Miguel Herrera: Safely Driving 600 Miles a Day

For this month’s FIDELITONE Life feature, we chatted with Miguel Herrera. Miguel is a CDL Driver based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He drives a 53-foot tractor trailer for long distance freight deliveries. He typically drives 600 miles a day! Most FIDELITONE drivers do shorter distance last mile delivery, so this is a unique look into the traditional transportation side of the business.

Read on to learn more about Miguel’s role and his focus on driver safety:

If you could be any celebrity, who would you be?

Elvis!

What does a typical day look like for you?

I start early, usually at 3:00 in the morning. First, I make sure the vehicle is safe to transport freight from state to state. I make sure everything is secure. I drive long trips – about 600 miles a day. I drive from Albuquerque to Flagstaff or El Paso. I deliver medical supplies, packaging supplies, and windows.

It seems like safety is a top priority for you. Can you give new drivers your three most important safety tips?

1. Tires are the main thing to check. Major accidents can happen if you blow a tire.

2. Make sure you get enough rest. Driving while tired is dangerous.

3. Be cautious at all times. Look at your surroundings. Look for distracted drivers. Be alert.

What do you enjoy most about working at FIDELITONE?

The clients and my coworkers are great. Management is great. When I first started, I noticed there were a lot of drivers who have been working at FIDELITONE for a long time. That’s rare because there’s usually a lot of turnover at logistics companies.

I have a good relationship with all the clients. Everyone is nice. I can’t say there’s a person I don’t like.

How did you get your start in logistics?

I started working at FIDELITONE a little over a year ago. I used to drive box trucks and I’ve been delivering for a long time. A friend told me to get my CDL to have more opportunities. I started from the bottom and moved on up.

There’s a big difference going from driving a box truck to a tractor trailer. I drive a 53-foot trailer now that has 10 gears.

Since you’ve been working in logistics for a long time, what about the future of the industry excites you the most?

We’re always going to need truck drivers to haul freight from state to state. So there’s job security. The need is just going to get bigger as consumers buy more online.

What are your interests/hobbies outside of work?

I’m a DJ at weddings, graduation parties, and events. I can mix a country song with a hip-hop song. But I mostly spend time with my kids. Family is very important to me.

Share a unique fact about yourself!

I played the Viola in high school. Most people don’t believe that.

What sets FIDELITONE apart from the competition?

The people that work here – management and employees. I wake up in the morning and feel good about going to work.

How do you work to create customer loyalty?

I communicate with my clients and make sure that I’m there on time. If there’s an accident, I’ll call and let them know. I have a great relationship with the clients.

What would you recommend for someone who wants to start a career in logistics?

Get all of your endorsements so you have more opportunities.

Passionate team members like Miguel are the reason why FIDELITONE is a great place to work. We truly appreciate their hard work and dedication to providing outstanding client experiences.

Are you interested in joining the FIDELITONE team? Learn more about career opportunities.