as well as the <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0076729/?ref_=nv_sr_1">“Smokey and The Bandit”</a> series.</p><p>“I think the Smokey and the Bandit film with Jerry Reed, a popular country singer at the time, playing a free-spirited character Cledus, is possibly the very best example of a loveable sidekick who happens to be a very good big rig driver,” Buck said.</p><p>The Sylvester Stallone film “Over the Top” is “another great example of a lovable character struggling to make a living with his old rig,” Buck said. “It is not hard to pull for him to win and get his life’s dream – a new tractor.”</p><p>While storylines may have slowed, placement of trucks, including some Penske trucks, can be found in some of today’s most popular summer films, including blockbusters like <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-truck-rental-appears-in-the-amazing-spider-man/">“The Amazing Spiderman”</a> and <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-part-of-marvels-captain-america-the-winter-soldier-video/">“Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”</a></p><p>“Because of our relationship with the motion picture industry, Penske Truck Rental is the number one brand used for production equipment rentals,” Buck said. “If a film is specifically looking for a semi-truck, delivery van, or moving vehicle, we will get the first call.”</p><p>For his part, Tolle said he looks back fondly at those old programs that helped him choose a life-long career.</p><p>Interested in a driving career with Penske? Visit <a href="http://www.GoPenske.com/drivers">www.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"> </a><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html">benefits</a>. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Penske Hiring Body Shop Technicians in Connecticut
July 20, 2016
Penske plans to hire body shop technicians at a special Open House Tuesday, July 26, at the Penske Truck Rental location at 283 Burnham Street, East Hartford, Connecticut. The event is also commemorating the 10th anniversary of the location.
<p>Interested candidates can attend between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.</p><p>As a body shop technician, you will have a variety of responsibilities and opportunities, including:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Diagnosing and repairing a variety of issues with a modern rental fleet</li> <li>Using state-of-the-art equipment to fulfill customer needs</li> <li>Working as part of a team with shared goals</li> <li>Ongoing training with opportunities for advancement</li></ul><p>Visit <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/">gopenske.com/careers</a> for a list of available positions.</p><p><em>By "Move Ahead" staff</em></p></div>
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Smith System Training Helps Keep Drivers Safe
June 16, 2016
Penske’s professional truck drivers spend much of their days on busy roads, often surrounded by other vehicles. With all the potential distractions, safe driving is paramount.
<p>To stay safe on the roads, Penske drivers utilize specialized training from the <a href="https://www.drivedifferent.com/">Smith System</a> -- a leading provider of collision avoidance driver training. Developed over 60 years ago, the training focuses on preventing accidents by learning avoidance techniques, as well as practicing them consistently.</p><p>“Smith System is a critical element to our overall approach to safe operations,” said Rob Helstrom, Penske’s director of safety and training. “Penske Logistics drivers are professional and understand the challenges associated with operating a commercial motor vehicle.”</p><p>The Smith System prepares the drivers by having them follow five main principles:</p><ol class="ee-ol"> <li><strong>Aim High</strong> – Drivers should focus their attention “high,” so as to view the road as a whole.</li> <li><strong>The Big Picture</strong> – Drivers should be aware of the entirety of their surroundings without distraction.</li> <li><strong>Keep Your Eyes Moving</strong> – Constant eye movement keeps drivers alert and ready to spot any potential risks.</li> <li><strong>Leave Yourself an Out</strong> – Drivers should anticipate choices other drivers might make and allow time and space to avoid incidents that may arise.</li> <li><strong>Make Sure They See You</strong> – Drivers should never assume other drivers can see them.</li></ol><p>Norm Slipski, a Penske driver based out of Pennsylvania, recently had an experience on the road that put his Smith System training to good use.</p><p>During a period of heavy rain, he noticed a driver passing him at a high speed. Using what he learned in training, Slipski knew to anticipate what might happen next and slowed down to give the other driver plenty of space. The other driver began to lose control of his vehicle, but Slipski was able to maintain a safe distance and avoid a collision.</p><p>“If I wasn’t fully aware of my surroundings and using my mirrors, this incident could have been much worse,” said Slipski. “I would have never had the time to stop, and we would have collided.”</p><p>Slipski’s training helped him make the right decisions that day. He’s pleased that Penske requires Smith System training to help keep him and others safe.</p><p>“The Smith System is a great program that hones the skills a driver already has,” said Slipski. “It doesn’t matter if you drive a truck or a car; the principles the Smith System teaches will keep drivers safer.”</p><p>Interested in a driving career with Penske? Visit g<a href="https://www.gopenske.com/drivers/">openske.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><em>By Tony Kozuch</em></p></div>
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Body Shop Artisans Breathe New Life into Damaged Trucks
April 11, 2016
Body shop technicians at Penske Truck Collision Repair Centers specialize in commercial vehicle recovery, repairs and finishing. Each year, body shop technicians repair more than 20,000 commercial vehicles.
