While searching for a new career path that would supply the freedom he was looking for, Miller Jean came across the transportation industry. After much research, Miller knew it was the right road for him to travel.

Attending Truck Driving School

Miller attended truck driving school for a Class A CDL at Roadmaster Drivers School in Orlando, FL. Miller enjoyed the training he received and believed he was well prepared for the next steps in his truck driving career. Miller graduated from Roadmaster on February 27, 2016, and searched for a transportation company that would become his new home.

“I read everything about every transportation company, and quickly decided to join the Stevens team,” Miller said. “The number one thing that impressed me about Stevens was having safety as their number one priority. Once I heard that I submitted my application, and the rest is history!”

Starting His Trucking Career

On March 14, 2016, Miller attended orientation at Stevens Transport headquarters in Dallas, and was on the road with his trainer three days later. “My trainers were amazing,” Miller said. “I really enjoyed getting experience behind the wheel before I went out by myself. My trainers also passed along very valuable knowledge to me during that time, and I still apply all of their teachings today!”

After graduating from OTR training, Miller continued his trucking career as a company driver and even made the decision to become a trainer. “I was in a trainer position before I became a truck driver, and really enjoyed teaching new and interested students all about the industry I was in,” Miller said. “When I found out that I was able to do that in my new profession, I quickly jumped on the opportunity because I want to pass along the knowledge that I have to the next generation of truck drivers.”

Becoming A Trucking Business Owner

In January of 2017, with the help of the Contractor Division, Miller opened his independent business and signed to lease a 2015 Freightliner. “I always wanted to own my own business,” Miller said. “I’m happy that I’m able to achieve this goal with the help of Stevens Transport, and have plans to hopefully buy my own truck in 5-6 months!”

Today, Miller can be found delivering loads with his students in the contiguous 48 states. His favorite place to travel to is California because of the beautiful scenery. “California has the best scenery in the entire country,” Miller said. “The mountains and the trees are a sight to see, and the openness of the state is breathtaking.”

Miller is an excellent driver who is always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it’s to his students or other drivers. I can’t wait to see him progress in his business, and I know he will achieve great things.

– Johnny Cox, Driver Manager

Miller’s Driver Manager, Johnny Cox, spoke highly of his hard-working driver. “Miller is a great asset to both my fleet and the company,” Johnny said. “He is an excellent driver who is always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it’s to his students or other drivers. I can’t wait to see him progress in his business, and I know he will achieve great things.”

When Miller is not driving on the road, he can be found spending time with his two children in Orlando. “My children are very understanding of my profession,” Miller said. “They know the sacrifices I make for them, and the reward is worth it in the end.”

Congratulations on all of your success Miller and we can’t wait to see what you will accomplish in the future!

Ready to write your own success story? Complete the information below to learn how Stevens Transport can train you for a new trucking career and even help you start your own small business.

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For many, the decision to join the transportation industry as a professional truck driver is not an easy one to make. For Lawrence Bush, that decision was one of the easiest he has ever had to make. “I really enjoyed driving, ever since an early age,” Bush said. “I learned how to drive when I was about 11 or 12, and when I learned that I could make driving my career, I didn’t think twice about it.”

Lawrence obtained his CDL by attending truck driving school at United Truck Masters in St. Petersburg, FL. Once he completed his training, there was no doubt in his mind that he would not join Stevens. “I saw one of their trucks pass by my school at least once a day, and I always dreamed of getting behind the wheel of one of their nice trucks once I graduated.”

Dream Become Reality

Lawrence made that dream a reality in September of 1992 when he joined the Stevens family. Ever since then, Lawrence has never pictured himself anywhere else. “The family atmosphere at Stevens is what I enjoy the most,” Lawrence said. “Since my first day during orientation, I have always received support from everyone at Stevens. I plan on driving for them until I am not able to drive anymore!”

Favorite Memory from the Journey

26 years later, Lawrence has traveled throughout the country, delivering loads to 48 states, and has amassed over two million miles with Stevens. When we asked Lawrence what his favorite memory from the road is, he said, “I remember the first time I saw the nighttime lighted skyline in California. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen, and I always make it a priority to see it whenever I travel through there.”

Life Outside of the Truck

When Lawrence is not driving, you can find him relaxing at home or spending time with his family in his hometown of Fort Worth, TX. “My family means the world to me, and I cherish every moment that I am able to spend with them. I’m thankful for Stevens for allowing me to spend time with my family when I ask for it.”

