Zach - Driver Trainee
We’d like to introduce you to the team that drives us. As part of our #TeamSpotlight, we will be releasing interviews with various team members across all divisions at Q-Line.
Zach is a participant in our Driver Mentorship Program.
If you would like to learn more about the program, contact our team at drive@qlinetrucking.com or 1-306-651-4826.
How long have you been a professional driver? What made you decide to pursue a career as a professional driver?
I’ve had my 1A license for 4 months since January of 2021. I had wanted to obtain my 1A but cost was a factor. Having Q-Line and government programs assist in covering the costs was helpful.
Can you describe what your training process looked like since you started with Q-Line?
I started with Q-Line in November of 2020 working in the yard initially (helping with drills, loading/unloading trailers, ride-a-longs, load securement, customer interactions, etc.). Once I got my license, I gained more experience working as a pilot driver for a while. Afterwards, I was put into a truck and learned how to use my hours effectively, which fueling/food places to stop, growing more in load securement and general knowledge in trucking. During this time, I worked with a few Q-Line driver mentors who taught me different things and each gave great advice and information. When I was looking for a company that would take me on, there weren’t many that were willing to bring on new drivers. A lot of companies are looking for drivers, but not many are willing to invest in training and growing new drivers.
What does it take to be a good driver in your opinion?
Common sense
A willingness to learn
Enjoy driving
Appreciation for alone time (extremely extroverted people may struggle in this kind of job).
Quick to learn equipment
Mechanically inclined – good understanding of equipment
As a driver – what do you enjoy the most about the profession?
Seeing new places and scenery has been a highlight of my time.
As a driver – what are some of the challenges of the profession?
As a driver, you’re alone often, which can be challenging depending on the person. It’s good to have key people who you can talk to while you’re on the road. Meal selection can also be challenging sometimes.
Tips for new drivers?
Don’t hesitate to ask questions and ask for help
Double check your route before heading out
Make sure you have some good podcasts to listen to
What is the best place you’ve traveled to and why?
Driving to the Yukon was a definite highlight – different than any other mountain routes, lots of wildlife, great views.
What’s the weirdest/interesting job you’ve ever had?
Assistant paintball director at a camp – got paid to shoot others and teach others how to shoot.
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
Not sure – maybe a mechanic or construction, something hands-on.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
Have 8 siblings
Can ride a unicycle
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Blacksmithing
Speak Low-German
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you spend it?
Working on old cars
What’s your favourite hobby/activity? Hunting and fishing
What genre of music is your favourite? Christian Rap/Hip-hop
What’s your snack of choice while on the road?
Dill pickle Spitz & All Dressed chips
How would you describe Q-Line?
People are helpful. There is always somebody able to help and answer questions.
Strong learning environment – lots of learning and people willing to teach.
Why do you Drive Q-Line?
Flexibility – if I need time off, Q-Line is quite flexible in providing time away.
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Thanks to Zach for taking the time to chat. Stay tuned for more interviews from the team that drives us!