Cover Story

Stephen Fraser- Covenant Transport, Inc.

Covenant Transport relies on its trainers to help develop the overall first impression of driver excellence. Not only are they responsible for teaching new drivers the ways of the road, they also double as role models. Stephen Fraser is one of Covenant’s many exceptional trainers who knows his responsibility and represents the company with knowledge and dignity.

Stephen began his career path as a driver at Covenant over three years ago. He chose Covenant as his starting point due to its reputation of stability and keeping drivers satisfied in all aspects, especially the promise of steady miles. He was also intrigued by the claim of excellent driver treatment, which he has come to know as a fact during his time with the company.

During his first few months at Covenant, Stephen was supported by an excellent training program, which provided him with the professional skills he needed to make the most of
his career. Through the years, he has been offered many opportunities at Covenant, the greatest of which was his
promotion to trainer.

“I’ve been a trainer for almost two years now, and I really enjoy the help I’m able to give someone coming into this industry,” says Stephen. “I can honestly say I love what I do.”

Since becoming a trainer, Stephen has successfully graduated every student that has come across his watch, which totals 29 drivers to date. His greatest joy in training is seeing his students handle a crisis situation and learning from it. “Some-times it’s easier for them to learn from situations versus me telling them what to do. I feel I’m a role model to the students I teach,” said Fraser. “Once I train them, they become a mirror image of me and my driving techniques. Seeing them doing well a year or two down the road is very gratifying.”

Covenant Transport believes it is important for trainers to be well compensated, because they have the responsibility of producing the best and safest over-the-road drivers in the business. In addition to an attractive starting rate, Covenant trainers receive mileage regardless of who is driving and up to a $500 bonus for each student who graduates. Trainers also receive 31.5 cents per mile for all miles and are offered a per diem, plus benefits. Insurance is available to trainers on their first day and top trainers can earn up to $80,000 per year.

“Combined, our trainers make up one of the best training programs in the industry,” said Bill Brooks, director of driver recruiting. “They all live up to their responsibilities and possess the driving experience needed to help others succeed.”

Fraser’s plans for the future include staying on with Covenant as a trainer for several more years, then possibly migrating to an in-house position. The desire to stay with the
Covenant family is one of Fraser’s top priorities.

The staff of Over the Road and Pro Trucker magazines would like to wish Stephen continued success with Covenant Transport. For more information on driving opportunities waiting now at Covenant, see their ad on the inside front cover of this issue or visit www.covenanttransport.com.