Inspiration Truck: Inspiration, Innovation & Efficiency - Elite Support
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>> Summer/Fall 2015 vol. 5, issue 3
Inspiration
Truck:
Inspiration,
Innovation &
Efficiency
[ PAGE 30 ]
Rob McNees Elite Support
Award Awards [ PAGE 24 ]
[ PAGE 25 ]
GREETINGS
Spec it Right On August 1, 2015, we will
be celebrating our 45th
anniversary as a family-
owned, customer service
focused company. I am
so thankful, BLESSED and
incredibly proud of our 500
employees, many of whom
are now 2nd generation and
some even 3rd generation.
to reach even higher goals. With the recent announcement of the
GHG Phase ll regulations, it is reassuring to know DTNA is clearly
the leader in the industry, not only meeting the new requirements;
but exceeding them and achieving them ahead of schedule for our
mutual customers.
Over the past 45 years, it has been an honor and privilege to serve
our locally-based customers as well as our national transient
customers who operate in our service lanes. We are excited about
what our future together looks like and rest assured that at Truck
Specing the right
Centers, we will continue to strive to exceed your expectations each
As always, I have been presenting and every time.
John Hopkins
TCI service awards to our
alternator upfront pays
many long time (5 through 44
year) employees this year at each of our locations. Each time, it
reinforces how blessed our company has been with some really
big down the road. great employees who are passionate about what they do and truly
care about providing the best quality service and products to our
loyal customers and often on a 24/7 basis. Our service and passion
for repairing our customers' trucks more timely and cost effectively
Highest output at low RPM: Manages heavy
than any of our competitors remains our number one focus in our
electrical loads at low engine RPMs, reducing battery parts, service, mobile repair and body shop departments.
charge time
We continue to be a national leader in training our own technicians
Remote Sense: Drastically reduces battery charge time as well as those of our customers and other DTNA dealers in a
world of ever increasing complexity of diagnostics and repairs
Brushless durability: 13 fewer moving parts, because of technological advances in today’s equipment. To stay
ahead of the tide, we have already started the 18 month process
eliminating components that wear out, while extending of certifying 3 new trainers, all who are valued TCI employees, to
product life support and then replace Lenny Thole and Steve Brachear who are
nearing retirement age after several decades of being the best of
Efficiency and power density: Highest combination the best in their field.
in its class, providing substantial fuel savings It is hard to believe that one year has already passed since we
acquired Freightliner of Evansville. The Evansville group has been
Warranty: 3 years/350,000 miles
a wonderful addition to our team. We have had the great fortune
Available in 240, 275, 300 & 320 Amp of growing internally and through the acquisition of other long
term family-run Freightliner dealerships during our 45 years and
we look forward to other strategic opportunities as they may
present themselves. We are excited about our future expansion
opportunities within our Area of Responsibility including in-process
Go to SpecItRight.com
activities in Effingham and Foristell (we reacquired the SelecTrucks
property that we initially built in the late 1990s) to add more support
to customers in various areas of our market.
Today we have a significant product advantage with our new
OE Spec Codes l Try Our Products l Technician Training Freightliner and Western Star trucks with our lowest total cost of
ownership in the industry, including the all-important MPG with the
integrated Detroit powertrain and, best of all, DTNA continues to
invest several hundreds of million dollars each year to keep striving
Delco Remy is a registered trademark of General Motors Corporation, licensed to Remy International, Inc.
