Key Takeaways from the Trucking for Millennials Podcast Episode with Tom Bray

In the latest episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, hosts Michael and Aaron dive deep into the intricacies of fleet management and safety with Tom Bray, a Senior Industry Business Advisor at JJ Keller & Associates. With decades of experience in the trucking industry, Tom shares invaluable insights that can help fleet managers, safety officers, and trucking company owners navigate the complexities of their roles. Here are three key takeaways from this enlightening episode.

1. The Importance of Proactive Problem-Solving

One of the most significant points Tom emphasizes is the necessity of proactive problem-solving in managing stress and ensuring smooth operations. As a part-time firefighter, Tom draws a parallel between firefighting and fleet management, highlighting the importance of "putting out fires" before they escalate.

"The biggest trick for me anyways was solve the problems. I mean, that's, you know, I'm a part-time nights and weekends, I'm a firefighter. So I use this term a lot. Put the fires out because once the fire goes out, that solves a lot of your problems."

Tom's advice is particularly relevant for fleet managers who often find themselves dealing with unexpected issues that can disrupt operations. By addressing problems as soon as they arise, managers can prevent small issues from becoming significant obstacles. This proactive approach not only reduces stress but also enhances the overall efficiency of the fleet.

2. The Critical Role of Driver Training and Retention

Driver training and retention emerged as another crucial topic during the discussion. Tom underscores the importance of providing training that is specific to the unique needs of drivers, operations, vehicles, and the industry. He also highlights the significance of retaining high-quality drivers, especially in a competitive market.

"Every driver can always improve. And, you know, you do the coaching, you do the training, you know, and you help them make that next step to become a better driver."

Tom explains that effective training should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, it should be tailored to address the specific challenges and requirements of the fleet. This targeted training helps drivers improve their skills, which in turn enhances safety and operational efficiency. Additionally, investing in driver training and development can significantly improve driver retention, as drivers feel valued and see a clear path for career advancement.

3. Managing Expenses Through Preventative Maintenance

The third key takeaway revolves around the importance of managing expenses, particularly through preventative maintenance. Tom points out that many smaller fleets struggle with tracking their expenses accurately, which can lead to financial difficulties. He emphasizes the need for a robust preventative maintenance program to avoid costly breakdowns and repairs.

"One of the issues is you've got to know where the money's going. And that's something that a lot of smaller carriers are, they have trouble with, you know, they, they're not to the point where they're tracking literally every penny coming in, every penny going out."

Preventative maintenance is not just about fixing issues before they become major problems; it's also about understanding the lifecycle of various components and replacing them before they fail. This approach can save fleets significant amounts of money in the long run by reducing the frequency and severity of breakdowns. Moreover, a well-maintained fleet is less likely to incur violations during roadside inspections, which can further reduce costs related to fines and increased insurance premiums.

Conclusion

This episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast with Tom Bray offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone involved in fleet management and safety. By focusing on proactive problem-solving, tailored driver training, and effective expense management through preventative maintenance, fleet managers can significantly improve their operations. Tom's decades of experience and practical insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their fleet's performance and safety.

For more detailed insights and to hear the full conversation, be sure to check out the episode on your favorite podcast platform.

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