In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Tremayne Hewitt, a seasoned local owner operator from East Texas, who has been in the trucking industry since he was 17. Tremayne shared his extensive experience and insights into the trucking world, making it a highly informative session for both new and veteran listeners.

Key Points Discussed:

Choosing Between Young and Experienced Drivers: Tremayne expressed a preference for hiring younger, less experienced drivers who are eager to learn and motivated by earnings, as opposed to older drivers who might be set in their ways.
Transition from Logging to Flatbed Trucking: Tremayne narrated his transition from logging to flatbed trucking, a change spurred by personal reasons and a desire for a new challenge.
Importance of Compliance and Safety: Tremayne emphasized the critical nature of maintaining compliance with regulations, especially in light of his experiences with accidents and the scrutiny that follows.
Legacy and Personal Touch in Trucking: He shared touching stories about his grandfather, who was a significant influence in his life and career. Tremayne continues to honor his grandfather through custom truck designs and a strong work ethic.
Advice for New Truckers: For those looking to enter the industry, Tremayne advised securing an MC number first and emphasized the importance of understanding insurance costs and other financial commitments before starting.
Operational Challenges: Discussing the daily challenges in trucking, such as load securing and dealing with hours of service restrictions, Tremaine provided practical insights into managing these issues effectively.
Community and Relationships: Tremayne highlighted the importance of building good relationships with brokers and clients to secure consistent freight work, moving beyond dependency on load boards.

Personal Insights:

Tremayne also shared his personal routines and preferences, such as starting his driving day with gospel music, which keeps him centered and focused. His approach to trucking is deeply personal and rooted in family values, which resonates with many in our community.

This episode not only gave us a glimpse into the life of a local truck owner-operator but also served as a valuable learning session on navigating the complexities of the trucking industry with grace and resilience. Tremayne's story is a testament to the impact of legacy, the importance of adaptability, and the power of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of industry challenges.