Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/306042
Ken Thede was working as a mechanic when he decided he'd like to switch to something that would require less time on his feet each day. That's when Thede decided to become a professional driver and has since turned it into a lengthy career. Today, he is a driver for Marten Transport's Kansas City regional fleet. "I did a lot of research on different companies before choosing Marten," says Thede, who started driving for the company 17 years ago. "Marten had the better benefits package and it was clear that they really cared about their drivers. I knew that this was the place for me." Since the Kansas City regional fleet is fairly large, Thede says there's always something different and interesting about the job, but he's able to get that variety without sacrificing his home time. Thede and his wife live in Lincoln, Mo., and like going to casinos, staying at bed and breakfasts and visiting historical sites during Thede's time off. Driving for a regional fleet gets him home weekly, allowing the couple to also spend a lot of time at their lake house during the summer. "I like being on a regional fleet because you get better home time but you still get your miles," Thede explains. "I actually make more money than I did as an OTR driver. Driving regional is really a better option for me." Marten is well-known in the trucking industry for being family-oriented and driver-focused. Thede's experience with Marten has been much more than he ever expected. Not only does he enjoy his weekly home time and steady miles, but he also likes the company's numerous driver benefits and commitment to safety. The company also offers its drivers state-of-the-art equipment, paid vacation time and several attainable bonuses. "The other companies I worked for always treated me like a number and didn't seem to care about me," Thede admits. "Marten treats me like a person. I've never found another company that equals what Marten can do for me." DRIVER KEN THEDE G E T S M O R E W I T H M A R T E N T R A N S P O R T R E G I O N A L F L E E T Headquartered in Mondovi, Wis., Marten Transport specializes in transporting food and other consumer packaged goods that require a time and temperature-sensitive or insulated environment. For more information on the variety of OTR, regional and dedicated driving opportunities available at Marten Transport, call 888-410-5914 or visit www.drive4marten.com. PRO_Full&Spread_Template.indd 1 4/10/14 4:46 PM