w w w. t r u c k c e n t e r s i n c . c o m >> driveN Summer 2015 1
DID YOU KNOW
>> Summer/Fall 2015 vol. 5, issue 3
TCI TOC
News & Features
TRUCK CENTERS, INC. HAS... 9 FULL-SERVICE DEALERSHIPS IN THE ST. LOUIS METRO, ILLINOIS AND SOUTHERN INDIANA
NEW Patent-
Pending CRT ™ INDUSTRY-BEST
OVER $12M IN
06 37
vents increase News from TCI Profitability in Trucking
air-flow to further STOCKED PARTS HOURS OF
Patented wear reduce operating Notes from Our General Best Business Practices INVENTORY TO OPERATION
indicator saves temperatures INCLUDING
time and helps you Managers MINIMIZE YOUR
24/7 IN TROY
38
DOWNTIME
get maximum life
from your drum
Driver Recruiting
10 Special Services
Serving You Better Than Ever
Is a Marketing Effort
16 Industry News & Notes 43 Fleet Efficiency
10 Trends to Watch
DTNA, FET & More Morton, IL
20 TCI F.I.R.S.T. 46 TCI Team Notables
What Makes the TCI Team Proud
Hudson, IL IL
Morton,
Morton,
Morton,
Morton, IL
ILIL
The Sophomore Class
52 Service Awards
21 Gov. Rauner Visits TCI
Starts Southern Tour in Troy
TCI Team Recognitions Springfield,
Springfield, IL ILILIL
Springfield,
Springfield,
Springfield,
Springfield, IL
Decatur, IL
58 The Latest Inside TCI Decatur,
Decatur,ILIL
24 TCI Team Accolades St.
t. Peters, Peters,
MO MO MO
What's Happening St.St.
St.
St.
Peters,
Peters,
Peters,
Peters, MO
MO
MO
Troy,ILIL
Troy,
Troy, IL
Troy,
Going Above and Beyond Troy,IL
IL
Runs 15% cooler 66 TCI Vendor of the Year
30 Freightliner Inspiration Stemco Recognized by TCI A NATIONALLY-
RENOWNED
for better braking Truck EVANSVILLE, IN
TRAINING CENTER
performance
First Licensed Fully
Automated Truck 68 What You Need to Know
Understanding a Complete
St.
St.
St.Louis,
St. Louis,MO
Louis,
St. Louis, MO MO
St.Louis,
Louis, MO
MO
MO Mt. Vernon, IL
Mt. Vernon, IL 3 STATE-OF-THE-ART
COLLISION CENTERS
Brake Job
and 34 History of Innovation Mt. Vernon, IL
25% longer life!
Freightliner Paves the Way in
Trucking 76 Ask the Technician
The ParkSmart Auxiliary
HVAC System
>>
2 HR EXPRESS
ASSESMENT
The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. You may SERVICE WITH
not reproduce any articles online or in print without first obtaining written permission from
Truck Centers, Inc. Please contact Michelle Petroff at mpetroff@truckcentersinc.com for
ELITE SUPPORT
® more information on the rights holder for the specific piece that you are interested in. CERTIFICATION
Managing Editor: Michelle Petroff | Designer: Fee McCaskilL
www.webbwheel.com
Contact your local Webb Wheel Products supplier
for training that can cut your operating costs!
Check out the NEW TruckCentersInc.com Site!
©2015 Webb Wheel Products Inc.
WWW.TRUCKCENTERSINC.COM
2 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 3
JUST THE
As the word continues to spread, our customers are calling us more
with questions on what products are best suited for their applications.
A group from TCI took customers to attend a ride and drive event in
Kansas City. Over 1 ½ days, we learned a lot about the equipment and
customers had the opportunity to ride in trucks with a trained Daimler
FACTs
driving instructor to learn how the seamless integration translates to
premier fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
The new Detroit Assurance Safety System is one of the new Daimler
products that has received a lot of buzz. The system offers various safety
offerings under one umbrella. Bumper-mounted radar and optional
camera equipment on the windshield of the Freightliner Cascadia and
Cascadia Evolution communicates with the truck’s brakes, engine,
Let me first thank each and every one of our customers and transmission in real time to detect and track up to 40 objects at
for allowing Truck Centers, Inc., to play a role in a distance up to 660 feet, while the Video Radar Decision Unit (VRDU)
supporting your transportation needs – whether for Sales, refreshes its speed, distance, and time calculations 200 times a second.
