Each quarter, the Producer Badge is awarded to drivers who are in the Top 10% of the fleet in which they exceed the quarterly productivity goals. This badge symbolizes the driver’s hard work and success within Marvin Keller.
Congratulations to the following drivers who earned the Producer Badge for 2024 – Quarter 3!!
Owner Operators – Top 10% Total Revenue for the Quarter
Johnathon Neumann
Daniel Nunez & Junrey Montejo Team
Anthony Dent
Kyle Luesmann
Dale Benolerao
Company Drivers, OTR – Top 10% Fleet in Total Miles
Richard Merrill – 42,204
Bruchman Team – 39,244
Branham Team – 38,754
Orville Merrill – 36,814
Allen Fitzgerald – 35,783
Company Drivers, 4 On/4 Off – Top 10% Fleet in Total Miles
Did you know that 25% of Marvin Keller’s total maintenance costs stem from physical damage repairs on our tractor-trailers? This includes collisions from third parties and single-vehicle accidents. This eye-opening statistic emphasizes the critical importance of properly maintaining our tractor-trailers. As responsible operators, it’s imperative that we prioritize the maintenance of our tractor-trailers—not just to protect our investments but to uphold the integrity of our industry.
Safety First
Keeping our equipment in top condition serves multiple purposes, with safety being the foremost. Even minor damage, like a dented fender or a cracked windshield, can adversely affect visibility and aerodynamics, creating hazardous driving conditions. This is why promptly reporting any issues is crucial for timely repairs and safer journeys.
Financial Implications
Neglecting physical damage can lead to significant financial consequences. What starts as a minor repair can escalate into major problems if ignored, resulting in increased costs and potential fines for operating unsafe vehicles. By addressing damage early, we can budget more effectively for repairs and avoid larger expenses down the line.
Spotting Problems Early
Regular inspections play a key role in preventative maintenance. Conducting thorough pre-and post-trip inspections allows us to identify issues before they escalate into costly repairs, ensuring we stay on the road. For example, discovering a flat tire during a routine pre-trip inspection enables immediate repair, saving you from the complications and expenses of a blowout on the highway.
Commitment to Safety
Ultimately, maintaining our tractor-trailers isn’t just about equipment—it’s about the safety and efficiency of our operations. By embracing a culture of safety and responsibility, we can enhance the longevity of our vehicles and protect everyone on the road.
Let’s commit to conducting those essential pre and post-trip inspections and reporting any damage as soon as we see it. Together, we can build a safer, more reliable industry—because our success depends on it.
Embracing positivity is more than just putting on a happy face or being agreeable. It’s a mental and behavioral pattern that always seeks out opportunities and solutions, one that doesn’t dwell on the negative. Those who are most successful in their careers are optimistic about their prospects because they have a can-do attitude. They have opened themselves up to solving any problem that comes their way.
Studies have shown that positivity leads to greater happiness and performance in the workplace. When you employ a positive outlook, others around you are more likely to do the same, creating a positive environment and earning the trust of your coworkers. It increases productivity by opening your mind and allowing you to think logically, improving decision making and problem solving. Negative emotions create distractions that drain your energy and keep you from performing at your best. You are more open to learn from others and gain new skills and take advantage of new opportunities. Customers are also more likely to want to work with those who stay positive, which will lead to long-term working relationships.
Here are some ways to implement a positive mindset:
Instead of complaining about problems when they arise, offer possible solutions. When you think positively, challenges and obstacles become opportunities for improvement. You build resilience and are more adaptable to change, making you stronger and more capable of growth. A positive mindset also helps you manage feedback and conflict by being open to changes and constructive criticism.
Use introspection to analyze your mindset and thought patterns. If you find yourself in a pattern of negative thinking, challenge those negative thoughts and try to reframe them by looking at it from a different point of view.
Focus on the big picture. If you find yourself getting worked up about a problem, ask yourself if it will matter in the long run. If the answer is no, don’t let it bother you.
Make changes to things that are in your control. If you can solve a problem, do it. If it’s beyond your scope, ask a colleague or manager for their input.
Consider others’ opinions and show appreciation for the contributions of others. Always be willing to listen to and respect others’ viewpoints.
Conversely, a negative mindset is focused on problems rather than solutions. Those with negative attitudes frequently complain, become defensive, and have a tendency to blame others. These behaviors are toxic and destructive to teams.
Positivity is a value at Marvin Keller. It’s part of our culture and is integral to our continued success.
If you’re like most people, the idea of an evaluation from a supervisor isn’t the most appealing activity. No one is thrilled to be told what they’re doing wrong, but if you don’t know, how will you ever improve? Those who strive for success and professionalism in their careers are open to criticism. When you do everything you can to be a reliable and high-performing employee, it follows that you believe you’re doing everything the best way possible. But sometimes it’s easy to be blind to our own shortcomings. That’s why it’s necessary for our managers to evaluate our performance and provide constructive criticism.
When receiving criticism, it’s important to be aware of the levels of normal human reaction. On the most basic level is instinct, a gut reaction that takes no effort on our part. Emotion is a step above that, with rational thought and reason residing at the highest level. Always stop your first reaction and stay calm; avoid emotional reactions. Maintain open body posture and try to avoid negative facial expressions. Your first instinct might be to get upset, but if you remember that the whole purpose of constructive criticism is to benefit you and help you improve, it will help you stay calm. None of us are perfect and there is always room for improvement.
Before you react to criticism, always let the reviewing party finish their complete thought without interruption. That will give you time to think and not act impulsively or emotionally; emotions distort the truth and cloud our judgment. Ask for clarifying questions and, if needed, help finding solutions to the issues.
