Earlier this week we took a moment to shine the spotlight on one of our business instructors. Today we would like to take a moment to learn more about one of the trainers at the Ohio Business College Truck Driving Academy.  Located in Middletown, Ohio the truck driving academy has been training new drivers for the past 47 years. At the academy students can prepare to earn their Class A or B CDL license with classes offered weekdays and weekends.

Meet Shon Stevens one of our newer trainers on campus. Following in is fathers footsteps, he has had his CDL for over 18 years. Learn more about how he started his trucking career and why he enjoys working for OBC.

1. How long have you been working at the Ohio Business College Truck Driving Academy (OBCTDA) and what do you love most about your job?

I have been working at OBCTDA since September of 2016. I love being able to help train adults to start a new career, and to see the excitement and happiness in their lives when they pass their CDL test. The chance for them to have a career and sometimes change their future situation because of this career is a great outcome. It is very fulfilling to be a part of that.

2. Where are you from originally?

Cincinnati, Ohio. I have lived here my whole life.

3. How did you get into the trucking field?

My father was a truck driver for BP until he retired. After my time in the Marine Corps, I went into civilian life and worked as an Operations Manager and a Deputy Sheriff. In 1998 I decided to get my CDL license and become a truck driver.

4. Who has influenced you the most in life?

My father, he was in the Marine Corps as well. He taught me respect, professionalism, and a love of my country.

5. What do you consider your favorite hobby?

My jeep – I love jeepin’! I have been on several off-roading jeep adventures, most recently to Ouray, Colorado and Moab, Utah.

6. What might someone be surprised to know about you?

For the past two years, in mid June, I have walked 54 miles on the Little Miami bike trail, from Xenia, Ohio back to Milford, Ohio. It takes me about 17 hours with very few stops. My son drives me to Xenia around 3 am, and I walk until about 9:30 or 10 pm. My wife meets me in Loveland and walks the last 9 miles with me. I get over 110,000 steps on my Fitbit in one day!

7. What is the best part about being an OBCTDA trainer?

The best part so far about being an OBCTDA trainer is the chance to bring excellence and professionalism to this program. We are going to be the best adult education school – the school of choice!

8. What do you think will change in trucking over the next five years?

Look for more tests of automated truck driving – technology whereby the truck can be driven without a driver. Also look for technology to reduce the need of brokers to find loads. Watch for the implementation of electronic logging devices. The industry will continue to grow, and the driver shortage will continue.

9. What would you tell someone who is thinking about attending OBCTDA?

If someone was thinking about attending OBCTDA, I would tell them that we are a great value for their investment in the training. Our instructors care about our students and want them to succeed.  OBCTDA can’t succeed without our students, and we are committed to their future success as a CDL driver.

Learn more about the Ohio Business College Truck Driving Academy, and find out how you can start a new career on the road.