Parts, Service or Body Shop needs, we appreciate the Active Brake Assist (ABA) is always on to detect objects and signal
opportunities that you allow us to assist you. We consider the driver of any warnings and decelerates automatically to lessen
it an honor that you continually choose to work with us the severity of collisions that may be otherwise unavoidable. Adaptive
and look forward to doing everything we can to keep you Cruise Control (ACC) automatically adjusts your truck’s cruising speed
up and running! I would also like to thank our dedicated to maintain safe following distances from other vehicles to extend
teams for all their efforts in providing our customers the cruise control sooner. And the Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is an
best possible experiences. independent system that is only available in addition to the radar system.
LDW uses a camera to track the truck’s position and provide warnings if
It is my pleasure to share a few of the most recent points the truck departs the lane. The forward-facing camera is built to detect
that I hope will rate us as the take home value for you… reflective paint and road reflectors. When activated, LDW mutes the
radio and sends an audible warning to the driver.
The 2014 year ended on a very positive note for Truck Centers. We
While we have a lot going in our heavy-duty segment, we have also
were able to deliver many customer new trucks for the end of the year.
been gaining market share in the medium-duty market and currently
With that said, we were almost immediately hit with a shortage of trucks
holds 37% market share. Our M2 has made itself known as a reliable
for 2015. The heavy-duty order board for Detroit engines and Detroit
performer. Customer option requests for municipal, box truck, utility, and
DT12 Transmissions was completely filled for
other vocational applications have been added and will continue to meet
the year by the end of February. Fortunately,
the demands of those who use these trucks in the field.
we were able to put a large group of trucks on
order for our current customers and even a few I would also like to remind you of our Elite Support program that we
for new customers. We also made every effort are part of through DTNA. This program certifies that the dealer (in
to be proactive in ordering large groups of stock our case the full-service TCI dealerships) meets various components
trucks, which have been suited to meet the needs for a superior customer service experience from the 2 Hour Express
of smaller fleets and owner operators. It has Assessment and quicker actual repair time to customer communication
been somewhat of a juggling act to get trucks and facility amenities. We were one of the first dealer networks to join
in a timely manner when our customers needed this program and have proudly continued to expand with it including
them.. However, we have been able to meet the multiple peer Elite Support and Customer Improvement Coordinator
majority of those needs and are in the process of awards. This network not only allows us to enhance the customer’s
planning for next year to secure orders as soon experience in our own stores, but also allows us to help you receive
as Detroit makes products available. We hope the the best possible experience when stranded in other areas and at the
additional component production will also allow us to be more flexible location of one of our dealer friends. Please do not ever hesitate to
in our ordering system and meet the market demand with a more involve us if you experience issues at another dealership because we
streamlined approach. will do our best to help your claim or repair.
At this writing, we are halfway through 2015 and our parts, service and Garry Jarrell has been with TCI over 43 years and has been diagnosed
body shop departments have also maintained a high work volume and with cancer. Garry has filled many roles for us in service with the most
we don’t anticipate any slowdown in the near future. Our truck sales recent in our New & Used Truck Prep department. His expertise and
team has also been in a whirlwind as our facilities are overrun with new willingness to take care of the customer is sorely missed right now. We
truck preparations and deliveries. All good things! The first part of the are sending healing thoughts and strength to Garry and his family.
year is busy because of traveling required for manufacturer meetings, In closing, I would like to send our thoughts and prayers to a long-time
major truck shows, and training obligations for the equipment we offer. TCI-Troy employee.
As many of you already know, we have been very fortunate to provide an With all of this said, I hope that this article finds your company and
integrated drive train through Daimler that has continued to outperform family are doing well in 2015. Please contact me at any time if you
our competitors. Freightliner has grown its market share in excess of have any questions about our product line or any suggestions for us.
36% in heavy-duty products and that is forecasted to continue to climb.
The Detroit engine paired with the Detroit DT12 transmission has met
the market’s call for high performance and maximum fuel economy.
Mike Yates
4 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 5
NEWS FROM TCI
Each of our General Managers have prepared a small introduction and update on the activities
at their location to familiarize our current and potential customers with their management team.
At Truck Centers, we feel that it is important for you to know that we are not only dedicated to
superior service, facilities and resources to ensure a positive experience; but also, to provide an
opportunity to get to know some of the team members who are working diligently for you.
