Driver Bill Brunke Discusses Career Path
William, or Bill, Brunke recalls being the volunteer chauffeur for all of his friends growing up because he loved driving on the open roads of Orlando, FL. However, that passion for driving took a back seat until a change in professions ignited it up again. Bill quickly acted upon that passion and decided he wanted to become a professional truck driver.
Bill obtained his CDL at Roadmaster in Orlando, FL, and was quick to choose Stevens as his future career. “The instructors at Roadmaster told me about the family atmosphere that Stevens had, and that was the number one thing that really drew me to this company. In the 11 years of driving for Stevens, there has not been a day that I have not felt like part of a family.”
Bill enjoyed the additional training that he received at Stevens and made the decision to convert to the Alliance Contractor Division after receiving motivation from his trainer. “I had heard about the opportunity in orientation, and my trainer was involved with it. I asked him questions about his experience, and he passed along his knowledge. Once I absorbed all of the information, it seemed like a no-brainer to take advantage of this experience, and I am so glad I did.”
Six months after Bill became a solo company driver, he officially converted to a Contractor driver and signed his first lease for his first truck. During this time, Bill also became a trainer because he wanted to help strengthen the next generation of truck drivers. After completing his lease, Bill decided to purchase his truck from Stevens, allowing him to enjoy another opportunity within the company as an Owner/Operator driver. Today, you can find Bill driving through all 48 states in one of his purchased trucks from Stevens.
Bill credits many individuals at Stevens for his success. “Firstly, I would not be here without the guidance of my trainer, Marco Perez. He taught me everything that I still use to this day, and I can still call him with any questions that I have. Second, I have to thank my first trainee, Ralph Jennings. Without him, I would not be the trainer I would be today. My other success comes from Bonnie Dorsey, my Alliance Business Counselor, and Joe Jenkins, my Driver Manager. They are behind me every step of the way and I’m so thankful for them.”
When asked what advice he had for our new drivers, Bill said, “In order to have success in this industry, you must learn patience. You also must always pay attention to all of your surroundings, because you never know what may pop up in front of you.”
When Bill is not driving his trucks, you can find him relaxing at home or tending to his plants in his garden.
Thank you for all of your hard work Bill and we wish you continued success in the future!