At MK, we’re proud to welcome a new wave of Student Drivers. As you begin your career behind the wheel, there’s no better way to prepare than by learning from those who’ve already traveled the road ahead.
We asked some of our experienced MK Driver Trainers to share the advice they always pass along to their students. From safety tips to mindset shifts, here’s what they had to say:
Wes Thomas – Practical, Real-World Wisdom
I’ve got a few go-to phrases I like to share with new drivers:
“When in doubt, don’t pull out.”
If a move feels risky, don’t do it. Better to wait than to cause an accident.
“Keep the G’s to an ease.”
Take turns and stops slowly and smoothly to avoid shifting your load.
Midday fatigue hits us all. A tip?
“Chewing gum has actually been shown to improve alertness more than coffee, loud music, or rolling your window down.”
Charity Battley – Integrity Behind the Wheel
“It’s too easy to do the right thing the first time — and every time!”
Charity encourages new drivers to stay focused on professionalism and not to be swayed by the shortcuts they might see others take:
“You’ll see drivers out there doing the wrong thing — don’t be tempted.”
Her advice is clear: doing the right thing consistently is not just about safety, it’s about who you are as a professional.
Ken Newby – Stay Aware, Stay Safe
Ken has a wealth of hard-earned advice, and it all centers around one thing: vigilance.
- Secure the Trailer: Always check your kingpin — especially after a break. Some drivers have had it pulled as a prank.
- Check the Seal: For food-grade freight, confirm the seal number before you roll.
- Inspect Often: Pre-trips protect you from being blamed for damage. Even quick stops deserve a walk-around.
- Don’t Be Rushed: If you’re backing up, take your time. Watch out for untrustworthy “helpers” who may try to mislead you.
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Ryan Ernst – Read Every Sign
“Pay attention to every sign — especially the ones just for trucks.”
Ryan reminds new drivers that truck-specific signage is everywhere. From low clearances to weight limits, train your eyes to catch what your car-driving days may have missed.
Brian Doughty – One Day at a Time
“If you make a mistake, it’s not the end of the world. Learn from that mistake.”
Brian offers an encouraging reminder to all new drivers: Perfection isn’t required, but a willingness to learn is. If you mess up today, take the lesson with you and move forward. Every day is a fresh opportunity to be better than yesterday.
Travis Bartels – Never Rush the Important Stuff
“It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to back into a spot. Ensure that it’s done safely and get out and look as many times as you need to accomplish the back safely.”
Backing isn’t a race — it’s about accuracy and safety. Travis reminds students that taking your time shows professionalism, not weakness.
Greg Allsop – Habits That Make a Difference
A seasoned driver and Smith System Trainer, Greg shares habits that set professionals apart:
- GOAL: Always Get Out And Look when backing. Check both sides for the safest angle.
- Verify the Coupling: Don’t just rely on the tug test. Use a flashlight to inspect the fifth wheel, locking jaw, trailer plate, and handle.
- Smart Trip Planning: Use downtime to map out multiple stop options. Aim for one ideal stop and backup locations every hour to reduce stress.
- Coordinate Breaks: Pair your 30-minute break with fueling, loading, or unloading to maximize your time.
- Trip Inspections: Use your 10-hour break to fix issues and avoid delays the next day.
Jeremiah Brubaker – Safety First, Always
Jeremiah’s advice is simple, yet essential:
- “Use G.O.A.L. every time you back.”
- “On downgrades, you can always gain speed — but can you stop safely?”
- “Take as many pull-ups as needed.”
- “Know your limits.”
- “Always keep food and water in the truck in case of breakdowns.”
- “And most of all — be safe and have fun.”
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To Our New Drivers:
Starting a new role as a Student Driver at MK is an exciting step, and it comes with a responsibility to yourself, your team, and everyone you share the road with. Their advice isn’t just about turning a wheel — it’s about becoming a professional.
To all our new drivers: We’re glad you’re here. You have a strong team behind you, and we can’t wait to see the great things you’ll accomplish.