Eric Linn Named Driver of the Quarter

on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 in Awards & Recognition

“Eric is excellence.” That’s how fleet manager Garrett Tigges sums up Eric Linn, TMC’s Driver of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2024. Eric has been a TMC driver since 2013. Since then, he has driven more than 1.28 million safe miles throughout the United States. Read on to learn more about Eric and why he’s one of TMC’s most exceptional drivers.

Building a Career—and Seeing the Country

Eric came to TMC after getting his commercial driver’s license. He had previously served in the Air Force and spent 18 years working in a distribution center, and he was ready to start a new chapter of his career. “I knew a little bit about TMC, but once I got here, I told my wife after I started, ‘I wish I’d started this when I got out of the service,’” he says. “This has been just a phenomenal company. I can’t think of going anywhere else.”

Eric likes being his own boss as a flatbed driver, but he has also enjoyed the chance to see the United States from behind the wheel. “I’ve seen more than I ever thought I would in my life. I didn’t think I’d ever get to California in my lifetime, and I’ve done that. There are only three states I haven’t been to,” Eric says.

While he’s had the opportunity to visit parts of the country he never thought he’d see, Eric has also been making a name for himself as a reliable and safe driver at TMC. Garrett says, “Eric is the definition of TMC and what TMC wants in a driver. He does everything the correct way and takes pride in his securement and safety day in and day out. He is always on time and always is available to help or do the ‘grunt’ work.”

A Company That Supports Drivers

Eric says he enjoys driving for TMC because the company truly supports drivers in every way. “Our equipment is top-notch. It’s just a really good company, and we’ve got people in the right places,” he notes. “This is a good company to work for. I could never see driving for any other company.”

He encourages new drivers to take full advantage of the support and expertise that TMC provides to help them succeed behind the wheel. “This job is not rocket science, it’s common sense,” he says. “TMC teaches you what to do. If you can’t figure it out, call somebody. Ask somebody. If you have a question, somebody in this company knows the answer.”

Eric’s focus on safety has also been an important part of his success, especially since TMC prides itself on delivering loads without accidents or claims. Eric says his secret to safe driving is simple: “Watch what you’re doing. Pay attention to what’s around you, especially when you’re driving,” he advises his fellow drivers. “Even in small towns, on two-lane roads, you gotta pay attention. You don’t know what’s coming up. And it doesn’t take but a second for something to happen.”

Support from Family

At first, Eric says, his time on the road was difficult for his family. His wife, Toni, and their children missed him while he was away. But as his family came to understand what a great career this was for Eric, they became more supportive. Toni even accompanied Eric in his truck for several years, and she enjoyed life on the road.

After many years as a linehaul driver, Eric now drives a dedicated route. He says that this allows him to get home more often to spend time with his family, particularly his young grandchildren—who have also come to see the pride their grandfather takes in his work. “They see my truck and they get excited and say, “There’s Papa’s truck!”” he laughs.

Going the Extra Mile—Every Day

Being named TMC’s Driver of the Quarter is a huge accomplishment, and it puts Eric in the running for Wheel Master, the award TMC gives to one outstanding driver each year. But in spite of this, he remains humble and dedicated to doing the job right. “I do this job because it’s a job and I love doing it, but I’m not out here for accolades,” he says. “If it comes to me, it comes to me. But I’m not looking for it. I’m here to earn a living and do the best I can, using my God-given knowledge and talent.”

Congratulations to Eric Linn for being named Driver of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2024! We’re so proud of everything you have accomplished as part of the Black and Chrome fleet.