<p>Like a sculptor shaping clay, body shop technicians transform trucks – those battered and torn in accidents – back to their original condition for their return to the road.</p><p>“It is a true art,” said Tyler Margison, a technician III at the Penske Truck Collision Repair Center in Hartford, Connecticut. “You have to have a true passion in order to do it.”</p><p>Penske Truck Collision Repair Centers specialize in commercial vehicle recovery, repairs and finishing. Technicians repair everything from minor scrapes and scratches to major body and chassis repairs. Each year, body shop technicians repair more than 20,000 commercial vehicles.</p><p>“Being involved in an accident is stressful and can be a time-consuming responsibility for any customer,” said James Svaasand, vice president, collision center development and operations. “Accidents don’t always happen around the corner; sometimes they occur across the country.”</p><p>The role of body shop technicians is key to returning the commercial vehicles to the road.</p><p>“Serving as a trusted advisor, we are able to offer Penske-class service in the event of an accident by providing detailed electronic estimates with digital photos to assist in making sound repair decisions,” said Svaasand.</p><p>Like many body shop technicians, Margison began in the automotive body repair industry, later transitioning to commercial truck body repairs. One of the glaring differences between the two has been Penske’s working environment.</p><p>“I went from regular automotive to here. The facility has tools, which is awesome because not a lot of shops have tools. At a lot of places, you have to buy those things yourself as a technician, and here, Penske supplies them for you,” Margison said.</p><p>It is part of Penske’s commitment to the success of its body shop technicians.</p><p>“Penske Collision Repair technicians are provided with a clean, safe, well-equipped working environment where they can grow their skills. Regular training and opportunity for advancement, along with competitive compensation and security, allows them to focus on their craft,” Svaasand said.</p><p>“Given all this, each technician is challenged every day to perform to the highest standards while giving them peace of mind their skills are valued and appreciated,” he said.</p><p>Robert Marshall Jr., a technician II in the Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, location, said it was just that challenge that attracted him to his role.</p><p>“Not only is it challenging, it is very exhilarating. You are taking something that has been damaged and putting it back like new again,” Marshall said. “Penske has pride in our fleet, and we are making that pride stand out even though the vehicle has been in an accident.”</p><p>Pride colors Shelly Bourgoin’s role, a truck painter.</p><p>“I do a lot of jobs from start to finish, so if it’s done well, then it feels good inside,” said Bourgoin, who has been with Penske for six years and works in the Hartford location.</p><p>Like others, she pointed to Penske’s commitment to safety and willingness to provide a clean working environment as important aspects of her job.</p><p>Jeff Hursh, lead technician at the Fort Wayne, Indiana, location, has held previous jobs working for others as well as owning an auto body shop of his own and said he wished he would have come to Penske sooner.</p><p>“They are great to work for. We have our own tools. They pay great attention to safety and cleanliness, and there is always work. You will always have a job, and in this economy, that is huge,” Hursh said. “Penske is such a rock-solid place to work. I feel like they really care for their employees, and I have worked for a lot of places that are not that way.”</p><p>Penske offers advancement opportunities for those looking to move through the company.</p><p>“There are always new things you can learn and something to look forward to if you want to stay,” Bourgoin said. “You have to be committed.”</p><p>Hursh agreed.</p><p>“You have to want to work; but the harder you work, the more money you can make. You can move up. There are a lot of options out there for you,” Hursh said. “It is a good place to work if you want to work with your hands. And it is a place that will take care of you for years to come.”</p><p><em>As a body shop technician, you will have a variety of responsibilities and opportunities, including: diagnosing and repairing a variety of issues with a modern rental fleet; using state-of-the-art equipment to fulfill customer needs; working as part of a team with shared goals and ongoing training with opportunities for advancement. Interested in joining Penske? </em><em>V</em><em>isit </em><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/"><em>gopenske.com/careers</em></a><em> for a list of available positions.</em></p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Gregg Mangione, Penske Truck Leasing senior vice president of maintenance, stated that company truck technicians can learn many new things in "our system."
<p>As one of the largest transportation companies in North America, <a href="http://www.GoPenske.com">Penske Truck Leasing</a> has the responsibility of servicing a 231,600-piece equipment fleet on behalf of its customers.</p><p>While an 8,000-person maintenance workforce (representing nearly a third of its global headcount) seems like enough associates to keep trucks of all shapes and sizes running well and on-time, Penske -- much like the rest of the industry – needs more commercial truck mechanics to provide the <a href="https://www.pensketruckleasing.com/full-service-leasing/leasing-services/comprehensive-maintenance/">comprehensive fleet maintenance</a> solutions its customers rely on to keep their businesses moving forward.</p><p>The new chairman of the Technology & Maintenance Council, Douglas White Sr., was recently quoted by <a href="http://ttnews.com/">Transport Topics magazine</a> as stating: “We’re suffering a severe shortage of technicians today.“</p><p>According to an <a href="http://www.trucking.org/">American Trucking Associations</a> news release, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the industry will need to hire 67,000 maintenance professionals by 2022.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a750e8ec319492ed4c06c65f57e5cb49" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="80e42" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzkwMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NzQ4NjcxMH0.CThE9oImRJlOvUxTz4Ocyb7-DlIhdbXkpgxjEUAQ9t0/img.jpg?width=980"/>Ron Schwartz, director of staffing services who works in Penske’s Reading, Pennsylvania, headquarters, stated that adding technicians is one of the top hiring needs in 2016 and beyond.</p><p>By a conservative count, Penske will onboard 2,000 new technicians by 2018.</p><p><strong>Searching Far and Wide to Uncover Talent</strong></p><p>To hear Schwartz explain it one of the solutions involves casting a wide net. Talent is available at technical schools, community colleges and in the military.</p><p>Just how has the company taken a broad approach? Here are a few ways:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>The recruiting team tripled its roster in recent years.</li> <li>There are working relationships with the major U.S. technical schools, which include <a href="http://www.uti.edu/">Universal Technical Institute</a> (UTI), <a href="http://www.wyotech.edu/">WyoTech</a> and <a href="http://www.lincolnedu.com/careers/automotive/diesel-technology">Lincoln Tech</a>. In the last four years graduates from these schools alone have accounted for 30 percent of technician hires.</li> <li>Penske Truck Leasing offers scholarships to UTI students (and current associates). The company also has a general tuition reimbursement program.</li> <li>Outreach to localized technical schools, community colleges with technical programs and high school vo-tech programs.