April 2023 Driver of the Month: Manuel Ross
Manuel Ross launched into the transportation industry right after graduating high school in New Brunswick. His family was already firmly rooted into trucking as he joined his father’s logging company Al Ross and Sons. He worked alongside his two brothers and father after completing the three-month long Truck Drivers Training Program to achieve his Class 1 license in the late 90’s. After several years of driving and operating heavy equipment in the family business, Manuel saw opportunities in western Canada and moved to Alberta with his sights set on the booming oilfield industry.
In 2007 Manuel started working for Fortis Alberta hauling power poles and electrical transformers through a contracted company and gained his Journeyman Boom Truck Operator Ticket in 2008. He continued maintaining his exemplary customer service until 2012 when Encore Trucking and Transportation Ltd. was awarded the transportation contract and Fortis Alberta. Fortis insisted Manuel remain in his position.
Don Lucas, Encore’s owner comments,” Over the last 11 years, he has lived up to his reputation, every day, every load. Manuel is an expert at load securement and conscientiously cares for and inspects his truck, and crane as well as the many loads and trailers he pulls during the seasons. Many times, our loads are a mix of fragile electronics, transformers, regulators, stacks of cable reels; there can be steel, pallets and crates. Tricky stuff and time-consuming work. His engagement and attention to detail has translated into a near perfect delivery record for years. Any odd load we get, Manuel can handle it.”
His team around him is one of his favorite parts of his work and he encourages other drivers, “for you to bring your best attitude on every load.”
Encore’s admin team appreciates his accuracy on paperwork and accommodating nature, and our maintenance manager notes his clean and organized truck and timely reporting of any defects and safety applauds his attentive and engaging nature in safety meetings.
Manuel has hauled material across Alberta, north of Fort McMurray and down to the United States border. He enjoys listening to hockey podcasts as he churns up the kilometers on the road. When COVID protocols came into place, he found the work a bit lonely and began taking Oliver, his young dachshund along on his trips. Now, years later, Oliver is ready to begin his workday along with Manuel and is happily a regular fixture in the passenger seat. Walking Oliver and hitting the peloton exercise bike are good habits Manuel has to keep himself healthy and fit.
Manuel appreciates the work-life balance this career allows him and enjoys quality time with his wife and son – and sneaking in the occasional game of golf here and there.
In Manuel’s 25 years behind the wheel, his professional accomplishments are many including achieving his Class 1 License, the Journeyman Boom Truck Ticket and his continuous 17 years working for the same customer.
AMTA Driver of the Month 2023 Presenting Sponsor, BFL Canada
