Truck Driver Appreciation Week – Meet Nick, Oil Tanker Driver

It’s Truck Driver Appreciation Week! In our business, nothing happens without our drivers. To show our gratitude, we’re shining a light on a few incredible drivers. Keep reading to learn more about Nick, an oil tanker driver.

Tell us a bit about the work you do.

I’ve been driving trucks for 16 years, and I’ve been here driving an oil tanker for Gulf Coast for 2 years. As an oil tanker driver, I’m responsible for loading, transporting and unloading hot asphalt oil to different asphalt plants in Southeast Texas.

How did you get started driving?

I got interested in driving when I was working in warehousing. I talked to drivers daily that delivered to us and I thought it sounded like a good career choice. Driving is something that is not industry specific and there will always be a need for it whether it be transporting aggregates, food, any kind of materials, vehicles, pretty much anything we use in our daily lives – these things have to be transported from the manufacturer to the consumer. I liked the fact that the position would offer me and my family long term stability and would also be something that I’d enjoy doing as a career.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the freedom of the open road and the different changes of scenery every day. I also enjoy the sense of accomplishment that you feel after you safely return from a long trip on the road.

What do you like about working for Gulf Coast?

The people, work culture and dedication to putting safety first. I also have a lot of support from my managers and our shop employees. They are very good at taking care of any repairs and making sure that we are safe and comfortable on the road.

Any advice for those looking to get into a driving career?

If you are thinking of becoming a driver, don’t wait; go for it. There is a huge demand for professional drivers right now if you have the drive and passion for it. If you enjoy driving, like to listen to the radio and like to work independently, look into getting your CDL. You won’t regret it!

Take Nick’s word for it: If you’re looking for job opportunities, you can find careers at CRH Texas Materials Group here.