</li> <li>An alignment with <a href="http://www.skillsusa.org/">SkillsUSA</a>, a trade organization with 360,000 members (students, teachers and school personnel) in more than 18,000 sections. Penske takes part in judging and donating equipment for their national diesel technician competition and conference, and serves as judges in state competitions.</li> <li>Expanding outreach to veterans with transportation-related experience via military bases and military hiring organizations.</li> <li>Making use of social media to attract new talent, which includes <a href="https://www.facebook.com/penske">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/GoPenskeCareers">Twitter</a>, web banner advertisements and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJO1D80QWrk">videos</a>.</li></ul><p>“We have a major need for entry-level technicians,” Schwartz stated. “In some cases, they have come to work for us part-time while attending school and we hired them full-time after graduation.”</p><p><strong>There are Careers at Penske</strong></p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="af68be22cb0cfddcde3d68be929398c0" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="17c82" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzkwMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMzY4NjY2Mn0.9U_F1wHLAtedOWWR2Omk7rni26yTPAr-bAiXr03_S5U/img.jpg?width=980"/>Millennials value being developed and seeing a career path laid out before them. Penske offers the opportunity for techs to increase their skillsets and feature multiple levels based on ability and experience. About 42 percent of the company’s starting level technicians are 30 and younger.</p><p>“I don’t think that students and parents understand how big the market is and how many opportunities there are in this field,” said Todd Stokes, Lincoln Tech director of career services & partnerships. “Shop technicians can also go into recruiting and management.”</p><p>Just because a technician graduates from a school in Ohio doesn’t mean he or she needs to remain there. Industry opportunities abound in the Southeast and Southwest parts of the United States, which correlates with the <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-truck-rental-announces-2015-top-moving-destinations/">country’s growth areas</a>.</p><p>“We get students from every corner of the U.S.,” explained John Hurd, a WyoTech industry relations specialist. “They attend our diesel technology programs in Wyoming and Pennsylvania and return back home.”</p><p>Travis Leybeck is a national strategic account manager for UTI. “It has become clear over the last few years that technicians are becoming more and more important to fleet companies and the industry as a whole,” he said. “Having quality technicians has become significantly more important to keeping fleets running.”</p><p>Gregg Mangione was named the company’s senior vice president of maintenance in January. He started 25 years ago as a rental representative and worked his way through a diverse set of management and operations positions with increasing responsibility.</p><p>His personal passion for quality maintenance and technology led to the position he holds today, where he is now focused on how to best maintain one of the most modern and technologically advanced fleets in the industry.</p><p>Mangione laid out the advantages of becoming a maintenance employee.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5b1c3e7ba626495673734f4b3dd73533" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="64c40" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzkwMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNjg2OTQ4MX0.ZBjFRrfFl5IMWSDBj84-cAMVPdYmKYvqkDDVO_riZP8/img.jpg?width=980"/>“They’re joining a company with the depth and resources to help them build a successful career,” Mangione explained on a recent Friday afternoon from his office. “We’re the kind of company that trains you for success in your job and will train you to take on a leadership role if that is what you’re interested in. Many of our maintenance leaders began as technicians in our company.”</p><p>As part of Penske’s multi-million dollar training program, each technician is given about 40 hours annually of training. “If people have the capacity and desire to learn, there are opportunities,” he said.</p><p><strong>Learning Today to Keep Moving Forward</strong></p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ec433bf30262e6fcea5ad76a49c64e78" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="be306" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzkwNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1Mjc4NjkxOH0.0opUWX27kbPJzLZpsSDwSv71UoeGV8d32ZNonMHkXhM/img.jpg?width=980"/>Mangione is referring to the Penske Technician Certification Program. TCP is recognized by the Automotive Training Managers Council as an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Continuing Automotive Service Education (CASE) training program.</p><p>This is an opportunity for an associate to ascend up the ladder: they can work toward becoming a lead technician, a branch service manager or a field vice president.</p><p>Lincoln Tech’s Stokes goes on to explain that the industry is still battling through the perception that the work of a technician in 2016 is dominated by wrench-turning.</p><p>The opposite is actually true and today’s trucks are quite complex electronically. That works out well for the next generation of technicians who grew up with smartphones and social networks.</p><p>“The systems on today’s trucks are entirely different than even 10 years ago,” Mangione pointed out. “There were 350 diagnostic fault codes on a truck manufactured in 2004. Now, there can be up to 2,000 fault codes coming off of a vehicle.</p><p>“Our business model as a company is that we provide newer vehicles to the customer and that means modern trucks for our technicians to triage and diagnose,” he continued. “Our technicians engage with the newest and leading-edge types of issues from a variety of truck manufacturers.”</p><p>In an interview with <a href="http://fleetowner.com/">FleetOwner magazine</a>, Mangione highlighted Penske’s smarter uses of technology.</p><p>“We looked at time and motion studies concerning trips to the toolbox and also trips to the PC and to a central printer,” he stated. “We found that 40 percent to 50 percent of their time was spent moving back and forth from PCs or to go to a printer. Why not use a tablet so all the fault codes and supporting information is right there?”</p><p><strong>Trucks on the Road Equals Business Success</strong></p><p>Technicians do truly play an important role in the success of a multi-billion dollar company like Penske Truck Leasing.</p><p>“It is all about the customer,” Mangione summarized. “As their key partner, our customers’ businesses are best supported when Penske rented and leased trucks are operating at maximum capacity. We need good men and women who want the satisfaction of fixing a truck and enjoy the challenges of being in this industry.”</p><p>To learn more about opportunities across North America with Penske Truck Leasing <a href="http://penske.jobs/vehicle-maintenancemechanicstechnicians-jobs/new-jobs/">click here.</a></p><p><em>By Alen Beljin</em></p></div>
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american trucking associations
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business truck rental
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employment
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full service leasing
jobs
Lincoln Tech
transportation
truck maintenance
truck maintenance technicians
Universal Technical Institute
UTI
WyoTech
Penske Ranked Among Top 10 VetFriendly Employers in Virtual Career Fairs
February 15, 2016
For the second year in a row, Penske has been voted a Top 10 VetFriendly Employer in a survey of more than 62,000 veterans who participated in virtual career fairs with Veteran Recruiting.