Katie Hopkins Steve Bartels Bryan Jubelt Jim Pennington Paul Lawrence Jeremy Williams Randy Melvin Steve Lanier Travis Dunn Keith Krider Julie Klebba Webb Eastham Buddy Shires Suzanne Talley
General Manager Parts Manager Service Manager General Manager/ Parts Manager General Manager/Parts Manager Service Manager General Manager General Manager Parts Manager General Manager Parts Manager General Manager Parts Manager
khopkins@truckcentersinc.com sbartels@truckcentersinc.com bjubelt@truckcentersinc.com Service Manager plawrence@truckcentersinc.com jwilliams@truckcentersinc.com rmelvin@truckcentersinc.com slanier@truckcentersinc.com tdunn@truckcentersinc.com kkrider@truckcentersinc.com jklebba@truckcentersinc.com weastham@truckcentersinc.com bshires@truckcentersinc.com suzannetalley@truckcentersinc.com
jpennington@truckcentersinc.com
TROY
I-55/I-70 & Hwy. 162
(800) 669-3454
ST. LOUIS SPRINGFIELD
I-55 & Hwy 29
(800) 786-1280
M-F 7a-12a Sa 7a-5p ST. PETERS MORTON MOUNT EVANSVILLE
VERNON
24/7 Parts & Service I-64 & Hwy 41
I-70 & Broadway – I-70 & Hwy 79 I-74 & Exit 102B
Downtown St. Louis The year is simply passing by way too quickly. It is the waning (800) 985-0380 (800) 397-4292 (800) 680-5910
As Truck Centers approaches another milestone, 45
years in business, I have been thinking a lot about our (800) 325-8809 days of the summer season already but where are those M-F 7A-11P Sa 8A-4P M-F 7a-12a M-F 7:30a-12a
history and culture. Small businesses fail at a rate of 9 24 Hrs M-F warm, sun shiny days hiding at? Illinois is currently totally Sa-Su 7a-3:30p I-57/I-64 & Rt. 15 Sa 7:30a-5p
saturated with rain, flooding many rivers, towns, crop fields While our General Manager Steve (800) 786-2545
of 10 in the first 18 months and the average Fortune Sa-Su 6a-6p Lanier is out, I am taking advantage
and structures. Hopefully all of our employees, families, Well last time we did our M-F 6a-12a Ryan Seibert
500 company has a total life expectancy span of 15 of this opportunity to write an entry articles, Thanksgiving just Service Manager
years according to Forbes.com. So the question is what customers, vendors and friends have not endured any tragedy on his behalf. Sorry Steve! My name Sa-Su 7a-7p
Hello again from “The during this time. passed and we were getting rseibert@truckcentersinc.com
make Truck Centers’ different? Why has this company is Jon Rothove and I am the new ready for the winter months.
Lou” and very big Continuous Improvement Coordinator
Anthony Johnson
beat those statistics and continued to grow over the thank you for your I hope everyone had a great Service Manager June 1st marked one year since the acquisition of Freightliner of
years, slowly and steadily? TCI Springfield-Decatur recently had the pleasure to honor (CIC) and Inside Parts Salesman for holiday and stayed warm.
continued support and ajohnson@truckcentersinc.com Evansville by TCI. The last year been has been one of transition as
a few employees with service awards. Jake Meyer (Decatur TCI’s Saint Peters location. I have Finally, it is summer and,
patronage from our over fifteen years experience in the we became a part of a much larger family. While trying to keep
I obviously have a biased opinion on all of these Parts) received a plaque for his loyal 5 year anniversary boy, have we had the rain changes to a minimum, there will inherently be adjustments.
entire team! with the company. Recently, Jake and Kayla were united in trucking industry as well as thirteen this year? I feel like I have Hello from Southern Illinois! Summer is in full swing
questions. So I throw that out there right at the beginning and I am sharing from years in logistics while serving in the mowed my yard every day and I hope that you are enjoying your time in the great However, the TCI culture is a good fit for our team here in Evansville.
