Aug 19, 2020 • Carriers

Trucker Spotlight - Jamar Holland

The Trucker Spotlight series explores the lives of truckers and their journey to make a difference in their industry. We interview different truck drivers to understand some life lessons that make them who they are today. We also learn more about their motivations, and the problems that they encounter on the job. We also tackle how Trucker Path’s solutions helped them with what they do. The information that they provide helps inform other people who are looking to delve into the trucking world.

Today we are putting the spotlight on Jamar, who’s been driving for 4 1/2 years. He’s a husband and a father who loves every minute of his trucking life. Let’s get to know more about his life on the road.

What made you decide to be a trucker?

I decided to become a trucker honestly because everything else in my life had failed up until that point. I was tired of working dead end warehouse jobs and was really ready for a new career.

In the years that you have been driving, what are the significant changes that you’ve noticed in the trucking industry?

The most significant change for my short career has definitely been ELDs. I had a short experience with paper logs but it became a challenge when we shifted to their electronic counterparts.

What made you decide to put up your Youtube channel?

Honestly, I never imagined my Youtube channel growing into what it is today, it actually just started as a way to vent-out and express myself. Somehow it became therapeutic to me and surprisingly to others as well. As it grew, I continued to take pride in being a voice for others like myself and giving motivation that truly anyone can be successful in life.

Any times when you get lonely while driving? How do you deal with it?

Absolutely, but thank God for technology. I recently started referring to myself as “FaceTime Daddy” and even though it’s done jokingly, FaceTime and other similar forms of communication are pivotal for me and my family to remain sane and whole while I’m out here working to secure our future.

As a trucker, what are the current struggles in this COVID19 pandemic?

I think just the uncertainty of what will happen next, hoping that it doesn’t effect my income so drastically like so many of my friends and family.

What are your usual routes? Favorite scenic truck route?

I usually stay on I40 and I5 in California, however my favorite scenery would definitely be Oregon just perfectly created in my opinion.

What was your weirdest or most unusual haul?

I picked up a load of hay in the middle of a Nevada desert that was literally 30 miles off the map.

How often do you use rest stops / truck stops? What are the things that you look for in a truck stop? Favorite truck stop meal?

I use both very often, first thing I look at is always the parking lot size and parking availability. Lucky for me, the Trucker Paths app is normally very accurate. As far as inside, I always look at reviews of the showers. There’s nothing more disturbing than a poorly kept bathroom. Favorite truck stop meal is always a mom and pop diner with great breakfast!

What are the common troubles or problems you encounter while trucking?

Common troubles for me are rude and unsafe drivers. My biggest fear is that even if I can control and safely operate my truck, you never know when someone around you will do something that will not only jeopardize their life but yours as well.

What are your pet peeves while driving/trucking?

Biggest pet peeves are vehicles who enter the highway too slow, its literally called the acceleration lane.

How did Trucker Path help you in your day to day trucking?

The fact that Trucker Path can tell me how far each truck stop is from my exact location, that allows me to be very productive and productivity equals more money.

What are some tips that you would like to share for aspiring truckers?

Be confident when you’re out here on the road and most importantly don’t rush. The money will come and so will all your goals just keep pushing one day at a time. Like I always say on my channel, Stay safe, Stay positive and Stay productive.