Penske offers an ideal opportunity for veterans to transition their skills and expertise into careers ranging from truck drivers and maintenance technicians to management jobs in truck rental, leasing and logistics.
<p>“Our customers rely on Penske to provide vital services, transporting everything from food for local communities to supplies and products for global companies,” said Jennifer Sockel, senior vice president of human resources at Penske. “Veterans bring teamwork and leadership skills and a work ethic that helps us deliver outstanding customer service.”</p><p>Penske participated in eight Veteran Recruiting career fairs in 2015, with recruiters hosting real-time chats with active duty service members, military spouses, reservists and veterans. Veteran Recruiting emailed the 62,000 participants in the career fairs, asking them to vote for the most veteran-friendly companies, considering factors such as commitment to hiring veterans and follow-up after the career fairs.</p><p>Penske plans to participate in 12 <a href="http://veteranrecruiting.com/">Veteran Recruiting virtual career fairs</a> during 2016.</p><p>In 2015, approximately 11 percent of Penske’s newly hired associates were veterans, and the <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-honors-veterans-for-selfless-service-to-country-and-community/">company employs a total of more than 1,800 veterans</a>. For the past five years, Penske has also been included on the <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-is-top-military-friendly-employer-for-fifth-straight-year/">Top 100 Military-Friendly Employer and Military Spouse-Friendly Employer</a> list compiled by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs and Military Spouse magazines.</p><p>Penske also partners with the <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/lease/penske-recognized-for-support-of-paralyzed-veterans/">Paralyzed Veterans of America</a> and has raised more than $1 million to support medical care and employment opportunities for wounded veterans.</p><p><em>By “Move Ahead” Staff</em></p></div>
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Penske Hiring Body Shop Technicians in Maryland
February 10, 2016
Penske's body shop technician team
<p><a href="https://www.gopenske.com">Penske</a> plans to hire body shop technicians at an Open House Tuesday, Feb. 16, at the Penske Truck Rental location at 8820 Corridor Road, Annapolis Junction, Maryland.</p><p>Interested candidates can attend between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.</p><p>As a body shop technician, you will have a variety of responsibilities and opportunities, including:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Diagnosing and repairing a variety of issues with a modern rental fleet</li> <li>Using state-of-the-art equipment to fulfill customer needs</li> <li>Working as part of a team with shared goals</li> <li>Ongoing training with opportunities for advancement</li></ul><p>Visit <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/">gopenske.com/careers</a> for a list of available positions.</p><p><em>By "Move Ahead" staff</em></p></div>
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Penske Recognized by Lincoln Technical College
February 09, 2016
Penske Truck Leasing in Denver received the Employer of the Year award from Lincoln Technical College. Accepting the award are associates (from left) Monty Younce, area maintenance manager; Zach Endicott, district manager; Cecil Reed, district service manager; and Michael Campbell, area human resources manager.
<p><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/">Penske Truck Leasing</a> in Denver recently received the Employer of the Year Award from Lincoln Technical College.</p><p>The award is given to outstanding employers that demonstrate a long-term commitment to the school and their graduates by offering internships and employment, and developing unique relationships with students.</p><p>Zachary Endicott, Penske’s district manager at the Denver location, says that his team is honored to receive this award for the first time.</p><p>“Over the past 12 months, we have developed a deep relationship with Lincoln Tech,” Endicott said. “We’re providing VIP tours for graduating classes, so they can see what it will be like to actually work in the diesel industry after graduation.”</p><p>Because of this budding relationship, several Lincoln Tech graduates already work as full-time associates at the Denver location, along with a few current students on a part-time basis.</p><p>“I think it’s really important to have a relationship with a community organization like Lincoln Tech because it gives us a constant feeder pipeline of top-quality, entry-level students,” said Endicott. “We also get our name in front of students every day, so they know that we are the employer of choice once they do graduate.”</p><p>Endicott believes the relationship between Penske and the school has been positive.</p><p>“The relationship between Penske and Lincoln Tech has been beneficial all-around, and we are so thankful for this award,” said Endicott.</p><p>Interested in 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 Tony Kozuch</em></p></div>
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Veteran Shines in Maintenance Role
February 01, 2016
Sabrina Russell (left), a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves, applies her military skills in her maintenance supervisor role at Penske Truck Leasing in Austin, Texas.