my childhood memories, which may or may not be 100% dead on. Many Saturdays marriage to begin their prosperous relationship together. We United States Marine Corps. We have During the past year, all staff members worked very hard to make
The St. Louis team strives each and every day are sure hoping they do return to Illinois from the honeymoon this summer. Oh well nothing outdoors. the necessary changes while working to maintain the high level of
were spent at Truck Centers back in the days when it was called Central Illinois exciting things happening here in St. we can do about it but enjoy
Truck Centers and was housed in what is currently a City of Highland building. I can to ensure that our customers, both local and in Hawaii. :) Judy Buraski (Springfield Admin/Receptionist) Peters - our store is currently in the the summer and the heat.
customer service we were accustomed to providing to our clients.
transient, receive “World Class Customer Service” was presented a plaque for her loyal and dedicated 30 year process of becoming an Elite Support I would like to mention something that our company
remember that smell of popcorn in the front entrance that was also the front parts does that I am very proud of. Our employees receive From a product standpoint, between Freightliner and Western Star
each and every time. Whether its adding additional anniversary with TCI. Judy and many others have become my certified dealership hopefully by the Speaking of summer heat,
counter. I remember the feel of family in the place, everyone working there seemed end of the calendar year. This is a we have all the stores a service award for every fives years of service at TCI. pushing a 40% market share will present some challenges to make
to be an extension of the family. I remember also driving with our family when my inside parts salesmen, extending our hours as of second family throughout the years experiencing great times
huge accomplishment since our little stocked for the summer Whenever possible, one of the owners themselves sure we can always take care of our customers. With this in mind,
dad asked what we thought of changing the CITC name to something else. All of December 1, 2014, offering Express Assessment, and moments together along with the economy recession Suzanne is constantly reviewing our parts orders to make sure we
store is still the new kid on the block. months so please stop by will make a trip to each location and present the
us had a chance to throw our ideas in the ring, and what I don’t remember was Elite Support certification or stocking nearly $2 cycles. She has decided to retire from the company in early if you’re A/C unit is having have what our customers need and the quantities to fill their needs
We are clearly thriving thanks to our employees with their plaque and a monetary bonus.
what my idea actually was, if I had one. There were so many Christmas parties and Million in on-site parts inventory, our goal is premier September to enjoy time with her husband and family along dedicated team and loyal customers! any issues. Please take in a timely manner. In service, Ryan is always looking at ways to
with possibly picking up former hobby of bowling. Please wish Our employees always feel appreciated and these attract new technicians and maximize all hours of operations (which
I really loved watching the TCI employees go dance to the music and there was service and care each and every time. advantage of our Express
her the best when you speak with or visit her in the store as Elite Support is a DTNA program that Assessment bay in the things usually start to fade in companies our size so are the most accessible in the market).
always that special picture in front of the truck. Granted I didn’t maybe appreciate we are blessed. This personal touch is just one of the The last year has also seen us embrace Express Assessment
the truck picture as much back then but it was a tradition and a family moment. I she will soon be deeply missed by all. When Judy announced certifies premier dealers have met service dept and with our
With the Midwest summer being what it is, we her retirement plans, later that week I shared a video article or exceeded critical facility, parts, stout stocked parts inventory, reasons that I feel we have so many longstanding with the goal to promptly diagnose and estimate the repair cost
can remember the special evening where all the employees were invited to Diamond understand the challenges that our customers staffing and customer service needs we will make sure that your employees and low turnover at Truck Centers. I did and needs within two hours of a customer’s arrival so they can
Mineral Springs to celebrate the TCI win of the ATD “Truck Dealer of the Year” award. with her regarding an auto dealership salesman that still make the necessary decisions regarding their truck and loads. We
face with your equipment. We also understand the enjoys going to work six days a week at the young age of 105 to guarantee a consistent, customer- downtime is minimal. If a quick calculation here in Mt. Vernon and including
We all received a ring commemorating the occasion. I still have mine, it’s like a class challenge we have ahead for our team to provide oriented commitment to excellence. you have any body, fram or part-time, our average tenure is just shy of 12 years. also have our first TCI F.I.R.S.T. participant entering the training
