Roadside Chat with PAM Driver Quintin
Quintin Veal always knew trucking could be a career option. His father was one, and always told him stories from his experiences on the road.
He recently graduated the Driver Solutions company sponsored CDL training program and began an OTR career with PAM Transport.
We were able to catch up with him over the phone in between loads, check out our conversation below:
Getting Started
Q: How long have you been a truck driver?
A: I got my CDL in 2007, but I drove local. This is my first time going OTR, and I'll be headed into my 3rd month with PAM.
Q: What were you doing before that?
A: Before trucking, I was working in a prison.
Q: What made you decide to become a trucker?
A: My dad was a truck driver, and he always told me stories about what he saw out there. I always knew trucking could be an option.
Q: How was your training experience? Anything that really stuck out?
A: I went through C1 - Fort Worth. The trainers made it plain and simple. I really liked the 1st week of class. It was a good refresher even though I already had my CDL.
Q: What’s your favorite part about truck driving?
A: My favorite part about trucking would have to be the open road. Another thing I really like is knowing that I play a major role in how the world operates. We help keep America going. Something about sitting in the truck really makes you feel like you're accomplishing something.
PAM Transport
Q: What kind of driver are you now? OTR? Dedicated? Team? Hazmat?
A: I'm a solo OTR driver.
Q: How’s your experience been with PAM since you upgraded?
A: My experience has been great. PAM really cares about its drivers.
Q: How’s your relationship with your dispatcher? How important is it to maintain a good relationship?
A: I think I have the best one. It's really good. When I'm talking with him, I never feel like I'm rushed. It's really important to maintain a good relationship with my dispatcher, it's just like having a teammate. Sometimes I get to where I don't know what the next step is, and I sort of go into a panic mode, but he does a really good job of keeping me calm.
Q: Favorite part about the company?
A: PAM is patient with you. They'll work with you if you have an emergency.
Q: Coolest place PAM has taken you?
A: Pueblo, Coloroado.
Q: Was it difficult driving through the mountains out West?
A: With the help and training I got from C1, especially with downshifting, when I got to the mountains it wasn't bad. "There's not much to it," is what I like to say.
Q: Advice for those joining PAM to become a truck driver?
A: Don't be in a rush. Allow the trainers to explain things. Listen to everything they tell you. Come in with an open mind and ears, and stay calm.
Next Step
Q: What are your future plans? Do you plan on staying with PAM?
A: I've been thinking about becoming a Driver Mentor. I'd love to give back to PAM by showing others what I've learned.
Are You Ready to Hit the Road?
Driver Solutions can help you get the CDL training you need to become a truck driver, just like Quintin. Start your career now and you could be on the road making up to $50,000 in just the first year! Just take a few moments to complete our online driver application now.