<p>Sabrina Russell, a maintenance supervisor at <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/">Penske Truck Leasing</a> in Austin, Texas, credits her time in the military for giving her the skills she needs to get the job done.</p><p>“My time spent in the military has given me discipline, patience and mechanical skills, all of which are used on a daily basis here with Penske,” said Russell, who is responsible for coordinating and scheduling repairs, and performing mechanical and electrical repairs to vehicles.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image"><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3576d5633fd3240260259830bb220fd7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="6939f" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzg0Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NDIyNTY4OX0.enmdAsc7HrWboJEC6QHObIvDfIRi9yYWfl2LBq2BVUc/img.jpg?width=980"/><small class="image-media media-caption">Russell in the U.S. Army Reserves</small></p><p>Russell started building her skillset after joining the U.S. Army Reserves in 1996. She spent the next few years performing a variety of tasks, including preparing units for shipment to Iraq and Afghanistan. Because of her hard work, Russell received an Army Commendation Medal for service at the Port of Philadelphia.</p><p>Russell said that her past experiences have enabled her to build a unique and useful skillset in the workforce. Her military background has also aided her in navigating difficult situations in her life and career.</p><p>“Things are very fast-paced working at Penske,” Russell said. “Work needs to be done correctly and efficiently the first time.”</p><p>Russell’s dedication to excellence suits Penske well, according to Ebony Owens, Manager – Human Resources.</p><p>“Her dedication, strong discipline and respect for her peers have accelerated her career thus far with Penske,” said Owens. “She really is a jewel of an employee.”</p><p>Because of her own success, Russell feels Penske is a good fit for other veterans who might be looking for a new challenge.</p><p>“Even though Penske trucks are a bit different than the equipment I worked on in the military, Penske has given me many opportunities to enhance my technical knowledge and to grow with the company,” said Russell.</p><p>Are you a veteran who wants to put your hard-earned mechanical skills to good use? <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/veterans/">Consider joining our highly skilled technician team.</a> Penske offers competitive wages and a wide range of benefits. Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.</p><p><em>By Tony Kozuch</em></p></div>
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Penske Hiring 24/7 Roadside Assistance Coordinators in Reading, Pa.
December 28, 2015
24/7 Roadside Assistance Coordinator at Penske Truck Leasing
<p><a href="https://www.gopenske.com/">Penske</a> plans to hire 24/7 Roadside Assistance Coordinators at an Open House Jan. 6, 2016, at Penske’s Corporate Office, 2675 Morgantown Road, Reading, Pennsylvania 19607.</p><p>Interested candidates can attend one of two sessions:</p><p>11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.</p><p>2 – 3:30 p.m.</p><p>(Additional session times may be added, if needed.)</p><p>As a Penske Roadside Assistance Coordinator, you will:</p><ul class="ee-ul"> <li>Provide emergency roadside assistance to customers 24/7, 365 days a year</li> <li>Assess and diagnose vehicle failures through careful inquiry</li> <li>Dispatch appropriate service to customers based on the nature of each breakdown</li> <li>Answer customer inquiries regarding the maintenance and operations of over 200,000 consumer, commercial and full-service leasing vehicles nationwide in our state-of-the-art call center</li></ul><p>To apply or to register for the Open House, please visit <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/">gopenske.com/careers</a> and search Job ID: 1510829, or email <a href="mailto:OvertheRoad@penske.com">OvertheRoad@penske.com</a>.</p><p><span class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="19d75b9b7d5f2e23dbcb5d85cff96099" 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/g6hIZKne138?rel=0" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;" width="100%"></iframe></span></p><p><span class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="2a2d66a47d1af0aa8d36442dbb332fbc" 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/pF9l0-WrZL8?rel=0" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;" width="100%"></iframe></span></p><p><em>By “Move Ahead” staff</em></p></div>
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FMCSA, Penske Support Programs to Place Veterans in Commercial Truck Driver Positions
December 10, 2015
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has awarded $2.3 million in grants to 13 technical and community colleges across the country to help train veterans and their families for jobs as commercial bus and truck drivers.
<p>“One of the most important, fastest-growing employment sectors is for qualified commercial vehicle drivers, and veterans bring invaluable experience to the industry and can enter the workforce quickly,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “We support job opportunities for veterans who have served our country, but not only because it is the right thing to do — it also makes good sense.”</p><p>The FMCSA has doubled the funds, which are issued through the Commercial Motor Vehicle – Operator Safety Training grant program, from what it issued last year.</p><p>“We doubled the amount we have previously provided through this grant program because of the important role qualified commercial truck and bus drivers hold in moving our economy forward,” said FMCSA Acting Administrator Scott Darling. “The men and women who complete these commercial driver training programs also serve our country in a vital way by making safety their top priority every mile, every day.”