Interview with Lucas Mendoza, Texas Materials Haul Truck Driver

What do you enjoy about driving trucks?

It was always my dream. I’ve been driving for 25 years now, and I really enjoy it. I love being able to do something I enjoy and make money at the same time. If you do what you love for a living, you never have to work for the rest of your life.

You’re a member of Texas Materials’ Safety Committee here in Waco. Tell us about that.

I was invited to be part of the Safety Committee because the management valued the way I treat my coworkers. If I learn something, I share with them, especially when it comes to safety information, because that’s what helps us to prevent accidents and issues on the road.

Do you have any advice for others looking to get into this field?

The most important thing I have learned is: never take a shortcut. Whatever the task is, if it’s driving, loading or unloading equipment or materials, if you’re not 100% sure you can do it safely, don’t do it. Always ask for help. The company is here to provide help, safety equipment, anything you need to do the job right. It can be tempting to take shortcuts to do work faster or go home early. You can’t do that up here; there is no shortcut that is worth your life. Safety comes first, always.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a proud father of three and grandfather of three!