Thank you for all of your hard work Lawrence and we wish you continued success in the future!

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John Ellis grew up surrounded by trucks; members of his extended family were professional truck drivers. So when it came time to choose a career path, John knew that there was no clearer choice than becoming a truck driver.

John first received his CDL in 1999 and drove his first truck until 2004. Due to unforeseen circumstances, John had to release his CDL and leave his truck driving position. In October of 2017, John had the opportunity to receive his CDL again and didn’t let that opportunity slip away.

John attended Roadmaster Drivers School in Columbus, OH for CDL training and had the time of his life. “The instructors were amazing and my classmates were the best,” John said. “With my past trucking experience, I was able to add pass along some of the knowledge to both the instructors and my classmates. Everyone was very appreciative of it, and I was happy I was able to help in any way I could.”

I chose Stevens Transport because I really enjoyed their training model.

– John Ellis, Stevens Transport Truck Driver

After graduating from Roadmaster, John had no doubt in his mind about where was going to continue his second chance at his truck driving career. “I chose Stevens Transport because I really enjoyed their training model,” John said. “I have been through other training programs at other companies, and none of them were as thorough as Stevens Transport. Stevens Transport really set me up for success, and I could not see myself anywhere else!”

John stated that this time around, his truck driving experience has been exceptional. “Personally, the Qualcomm system is the greatest feature in the truck,” John said. “When I was driving my first time, I had to use maps and atlases to plan my routes and had to use payphones to call my Driver Manager. Now, I’m able to do all of that from the Qualcomm, which is great!”

Once John completed his training, John signed his first lease for a 2019 Freightliner truck and has been with the Contractor Division ever since. “I decided to start my own business because I loved the idea of being my own boss,” John said. “I always put 110 percent into what I do, and I saw that becoming an Independent Contractor was the right path for me to choose in my trucking career.”

John’s hard work every day has not gone unnoticed. “John is a very valuable asset not only to my fleet but to the company as well” Garrett Baeder, Driver Manager, said. “He always goes above and beyond with everything that he is tasked, whether it’s with his loads or his students. I can’t wait to see his continued success!”

Today, John has traveled across the country, delivering loads in 48 different states, and loves every minute of it. “This profession is not for everyone,” John said. “If you are thinking about it, just try it out; you may enjoy it, and then it won’t feel like work.”

When John is not in his truck, you can find him enjoying outdoor activities, such as hunting, fishing, and camping, or participating in a family reunion.

Find Your Trucking Career Success With Stevens Transport

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When Cameron Valentinsantos returned home from his time in the United States Navy, he explored professions that he believed would give him the freedom that he had wanted. None had quite filled the bill. That was until he came to Stevens Transport.

Terrific Training, Good People & Great Communication

Cameron had been interested in truck driving before coming to Stevens. His determination to the profession led him to learn how to drive a truck from others after hours of his regular job. He saw an advertisement for Stevens in the local newspaper and called to find out more information about the Stevens CDL training program. “Kendra [Kay], my Driver Recruiter, was very helpful and answered all of the questions I had. She also called me once a week to make sure I was prepared and to answer any last-minute questions I may have had, which was amazing.”

GI Bill Covered Truck Driving School Cost

Kendra also informed Cameron that his truck driving school tuition was going to be covered through his post-GI Bill Education Fund, one of the many Veterans programs that Stevens offers to military members and veterans. Upon learning that, Cameron immediately decided that Stevens Transport would be his new forever home and got scheduled for the next available class in August of 2017.

“My Trainers Were Outstanding.”

Cameron enjoyed the training that he received from Stevens and absorbed all of the information that each of his trainers taught him. “The training was difficult, but it was overall a very enriching and rewarding process. All of my trainers were outstanding, and I still use everything that they taught me to this day!”

Today, you can find Cameron delivering loads across the 48 contiguous states. As for his future plans, Cameron has no intentions of leaving Stevens Transport. “It’s tough being away from my wife and two children sometimes. But I know the sacrifices I am making today are only making my family, along with my bonds with Stevens, are going to be stronger in the long run.”

This job has been the most rewarding I have ever had. And it will be rewarding to you as well.