</p><h3>Penske Recruits, Serves Veterans</h3><p>Penske Truck Leasing and Penske Logistics are <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/veterans/">actively recruiting and hiring veterans</a> nationwide and have committed to hiring several hundred U.S. military veterans and their spouses into their workforce over the next several years through the <a href="http://www.uschamberfoundation.org/hiring-our-heroes">U.S. Chamber of Commerce Hiring Our Heroes program</a>. In 2014, 13 percent of Penske’s new hires were veterans.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d0ff7ec8556ebe252e7ce6bc35c9ed58" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="ca3c8" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzgwNy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NDcwMTY2NH0.dDfzWtsp5mEECPsfgJ0CjIxogDb8Fy0ruYIHqsB8SMk/img.jpg?width=980"/></p><p>Jennifer Sockel, Penske senior vice president of human resources, said, “We’ve had continuous success hiring veterans and their spouses onto our team and we value their experience, training and dedication to excellence in supporting our customers.”</p><p>In recognition of its efforts, Penske Truck Leasing and Penske Logistics have appeared on the <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/news/penske-is-top-military-friendly-employer-for-fifth-straight-year/">Victory Media Top 100 Military-Friendly Employer list</a>, which is issued by the publisher of G.I. Jobs and Military Spouse magazines, for several years. Penske has also been honored by the Department of Defense’s Employer of the Guard and Reserve with the Seven Seals, Above and Beyond and Patriot awards.</p><p>Penske also partners with the <a href="http://blog.gopenske.com/lease/penske-recognized-for-support-of-paralyzed-veterans/">Paralyzed Veterans of America’s Mission: ABLE campaign</a>, Support Military Spouses, World T.E.A.M. Sports and Toys for Tots.</p><h3>2015 FMCSA Truck Driver Training Program Grant Recipients</h3><p>FMCSA awarded its 2015 Commercial Motor Vehicle – Operator Safety Training grants to a variety of educational institutions that provide truck driver training, and the funds will provide training for hundreds of new students, the agency said. Recipients include:</p><p>[column-group]</p><p>[column]</p><p><strong>California</strong></p><p>West Hills Community College District,</p><p>Coalinga, $199,460</p><p><strong>Georgia</strong></p><p>Central Georgia Technical College,</p><p>Macon, $146,771</p><p><strong>Maryland</strong></p><p>Cecil College,</p><p>North East, $101,825</p><p><strong>New York</strong></p><p>Erie 2 Chautauqua Cattaraugus BOCES,</p><p>Angola, $105,201</p><p><strong>North Carolina</strong></p><p>North Carolina Department of Transportation,</p><p>Raleigh, $200,000</p><p><strong>Ohio</strong></p><p>Cuyahoga Community College</p><p>District, Cleveland, $195,040</p><p><strong>Oklahoma</strong></p><p>Central Technical Center,</p><p>Drumright, $200,000</p> <p>[/column][column]<strong>Pennsylvania</strong></p><p>Lancaster County Career & Technology Center,</p><p>Willow Street, $194,811</p><p><strong>Pennsylvania</strong></p><p>Northampton County Area Community College,</p><p>Bethlehem, $134,400</p><p><strong>Pennsylvania</strong></p><p>The Sage Corporation,</p><p>Camp Hill, $198,504</p><p><strong>South Carolina</strong></p><p>Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College,</p><p>Orangeburg, $197,399</p><p><strong>Texas</strong></p><p>Alamo Colleges/St. Philip’s College,</p><p>San Antonio, $196,680</p><p><strong>Virginia</strong></p><p>Tidewater Community</p><p>College, Norfolk, $199,879</p><p>[/column][/column-group]</p></div>
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Veteran Well-Prepared for Maintenance Career at Penske
November 11, 2015
Martin Adams, a maintenance supervisor at Penske in Colorado Springs, Colorado, during his 20-year career in the U.S. Army
<p>Martin Adams, a maintenance supervisor at <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/">Penske</a> in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a prime example of how a veteran can use his or her skills in the workforce.</p><p>Adams began his career with the Army in 1995 and was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was initially a recovery specialist and tasked with recovering broken-down vehicles or repairing them in the field.</p><p>Over his 20-year career in the Army, Adams had a number of positions – everything from hauling food in Iraq to servicing vehicles in Europe. At each stop, he learned new skills that would serve him well in his career with Penske.</p><p>Today, Adams manages a variety of tasks for the technicians on his team, as well as keeps customers up-to-date on their vehicles. He said his military experiences repairing vehicles in harsh conditions have prepared him for just about any challenge that could arise with a Penske truck.</p><p>“The things I have learned in my time with the Army have made me well-prepared,” Adams said.</p><p>Because of the unique set of skills they acquire during their service, veterans like Adams are an important part of the Penske workforce.</p><p>“Martin epitomizes service before self,” said Rob Peragine, a branch service manager in Colorado Springs. “Performing under pressure and attention to detail are characteristics honed in the military that serve him well every day with Pense.”</p><p>In his free time, Adams enjoys riding motorcycles and keeping busy with his three children. But when it’s time to work, he is grateful for how the military prepared him for his new career. He thinks Penske is a great option for veterans looking for a new challenge.</p><p>“I definitely recommend Penske to any veteran looking for work,” said Adams. “It’s sort of like the military – you have a small team you work with every day and become like a second family.”</p><p>Are you a veteran looking to move your career forward? <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/veterans/">Apply today</a>!</p><p><em>Editor's note: In recognition of Veterans Day Nov. 11, Penske will highlight veterans throughout the month.</em></p><p><em>By Tony Kozuch</em></p></div>
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Selectors Call Penske Logistics Shelbyville the Right Choice
October 05, 2015
Penske Logistics Warehouse Order Selectors (from left): Todd Hall, Melvin Robertson and Aumoir Garnett.