ring from 1980’s, so very fancy when I bring it out but it was a special moment in attempting to persuade her to stay for many more years – it Fortunately for us, TCI was one of the trailer issues, we can also and apprenticeship program. This program is a great resource
the service that you need and deserve keep your didn’t work! And this includes five new hires this year! for young people looking for in-demand careers and a stable
our history. first dealer groups to jump on board handle those here in Morton
units one the road and turning revenue rather than with the program so we have our at our Collision Center. We company as it selects an elite crop of high school, VoTech and trade
I could go on with the memories but over all these years, Truck Centers has survived sitting in the shop. Uptime has been the buzzword I would like to take the opportunity to introduce a few new sister stores to look to for guidance do offer on-site estimates On another note, we recently took our grill out on school applicants as well as former military personnel to learn the
a lot of turbulent times in the industry. The culture of the company is what I believe for some time now and that is what we strive to faces to the TCI team. Tricia Thomas will be filling the admin/ and experience. For customers, one and trailer repairs if needed. the road and had a customer appreciation meal for fundementals of service technology to get a foot into the shop door
has allowed us to thrive and grow when others have not been so fortunate. “Do what provide you and your company! Others may speak receptionist position. She and her fiancé Dustin live in of the most exciting things about If you are a parts customer Shawnee Express located in Herrin, Illinois. My parts at TCI. We are looking forward to our student graduating and coming
Elite Support is Express Assessment. in the Bloomington-Normal manager, Webb Eastham, manned the grill and the to work with us this fall and hopefully share the word with other
is right.” That is written on all of our dealership walls and it is a mantra that I feel has of it but we have processes and resources in place Springfield and will be married later this fall. James Melvin former classmates at Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center.
joined the team in our truck detail department. Andrew Snider Express Assessment is designed to area, our Hudson location rest of us helped with the fixings. We got to enjoy time
made its’ mark through the company. There are so many opportunities for us all to to make the talk a reality. Having your vehicle on the provide the customer with an initial is ready for you to call on
“do what is right” but it’s the freedom to really do that that has made the difference has been assisting the parts department on a part-time with Gary and Glenda Krutsinger and their crew. Gary
road and turning miles is your life blood and what single failure diagnosis, check of for added convenience. The started the company in 1982 and from reading their
We recently expanded to add a 10,000 sq. ft. collision center
in our company’s path. I could give a hundred examples of our team stepping up and drives us to be at our very best each day. Even with basis keeping the stock shelves organized and cycle counted parts inventory and repair estimate team would be happy to at 5900 Old Boonville Hwy in Evansville. This location was
doing what is right. for inventory accuracy. He recently became enrolled in the within two hours of their arrival to accommodate you. history, they have a lot in common with TCI operating formerly occupied by Mills Truck Equipment and allows us a great
freight tonnage being a little bit of a roller coaster on strong Christian, family values. Through the years, opportunity to enter the heavy-duty body repair business here in
second TCI F.I.R.S.T. (Future In Repair Service Technology) help expedite the repair process and
Over all these years, different programs have come and gone but Truck Centers has so far this year, we see our service and parts teams We try to be your one stop Shawnee has hauled a variety of freight throughout 48 Evansville. We can now take care of all of our customer needs and
class as part of our apprenticeship program and he will give the customer the information
never strayed from our core beliefs and values. Today, DTNA has a program you have staying very busy to give our customers the very hopefully have a long career as technician. necessary to make prompt, critical shop so when you are visiting us please provide us with your states plus Canada. Also like TCI, Gary is fortunate to warranty items in our own internal network to control the process
best possible experience. decisions regarding their truck. feedback or suggestions that you may have on additional have long-time employees. Two of their top mechanics and make it as stressfree as possible for our customers. We are
no doubt heard about, Elite Support, which formalizes into processes much of what services or features to make your visit more pleasant. If
have been there since the beginning over 30 years ago pleased to have Bryan McDaniel as our collision center manager
TCI has already represented over the years. I believe this program across the DTNA As manufacturers and companies continually invest in their there is ever something that we could do better or different and feel he and his team will do their best to take care of your
network is a game changer in provider to our customers by offering best in class As we move into fall and the challenges ahead of us, We want our store to become the – way to go Jeff Bradford and Donnie Shaw!