Cameron Valentinsantos, Navy Vet
Stevens Transport Driver

When asked if there is any advice that he wanted to pass on to new drivers, Cameron said, “This profession is not a normal 8-5 job. It’s a lifestyle change. Make sure that you research everything and ask as many questions as you can. This job has been the most rewarding I have ever had. And it will be rewarding to you as well.”

When Cameron is not behind the wheel, you’ll find him spending time with his family at different outings, pursuing outdoor activities, and engaging in renovation projects.

Thank you for all of your hard work Cameron and we wish you continued success in the future!

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Tony Taylor has always been fond of the truck driving industry. He first started driving when he was 19 years old, when he drove for a produce company before joining the National Guard. After spending 25 years in the Air National Guard, Tony decided to give truck driving a try again and start applying to trucking companies providing CDL training. Deterred by the negative reviews he was reading about those other trucking companies, Tony almost gave up on his pursuit of a truck driving career. But those thoughts changed once he found Stevens Transport and the company-sponsored training CDL training program.

CDL Training at Stevens Driving Academy

Tony re-obtained his CDL from Stevens Driving Academy and after completing his training, was very excited to receive his first load assignment. After completing eight months of solo driving, Tony decided that he wanted to use his 30 years of experience of training to help other drivers that were in the same position that he was. He was then approved as a trainer and has since helped many students become the best drivers that they can be.

Seeing One of His First Trainees Succeeding

Tony even recalled his most memorable moment with one of his former students. “About 3 or 4 months ago, I saw one of my first trainees on his first truck by himself. I was so excited to see him, and he told me that everything I taught him finally clicked and made sense. It was a surreal experience and it made me appreciate what I do every day even more.”

We appreciate all of the hard work Tony has put into this industry, and his hard work definitely does not go unnoticed!

– Brad Turner, Driver Manager Operations Leader

Tony’s Driver Manager Operations Leader Brad Turner only spoke of high praise for the outstanding driver: “Tony is one of the hardest working drivers we have out on the road today. He is a prime example of what we strive for our drivers to be. We appreciate all of the hard work Tony has put into this industry, and his hard work definitely does not go unnoticed!”

How Tony Spends His Time Off The Road

When Tony is not on the road, he can be found cruising the streets on his motorcycle either solo or with an organization that engages in functions that benefits police and firefighters. Tony is also involved with Bikers Against Bullies, a national not-for-profit organization created by bikers to raise awareness and empower the community to fight the terrible effects of bullying on young people through education, community outreach, and fundraising.

Thank you for all of your hard work Tony and we wish you continued success in the future!

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Demarcus Morris and Maurice Reynolds were strangers who started truck driving within weeks of each other but are now best friends who own and operate Great Freight, the independent business that the pair created with the support and assistance of the Stevens Contractor Division.

Maurice and Demarcus both grew up with fathers who were also truck drivers, so the profession was already in their blood. “My father would take me with him on his trips when he was a driver, and it opened my eyes to a career that I could pursue in adult life,’ Demarcus said. “Riding with him was something that I always looked forward to!”

Demarcus and Maurice met at Luna Lodge, the lodging motel that Stevens Transport students reside at during CDL training. Demarcus had just completed his 240-hour over-the-road training, and Marcus was just about to begin his. They instantly became friends and stayed in contact while Maurice was completing his training.

Before joining Stevens, I owned another business with my brother, and I understood the significance of being independent. So when I found out that Stevens offered the same opportunity, I knew I had to take advantage of it.

– Maurice

Decision to Become Small Business Owners

Two months after Maurice finished his training, the duo made the decision to team up and create their company. “Before joining Stevens, I owned another business with my brother, I understood the significance of being independent,” Maurice said. “So when I found out that Stevens offered the same opportunity, I knew I had to take advantage of it.”

Stevens offered us the opportunity to see New York City for the first time, and that experience was sensational.

– Demarcus

Team Enjoys Seeing The Country

Since teaming up, the team has been able to explore many places around the country, some even for the first time. “Stevens has offered us the opportunity to see New York City for the first time, and that experience was sensational,” Demarcus said. “I even got to see Miami for the first time while driving, which was surreal.”

The pair have been grateful for all of the advice that has been passed down to them during their time so far and even wanted to share some advice for new drivers. “Perseverance is key,” Demarcus said. “This job will require you to make sacrifices, but you will grow a deeper appreciation not only for those sacrifices but for the job as well.”