<p>The dream of a better life drove Aumoir Garnett to want more.</p><p>As a manager with a fast food restaurant, Garnett grew tired of living paycheck to paycheck and wanted more than just a job. He wanted a career with a company that offered good pay and benefits and could help him give his family a better life.</p><p>Garnett said he found that new way of life among the growing number of warehouse order selectors working at the <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com">Penske Logistics</a> Shelbyville location, a cold storage warehouse providing logistics services to a leading grocery store chain. </p><p>“It is a good job, and it can change your life,” said Garnett, who has worked as a selector for the past six years. “It changed my family’s life. I’m not living paycheck to paycheck. I’m investing in my future.”</p><p>Located just 15 minutes from Indianapolis, Shelbyville offers the serenity of rural living along with the convenience of a big city. Some of the features include live horse racing, a host of restaurants, strong parks and recreation department and a golf course.</p><p><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="f807f6be04e9c27c63a61bf3d42be9c6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="a92f2" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzcyNy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMzc1NTM1N30.RQRPgEFrtCba5bnorV3qGa07buS6xSmkC5_Xyi6MPbk/img.jpg?width=980"/>Penske Logistics, a leading provider of <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/solutions/warehousing-and-distribution/">distribution center management and warehousing solutions</a>, has operated and managed the 600,000-square-foot <a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com/industries/food-and-beverage/">refrigerated food distribution facility</a> since 2013.</p><p>The job of a warehouse order selector – just known as selectors in the warehouse – is to assemble and select cases from pick slots for store orders in an accurate manner and assemble orders onto pallets using voice-activated computers and pallet jacks.</p><p>The physical demands of the job include the ability to work in a cold storage warehouse environment with minus 20 degree to 55 degree temperatures for long periods of time. Order selectors must have the ability to lift 60 to 95 pounds and work in spaces with 55 inches of headroom.</p><p>The work is challenging but rewarding at the same time.</p><p>“There are multiple benefits. The location provides competitive wages. We pride ourselves on good communication, a team environment and timely feedback to our associates,” said Steve Chambers, general manager, Penske Logistics Shelbyville. “Our team is serious about safety and the safety of our employees. We over communicate safety topics on a daily basis and emphasize the importance of safe behavior.”</p><p>Advancement opportunities are available for those seeking to grow with the company.</p><p>“Whether it is moving up within the warehouse classification and learning different jobs or moving into management, this site has demonstrated the ability to grow people for future opportunities,” Chambers said.</p><p>Melvin Robertson, a selector and a trainer, said he likes the opportunities to advance.</p><p>“You have so many different doors open to you if you come in here and do a good job,” said Robertson, who has worked at the warehouse for more than five years.</p><p>While moving into a career with advancement was the central motivator for Garnett, it is moving of a different kind that was an unexpected benefit of working at the warehouse.</p><p>“It’s kind of like a workout,” said Garnett of his duties. “It kind of keeps you in shape. It’s an easy job but it is physical. It’s fun for me. I like the workout. I am constantly moving.”</p><p>Like Garnett, Robertson appreciates being on the go, so much so that he said he dropped 35 pounds in his first two months on the job. “I get paid good money and get a workout while I do it,” he said.</p><p>Penske Logistics is looking for <a href="https://gopenske.taleo.net/careersection/.penske.ex.jsa.hs/jobdetail.ftl?job=1507539&src=JB-10720">warehouse order selectors</a> to become part of an excellent team servicing the nation’s largest grocery store chain. It is a great opportunity for individuals who are safety conscious and have a pleasant, outgoing attitude and who want to excel in a warehouse environment. Penske Logistics offers excellent and competitive pay, <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html">benefits</a>, paid time off, 401K, training, tuition reimbursement and unlimited career opportunities.</p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Women Chart Growing Driver Demographic
September 18, 2015
Linda Carroll, Penske Logistics truck driver.
<p>Linda Carroll was working three jobs to help support herself and her young son when she decided to become a truck driver.</p><p>Now 25 years later, Carroll – a driver for<a href="https://www.penskelogistics.com"> Penske Logistics</a> – is among a growing number of women who are changing the long-held male-dominated truck driver landscape. Once struggling for acceptance from their male counterparts, observers and drivers alike say the tide is turning.</p><p>As the transportation industry struggles to find ways to attract drivers, companies like Penske are turning to experienced women drivers to fill driver seats.</p><p>“Women drivers are every bit as capable as their male counterparts in delivering goods and services safely and efficiently to our customers,” said Steve Pitt, director of driver recruiting and retention, Penske Logistics.</p><p>“They are an untapped resource that provides tremendous opportunity, and we must continually identify ways to attract and retain women drivers in the transportation industry if we are going to be successful in growing the business,” he said.</p><p>Women drivers accounted for 5.8 percent of the 3.4 million drivers in 2014, according to the American Trucking Associations, citing U.S. Census data. The first known female commercial driver was Lilly Drennan, who received her commercial driver’s license in 1929.</p><p>It was a struggle for the first generation women drivers whose battle to learn a very physical occupation was only matched by the negative attitudes of men who railed against women in a man’s world.</p><p>“It was a hard job for men and women, but women were viewed as incapable of the task,” said Ellen Voie, president and CEO, Women in Trucking Inc. “Just about every female driver out there has been told that they should be home ‘barefoot and pregnant’ by some unenlightened male driver.”</p><p>Twenty years ago there were no separate showers for women, Voie said. The vehicles were more physically demanding to drive before the addition of power steering, air-ride seats and automatic transmissions.</p><p>Like many women driver pioneers, Carroll was determined to prove to her male counterparts that she was more than qualified to work as a driver.</p><p>“In those days, women were very competitive and challenged to keep up with the ‘Big Boys.’ You were expected to have a respectable identity to receive respect. Sometimes, I would be the last in line, given bad directions, and have the dirtiest job in the worst weather conditions,” Carroll said.</p><p>“I worked days, hours extra, when the other drivers would not work,” she continued. “I stayed persistent to my goals, and sometimes it paid off. Other drivers learned that I was not going to be the last in line anymore.”</p><p>As more women have entered the field, the battles waged by veteran women drivers have paved a smoother path for the current generation of women drivers.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image"><img class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dafd231cca2bb5ac054f0bdb81cb1d01" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" id="5692e" type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTEyNzY5OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MTc1MTgwMX0.KjAAiffhhjT2Vby_dGzM0zcKKm74mYuJcAkn91YNRy8/img.jpg?width=980"/><small class="image-media media-caption">Jesse Burnette, Penske Logistics truck driver.</small></p><p>Growing up in Michigan, Jesse Burnette longed to see the country.</p><p>“I never had the opportunity to leave the state much,” said Burnette. “I wanted more than just a ‘job.’ I wanted a career that not only could I make great money, but something I would love to do.”</p><p>Burnette, who has been driving for six years and will soon celebrate two years with Penske, said she has experienced some resistance, but it is more for the fact that she is still considered a relative new driver than her gender.</p><p>“Unfortunately, there are some men out there that feel women should not be in this field,” Burnette said. “I have noticed, though, that there is a shift in men’s attitudes toward women in trucking. More respect would probably be the correct word for it.”</p><p>Transportation companies are also recognizing the value of women truck drivers.</p><p>“The tide has changed in the past few years,” Voie said. “Carriers are now realizing the value of hiring women, and the tide has turned dramatically in the last two years or so to focus specifically reaching out to women as potential drivers.”</p><p>Interested in a truck driver career with Penske? <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/drivers/">Visit GoPenske.com/drivers</a>. You’ll enjoy great pay, excellent <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html">benefits </a>and lots of home time.</p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Penske Expands Driver Recruiting and Retention Efforts
September 17, 2015
Long removed from just posting newspaper ads seeking drivers, transportation companies like Penske are leveraging social media platforms, approaching non-traditional applicant sources and even putting boots on the ground in an effort to attract drivers.
