Cover Story

Mark Brennecke Covenant Transport, Inc.

More than three million professional drivers crisscross the U.S. each day, yet only 13 of them are given the honor of representing the industry as members of America’s Road Team. Mark Brennecke, a company driver proudly running with Chattanooga-based Covenant Transport, is one of 35 finalists for the 2007-2008 Road Team.

Sponsored by Volvo Trucks North America, America’s Road Team was created by the American Trucking Associations to reach out to the trucking industry and motoring public. Members of the Road Team have demonstrated driving skills, spotless safety records and a heartfelt desire to spread the word about the safe operation of all vehicles on our nation’s highways.

The final cut for the 2007-2008 Road team will be made in January, and Mark is thrilled to be one of the finalists up for consideration. “I enjoy being part of an industry that plays such an important role in the nation’s economy,” he says, “and America’s Road Team does a fantastic job of speaking with the news media, civic organizations and governmental officials about how safe and efficient the trucking industry is. I look forward to the final round of competition.”

For Mark, life as a professional, over-the-road driver has given him an opportunity to indulge his passion for travel— and be paid well for doing it. As a young man, Mark served in the Marine Corps as an airman on Iroquois “Huey” transport helicopters and Cobra gunships. Later, in the Reserves, he tested his mettle in an airborne unit. Along the way, Mark learned to trust himself and his instincts, and he saw trucking as a career that would allow him to expand his horizons, earn a steady income and meet lots of new people.

After earning his CDL and learning the ropes, Mark was ready to hook up with a carrier that shared his values and moral compass. In 1997, he found what he was looking for at Covenant Transport, and the relationship that followed has benefited both parties.

Impressed with Mark’s technical skills and dedication, Covenant made Mark a driver trainer, and he served in that capacity for nine fulfilling years. From day one, the veteran driver has been comforted that management at the company pursues a larger purpose than making money. “They express an integrity and commitment to faith that I share,” says Mark. “It comes down to believing in hope.”

Mark has always found it an easy task to sell the advantages of running with Covenant. “From the genuine family atmosphere to the generous compensation package and great equipment, they have it all,” he says. “I can’t tell you how many people have been sold by the time I mention the free XM Satellite Radio!”

Mark is a Trucker Buddy and a member of the Highway Watch program. When he’s not out on the road, Mark enjoys fishing, serving as a volunteer fireman and tending to his home and 25 acres in central Tennessee.

The staff of Over the Road and Pro Trucker magazines would like to wish Mark continued success with Covenant Transport, Inc., and the very best of luck in the America’s Road Team finals in January. If you are a solo or team driver interested in running with one of the top motor carriers in the nation, call (888) MORE-PAY, visit www.covenanttransport.com or see their ad on pages the inside front cover of this issue.