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Stepping onto the training yard at Stevens Transport’s CDL training school, Kiana McDaniel was a little intimidated by the size of the tractor-trailer in front of her. Standing at just 5 feet tall, Kiana wasn’t sure she was cut out for this. But as she quickly learned, the training staff was dedicated to her success. They’d seen fears like hers before and knew how to nurture her training experience and build her confidence. “They pretty much held my hand through it,” said Kiana.

She’s been driving for over one year now and is really enjoying her new career. She attributes her success to the positive start she got at Stevens Transport. From personalized instruction during training to mentors and even follow-up calls to check in on her.

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Randy Wales became a truck driver in 1979, drove for a few years, and then paused to raise a family. Once the kids were grown, he set out to rediscover his favorite pastime: Truck Driving. In 2010, Randy attended the Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX, obtained his new CDL, and re-qualified his driving skills.

That same year, Elizabeth Cooper was recovering from the recession and was looking to become a truck driver. She held the same fabrication job for nearly three decades but was ready to start a new life doing something different. After searching the internet for the best truck driving companies, Elizabeth found her future and started at Stevens Transport in October of 2011.

Randy and Elizabeth happened to meet at Stevens Transport during Randy’s safety check-in and Elizabeth’s graduation to solo driver, and they became inseparable immediately.

I never thought I’d meet my dream girl, a tall skinny red-head truck driver!”

– Randy Wales

During Elizabeth’s 3-month adventure into graduation driving, she called Randy for everything. He was her coach and they fell in love. They kept in touch and eventually met up “on the yard” at Stevens to discuss becoming a driving team. Team drivers for the Contractor Division were fairly new at that time, so Randy and Elizabeth jumped all over the opportunity to set a precedent. With Stevens Transport by their side, they took the road by the horns and made a very successful living driving together.

After completing their most recent lease and seven years of driving as a team, Randy and Elizabeth are embarking on their newest adventure yet. Randy has hung up the keys and is now teaching the new generations of future drivers as a Resident Instructor for Stevens Transport.

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Cecil Lang Jr. began his driving career in 1998 when he attended the Stevens Driving Academy in Houston, TX, and retired after 20 years of service to Stevens Transport. He reflected on two decades of driving for Stevens and emphasized how the people in the company have made it feel like home – “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Stevens Transport. The people and the friends you make here, who become family, make it very special. If you ever need anything, all you have to do is pick up the phone. If you want to talk, everyone is happy to listen. It’s a great place with wonderful people and I will miss everyone.”

The people and the friends you make here, who become family, make it very special.

– Cecil Lang Jr.

Cecil explains that the drivers at Stevens have become lifelong brothers to him, and describes their bond as a brotherhood. He says that he constantly gets calls from fellow Stevens drivers checking in on him and seeing how he is doing.

Thank you for your 20 years of service to Stevens Transport, and we wish you all the best in your next chapter.

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Durell Jamison received his ten-year ring from Stevens Transport, acknowledging a decade of service to the company. His journey began at US Truck Driver Training School in Sterling Heights, Michigan, and was hired by Stevens upon graduation. Durell attributes his success to Stevens Transport setting him up to be successful. He explains that the support system, refresher classes and strong emphasis on safety that Stevens has in place has made him able to do his job in an effective and professional way.

There were a few companies that came to talk to my class about joining their companies, but the Stevens truck was by far the most impressive. From the look of the truck itself to all the technology inside, I was sold and have been very happy with my decision.

– Durell Jamison

Trucking Offered Chance To See The Country

Durell was looking for a career change and a chance to see the country when he decided he wanted to be a truck driver. He met with Stevens recruiters while attending CDL school and was instantly drawn to the Stevens trucks. He explains “There were a few companies that came to talk to my class about joining their companies, but the Stevens truck was by far the most impressive. From the look of the truck itself to all the technology inside, I was sold and have been very happy with my decision”. When he arrived at Stevens, Durell was excited at the opportunity to travel in a beautiful Stevens truck, equipped with the best technology in the industry. His excitement remains ten years after starting with the company.

Company Treats Drivers Like Family

The aspect of Stevens that Durell appreciates the most is that the company treats their drivers like family. Whenever he needs assistance or guidance, he knows that all he has to do is pick up the phone, and the Stevens driver managers will help him with whatever he needs. He says that this is what makes driving for Stevens Transport so enjoyable. Durell looks forward to the next ten years driving for Stevens and all the new sights he will see in his Stevens truck.

Congratulations on ten years of truck driving success, Durell!

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