<p>“We are exploring all avenues to recruit and retain drivers. The competition for drivers is absolutely fierce in the marketplace. A driver can quit an organization today and be hired by tonight,” said Steve Pitt, director of driver recruitment and retention, Penske Logistics.</p><p>According to the <a href="http://www.trucking.org">American Trucking Associations</a> (ATA), more than 3.4 million drivers accumulate more than 169 billion miles each year. In 2013, trucking professionals delivered 68.8 percent of the U.S. freight tonnage, equivalent to 9.96 billion tons of freight.</p><p>“Everything we use on a daily basis has been for the most part delivered by a driver. If you get to the point where you do not have drivers available to do the jobs we need them to do, then the shortages in goods and services to the marketplace could have long-term economic impacts,” Pitt said.</p><p>Penske is reaching out to potential driver candidates through social media, including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Ads are appearing on job boards, such as Indeed and Monster, as well as on radio.</p><p>“We are absolutely using all forms and methods to get the word out,” Pitt said.</p><p>Penske has hired driver recruiting specialists, many of them drivers, to go out and meet as many potential applicants as they can to let them know about driving opportunities at Penske.</p><p>“They know the language. They know how to communicate with them. They know where they eat, sleep, and drive. They are on the ground level out there with the drivers on the road. They are recruiting and explaining to them the opportunities available at Penske,” Pitt said.</p><p>The recruiters are also meeting with community and government organizations that extend assistance to job seekers to let them know about opportunities with Penske.</p><p>Penske’s recruiting efforts have extended to reaching out to women and veterans – markets that Pitt said would help increase the pool of qualified truck driver applicants.</p><p>In addition to recruiting new applicants, efforts are underway to retain existing drivers by offering avenues to grow with the company and to transition existing associates – such as warehouse workers – into driving positions.</p><p>Most of all, Pitt wants drivers to know that Penske is a place where they can feel valued and that their efforts are appreciated.</p><p>“Drivers ‘Move the things that move the world forward.’ It’s part of the Penske brand, and drivers are at the heart of it.” Pitt said. “Everything we use on a daily basis is the result of a driver driving many times in the middle of the night and sometimes in harsh conditions making sure our customers goods are being delivered safely and efficiently. Anytime you go into a store to buy consumer goods, it is a professional driver that is making that happen.”</p><p>Interested in a truck driver career with Penske? <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/drivers/">Apply today</a>. Penske offers great pay and excellent <a href="https://www.gopenske.com/careers/employment_benefits.html">benefits</a>.</p><p><em>By Bernie Mixon</em></p></div>
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Driving to Ensure Exceptional Customer Service
September 16, 2015
William “Billy Goat” Thomas, a Penske hiker driver, has logged approximately 2.5 million accident-free miles.
<p>Every day nearly 2,000 “hiker” drivers at <a href="https://www.pensketruckleasing.com/lease-or-rent.html?CID=34865496-VQ16-c">Penske Truck Leasing</a> work hard to ensure that the rental and leased vehicles customers need will be ready where and when they need them. </p><p>When a location needs to fulfill five truck rental reservations but only has three trucks on its lot, hikers work swiftly to get those other vehicles prepped and ready for the customers. When a customer leases a new truck, hikers deliver the vehicle to their location as a courtesy.</p><p>“A vital part of Penske’s business is ensuring that our customers are taken care of from the time they inquire about a truck until the time they return their truck,” said Marissa Faust, a rental manager with Penske. “Having a rental truck clean and ready at their location is often the first and most important step for our customers, and that is why the role of our hikers are so important within the company.”</p><p>Jeff Werner, director of Penske’s central reservations centers, feels that the value of hikers can’t be overstated.</p><p>“Our hikers are a key resource for Penske and allow us to give the legendary customer service we are known for,” said Werner. “No matter what time of day, no matter what the weather conditions, they do what needs to be done to satisfy our customers.”</p><p>Hikers also help maintain Penske’s high level of safety standards. Their commitment to safety helps ensure vehicles are delivered to locations safely and on time.</p><p>“Having hikers who are dedicated to safety and service allows us to excel in our customer service,” said Faust.</p><p>A truck driver for over 20 years, William “Billy Goat” Thomas says safety is his number one concern when a hiker is on the road. He has driven approximately 2.5 million accident-free miles, many of which were on snowy, winding Minnesota roads. In fact, he received his unique nickname for his reputation for safety, as billy goats are known for their sure-footedness.</p><p>“As hikers, our job is to get the vehicle from point A to point B in one piece,” said Thomas. “We are proud of the name on the side of our truck and want to represent it and our customers by being accident-free and on time.”</p><p>After being on the road for decades, Thomas still enjoys driving trucks.</p><p>“Making our customers happy is what it’s all about,” said Thomas.</p><p>Penske is celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation week from Sept. 13 to Sept. 19. Each day this week, Penske is featuring dedicated drivers like Thomas. If you are a driver who values safety and delivering excellent customer service, <a href="http://www.penske.com/drivers">Penske is hiring across the United States.</a></p><p><em>By Tony Kozuch</em></p></div>
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