Before retiring from the Army in 1997, Randal McKinney searched for a profession that he could thrive in. Now, 24 years later, Randal has achieved a milestone that very few transportation drivers have in their collection – three million safe and accident-free miles! “After a while, the number of miles just faded away. It became more about the journey and inspiring the next generation more than anything else. I’m looking forward to seeing what else lies ahead for me in the industry!”
Randal joined the Stevens team in December of 1996 after graduating with his CDL from MTA Truck Driving School. He enjoyed the training that he received from school, and even more excited to continue his new career at what he calls “the best company in the industry”. Soon after, Randal traveled to Dallas, TX to complete his over-the-road training, the last thing standing in his way before he began his solo career.
This country offers something new at every turn. I have really enjoyed seeing the Northeast, like Maryland, Maine, and Vermont, along with the Northwest, like Washington and Oregon, as they both offer some of the most beautiful scenery that one could ever see. It’s drives like those that have kept me in this profession for as long as I have!
– Randal McKinney
“I had a very good trainer. He was very thorough, and passed along many valuable pieces of advice about the industry and how to be the best driver on the road. The hardest part about my training, as many others can attest to, was backing the truck, but his guidance, plus many trials and errors, I finally accomplished it! I’m very thankful for his wisdom and his training, as it made me the driver I am today!”
One year later, Randal was able to become a trainer, and has since trained over 125 students, passing along the same knowledge that his trainer passed along to him! He also credits his trainer experience as the most rewarding part of his training career. “Getting to see these students begin to thrive in a career that can bring them so much success is what I enjoy the most! I’m always excited the day I get a new student because I’m able to pass along everything I know to them to also help them become a driver as great as myself!”
Not only has Randal been able to inspire new drivers in the industry, but he has also explored many parts of the country that he would not have been able to if it were not for his career. “This country offers something new at every turn. I have really enjoyed seeing the Northeast, like Maryland, Maine, and Vermont, along with the Northwest, like Washington and Oregon, as they both offer some of the most beautiful scenery that one could ever see. It’s drives like those that have kept me in this profession for as long as I have!”
Before he departed for his next journey, Randal passed song some advice that he offers to both his students and new driver in the industry: “You must be watchful and wary of everything. You have got to always keep your eyes open and head moving, because the moment that you let your guard down is the moment you will turn in your keys.”
Congrats on your outstanding achievement Randal, and we look forward to what else you will accomplish in this industry!
Ready to begin your trucking journey? Check out the truck driver training offered by Stevens Transport and other great reasons to drive for us.