Get ready to join us for another “Story from the Road.” This month, we interviewed one of our 2023 Dedicated Drivers of the Month, Kenny Neely. We’ll explore Kenny’s introduction to truck driving and discover why he chooses Maverick each day. (There may also be some fun facts he shared!)

Q: How long have you been driving?

Kenny: “I've been driving for 25 years. I got into it out of necessity. I was working at a plant in Franklin, TN. They closed and I did not have anywhere laterally to go to make the same money. My friend said I could drive a tractor trailer delivering ice cream, so I did.”

Q: How did you get into driving Final Mile? (Final Mile is a dedicated division at Maverick that delivers goods to the end consumer)

Kenny: “I knew a driver that was driving on a final mile delivery contract through another carrier. He really enjoyed it. They ended up having to relocate and he asked if I was interested in taking over that job. Being home every day really interested me, so I decided to do it. That was almost 19 years ago. I’ve been driving on that same account since.”

Q: How has your experience with Maverick been?

Kenny: “It was so good to be appreciated with great pay and the way Maverick treated me when they got this account. I had been through this several times before, but no one ever treated me like Maverick. My truck and equipment were set up so well. Also, when I started, I didn’t lose a thing. I received prorated vacation time, and they honored my tenure! I love this company. The people here are kind and they care. Maverick makes you want to do your best!”

Q: What do you love about being a professional driver?

Kenny: “Truck driving has made me a lot more financially free to do things for my family. I can save money and that's such a good thing. Also, I love being able to pay my bills and I LOVE to eat. It’s great.”

Q: What kind of awards/recognition have you earned during your time with Maverick?

Kenny: “I’ve earned Maverick’s Ace Award for 2 years running. I’ve received safety awards and was excited to get Dedicated Driver of the Month last November!”

Q: Tell us about your family.

Kenny: “I’ve raised two kids and have been married for 31 years, and truck driving has been so good for me and my family. I also have three grandbabies!”

Q: What is your favorite outdoor sport?

Kenny: My favorite outdoor sport is hunting. I love deer hunting and when I am not deer hunting, I am setting up something for deer hunting.

Q: What is your favorite restaurant?

Kenny: “Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ in Decatur, AL- their stuffed potatoes are amazing. They are almost as big as a football!”

Q: What is your favorite music/artist?

Kenny: “Anything old country. George Jones, Conway Twitty, or Hank Williams.”

Q: Last and certainly not least, what is a fun fact about you?

Kenny: “I am a Disney fanatic. I’ve been to Disney World over 25 times. I LOVE the Tower of Terror ride! One time, we were there for 5 days, and we walked 54 miles in that time.

One thing that's clear as we share these stories from the road: being a professional driver is not just about skill, attitude and resilience, it's about the people behind the wheel. That’s what matters most - portraying the personal side of driving that shows the dreams, the challenges and the drive to succeed.