Content Sponsored By Paper Transport Inc.
As Veterans Day approaches, a Wisconsin-based trucking company is going above and beyond to show their respect for current and former members of the U.S. Military.
Over years of consistent support, De Pere-headquarted Paper Transport Inc. (PTI) has quietly become a career destination for military members transitioning into trucking careers. Approximately 19% of the PTI driver corps is made up of veterans, many of whom say that they love the chance to work alongside other former military members within the trucking industry. From September 1, 2018, through September 30, 2020, PTI hired 201 veterans — making military members 17% of the company’s total new hires during that two year time period.
“I have always been proud of the fact that our industry has such a high concentration of veterans in our workforce. Our nation’s veterans have shown that they have the ultimate work ethic. I think that translates well with being a professional truck driver. We are very thankful for the selfless military service that our veterans have provided for our country and freedom and we are proud to have so many veterans part of the trucking community. There are not many occupations that are more American than being a service member in the military or a professional truck driver. A sincere thank you to all who served,” said PTI Vice President Ben Schill.
Company’s Custom Wrapped Truck To Roll Out For Veterans Day
PTI is also partnering with Great Northern Corporation to deploy a unique custom wrapped truck as a moving visual representation of their respect for both their veteran drivers and all of those who have served in the military. The wrapped truck will attract a lot of attention on highways and at truck stops and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members, especially on Veterans Day.
In the photos below, you can see the impressive detail and patriotic spirit that went into crafting this one-of-a-kind truck.
PTI Drivers Talk About Transition From Service to Trucking
Some of PTI’s veteran drivers spoke about their journey from military service to their current driving jobs.
“I enlisted at 17 in the Navy. After boot camp I became a Hospital Corpsman. I served mainly with Fleet Marine Force abs Seabee units. I completed 9 deployments from 2002-2014 when I returned to teach at Naval Hospital Corps School until 2016. My final duty station was Naval Expeditonary Logistics Force Jax Detachment until 2018 when I completed 20 years of Active Service. I transitioned to the Selected Reserve and still currently serve as a Reservist. I currently serve as NR Fleet Hospital 5, HQ/Ops Company’s Senior Enlisted Advisor. 2018. I started with Covenant as a solo dedicated Dollar Tree driver and when they lost the account I moved to GP. While at GP rincon I kept talking to PTI drivers and they were always headed home And bragging about the 5/2 schedule. I called recruiting in April of 2019 and have been with PTI since. I had the world’s best training in Norm Ashbrook and have loved working for another Navy Vet Chris Hackler. I came to AB when the account started and I’m in the process of transitioning back to OTR soon to become a trainer hopefully on south board. I would enjoy training other veterans and new drivers. Veterans no matter what branch or period tend to bond easier with other vets,” PTI driver Benjamin Taylor explained.
“I spent four years in the Marine Corps. 1976 to 1980. Went places I would never have dreamed of. That some of the best people I’ve ever met in my life. Would do it all over again. Here at PTI I work with a great team. Makes life so much easier and very enjoyable,” said veteran driver Kelly Middleton.
Company Offers Substantial Pay Bump To Thank Drivers Who Keep the Country Moving
PTI is also showing respect for their truck drivers (veteran and non-veteran) with a substantial pay increase. Effective November 8, all experienced non-home daily, mileage-based PTI Regional drivers will receive on average a 7% pay increase and a minimum weekly pay guarantee.
“We are excited to announce this significant pay increase for our Regional and OTR drivers,” stated Jeff Shefchik, President of Paper Transport, Inc. “Earlier this year, America learned that our essential truck drivers keep this country moving, delivering every day essential needs. With this driver pay increase, we are rewarding/thanking our current drivers and looking to grow our driver force. As our economy continues to recover and grow we need to grow our driver base to support our growing customers.”
Paper Transport Inc. was founded in 1990 and has grown to a fleet of more than 850 professional drivers. If you’re ready to join a team that supports our nation’s military members as an over-the-road, intermodal, dedicated regional or non-dedicated regional driver, please click here to get started.
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