Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/82527
While at home, McCoy uses his downtime to maintain his collection of six old Allis-Chalmers tractors. His favorite is his uncle's WD, bought new in 1953. McCoy has a soft spot for the brand, as he grew up around the equipment. MIKE McCOY couple accessories, including lights. McCoy, who says he happened to fall 1944: Born in Columbus, Ohio 1964: Began first job hauling eggs for Ashton Quality Eggs 1965: Married wife, Sharon, known as "Chick" 1966: Son Mike born 1970: Son Jeff born 1972: Son Keith born 1989: Began driving for Valley Transportation 2000: Bought first truck, a 2000 Volvo into working for a good company, finds it pays to stay loyal to a carrier. "The big- gest thing I would tell any driver is to find a good company and stay there," McCoy says. "Every time you shift around, you lose money by the time you sign on, transfer stuff and lose loads." As for maintenance, McCoy takes his rig to Aber's Garage for the majority of work, and Valley Transportation does the rest. McCoy does the washing, cleaning and waxing. "I would do more, but I really don't have a place for it, and it's just easier to have an expert do it right," McCoy says. McCoy and his wife keep up with his expenses, but he pays to have his income tax prepared. He had a net income of $65,000 in 2011. "I hear way too many guys that say they like to pick their loads," says McCoy, who tries not to be too finicky about loads. "Hard work pays off. It sure has for me." Mike McCoy is a finalist for the 2012 Owner-Operator of the Year award, which is sponsored by Overdrive and the Truckload Carriers Association. The winner will be announced at TCA's annual convention, March 3-6, 2013, in Las Vegas. ® Text INFO to 50298 or visit ovdinfo.com October 2012 | Overdrive | 47