Don’t take constructive criticism personally. Avoid resentment, defensiveness, or retaliation. There are ways to tell if criticism is constructive or destructive.
Who is providing the criticism? Is it a coworker or a supervisor?
Is the criticism emotional or sincere? Just like it’s best to avoid emotional responses to criticism, it’s important that the reviewer also avoids personal attacks or negative emotions
Was the criticism in a private one-on-one setting or in front of a group?
It’s ok to get a second opinion. Others are not necessarily correct. If you sincerely believe you have been unduly criticized, ask someone else. Just make sure you stop and reflect on the issue before reacting.
Learning and self-improvement are lifelong endeavors. Everyone wants employees in an organization to perform at the highest level they can. MK is committed to helping everyone become top performers.
Celebrating the End of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week with a Bang! We’re thrilled to announce another giveaway! Watch the video to find out who won the brand-new truck seat, generously donated by Truck Centers.
Our team would like to acknowledge a few of our drivers who have demonstrated exceptional levels of dedication, positivity, professionalism, and hard work. These drivers have been chosen for their remarkable contributions and commitment to excellence.
“Bobby and Rhonda Miller have been an Owner Operator Team with us for 7 years. They are flexible with planning and will go anywhere we send them. They have excellent communication and are on top of ETA’s, paperwork, and load updates. Bobby has made minor trailer repairs to save on downtime and repair costs which is much appreciated. Rhonda has a positive attitude in all she does. When sending updates, she often includes a picture or a meme with a positive uplifting message to brighten my day.”
– Amy Owner Operator Manager
“Darrell runs a great business as an owner-operator and is really easy to work with. I don’t have to worry about much in his hands. Safety is also his top priority. Also, while I’ve only been at Marvin Keller for a few months now, I feel like I’ve known Darrell for much longer. It’s cool to be able to have deeper-level conversations about the bible every once in a while at work, as we also try to do the best job we can. It’s nice to be blessed with a coworker that’s on the same obscure wavelength as you and interested in learning about similar things. Thanks for all you do Darrell!”
– Kanen, Driver Manager
“Ben Foster has been here for 90 days but he is an excellent fit at Marvin Keller. He has a positive attitude, strong communication skills, and is always on time for pickups/deliveries. I’m excited to have Ben on our team!”
-Andrew, Driver Manager
Merk started with us early this year, and from the day she started she has been amazing. Merk puts in 100% every day and always goes above and beyond. She is always good with communication on any issues and she does a lot for us with trailer inspections, repairs, and washouts. She is a huge asset to the MK team and on top of being a great employee, she is all around a great person! A true honor to work with someone like Merk!
Backing up a tractor-trailer is one of the most challenging tasks professional drivers face. It demands precision, patience, and a keen sense of awareness. Drivers must navigate tight spaces, avoid potential hazards, and adapt to varying conditions, which can quickly become overwhelming when backing a 53-foot trailer into a dock. To refine your backing techniques and make the process smoother, consider these valuable tips from driver trainer Ryan:
Techniques to include in your backing routine:
G.O.A.L – Get out and look.
Hazards – Always turn on your flashers as it warn others around you that you are going to be performing a backing maneuver.
Minimize distractions – Turn off the radio and any other distractions.
Open Your Windows – you need to be able to hear what’s going on around you.
Back from Your Sight Side – Whenever possible back from your sight side. Back in so you can see down the left side of your vehicle.
Tips & Tricks:
Don’t Chase the Trailer – When backing you don’t want to oversteer. If you are constantly steering hard left and right to keep control of the trailer you are oversteering.
Patience – Don’t let yourself get flustered. It takes time to get skilled at backing.
Learn from Others – When you’re sitting in a dock, pay attention to how other drivers set themselves up and back in. Every driver has their own way of doing things. You can learn a lot from watching others.
Use Tire Tracks as a Guide: If you are backing into a space that lots of other trucks have been in and out of, you can use their tire tracks as a guide to show you where your tires should be as you back.
Practice Regularly – Whenever you get a chance to practice, take advantage of the opportunity.
As professional truck drivers, we must develop a thorough backing routine and continually practice in different conditions. Applying this approach and the tips listed above will not only enhance your precision and control but also ensure safety and operational efficiency. It will also help better prepare you for diverse backing scenarios on the road. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and every maneuver counts. Stay vigilant and never hesitate to seek assistance when needed.
Take advantage of our new maintenance campaign to expand your knowledge and earn Pro-Points! The campaign focuses on providing steps for different breakdown situations and tips for prevention.
Those who complete the campaign activities below by December 31, 2024, will receive 200 Pro-Points!
LONG TERM ROAD CLOSURE – Brush College Road (north of Faries) Decatur, IL
Please be aware that Brush College Road north of Faries Parkway will be CLOSED beginning Friday, August 30, and will remain closed for nearly the remainder of the overpass project. Truck traffic will need to access Faries Parkway using Hubbard, 22nd Street, and Garfield.
Brush College Road south of Faries Parkway (using the underpass) will once again be open starting August 30. We will have the jug handle road ready for use about mid-September.
You will not be able to go north on Brush College Road from the Faries Parkway intersection
You can travel Brush College Road south of Faries Parkway between Faries and William Street
Additionally, the new E Harrison Ave road (west of Brush College Rd) will be open to access that area.
Please drive cautiously as work continues on the huge overpass project. Apologies for the inconvenience!
EDIT: Updated to reflect new closure date of 8/30 instead of 8/29