research and development programs to be on the leading one-stop partner that companies please let us know. We strive to make our customers feel as repair needs.
service consistently across the USA. we look forward to serving your company and the edge of technology, Daimler Trucks North America showcased and drivers look forward to working comfortable as possible when visiting a dealership.
needs of your truck, trucks or fleet. Truck Centers the first autonomous truck licensed for U.S. highways and with when the need arises, whether I am thankful for all of our team members here at Since the last issue, we have also welcomed John Kobylanski as
With the product innovations that DTNA has invested in (and that you will read I would also like to thank our team members for always going Truck Centers and the good business partners like
and the St. Louis team are here for you and your is leading the competition. The Freightliner Inspiration truck for sales, parts or service. Watch the extra mile and making sure the customer is always our first
our Sprinter Brand Manager. While John is based in Evansville,
about in several other articles in this magazine) and the culture that Truck Centers company and we look forward providing you and for exciting things here in St. Peters Shawnee Express that we have the pleasure of working he is responsible for Sprinter sales at all the TCI locations. I know
was granted approval in early May by the governor of Nevada. priority. We all understand that when you turn into our lot, you
represents, I am looking forward to the next 45 years. Granted I will be 96 then, and all positive steps in making our alongside. It takes the entire dedicated team to make he would love to hear from you any answer any questions that
your company that “World Class Customer Service” Amazing progress of innovation throughout the last few have chosen our dealership over others and thank you for that!!! you have regarding Sprinter and their exciting new lineup that
so that fourth or fifth generation will be leading the charge at that time and I will customers’ experience only more Please enjoy your summer and give us call if you need anything. us all successful so thank you!
that I speak of and that you deserve. decades and I can’t wait to see what the future holds! includes all-wheel drive units. We now look forward to year two
hopefully be there just to see it all thriving! positive. If you have any comments We will be happy to assist you in your transportation needs.
or suggestions, please contact me! and many more to come!
Thank You for Your Support! Have a safe summer!
Til next time, Until next time! Regards,
Take care, Sincerely, Julie Klebba Sincerely,
Katie Hopkins Jim Pennington Travis Dunn
Jeremy Williams Jon Rothove Buddy Shires
6 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 7
FROM THE DESK OF
Last month, I was lucky enough to accompany 16 of our technicians and managers
to the plant in Detroit, Mich. Trips like this are what allow our people to see exactly
why Detroit makes the finest engines and transmissions in the world and affords
us the opportunity to develop strong relationships with the manufacturer to help us
DPFS NOW
gain inroads when needing support for our customers’ trucks. And secretly, I really
like being able to see what is next on the horizon! Between you, me, and the 2000
Justin Hopkins: VP of Sales other people that are reading this magazine, it is really cool stuff!
CLEANED HERE
Speaking of really cool stuff, I was lucky enough to be invited to Las Vegas
Well summer is finally upon us and during this time of year that’s filled with to be a part of history. Freightliner recently unveiled the first Autonomous
BBQs, I tend to get a bit reflective on where we are vs. where we came Commercial Vehicle in world that you will read about more in this issue! Many
people that I have talked to question its purpose in this world. But I can see this
from. Freightliner and Truck Centers have both come a long way since I technology has traction! The Platoon option they are working on where trucks
got to climb around on the old cab overs in the bone yard of Troy and the link together would significantly reduce fuel consumption and then of course the
ALL DAY, EVERY DAY!
Columbias of the late 90’s and early 00’s. The Cascadias auto pilot feature was mesmerizing! In short order with some Federal
and 5700s that are being built today are arguably the government assistance (I know, right? Sounds like an oxymoron!),
finest trucks on the road. They are certainly the most we could have these trucks operating on interstate highways during
daylight hours when no inclement weather is present. The GPS
fuel-efficient anyway! It always makes me smile each system that is already on the truck could be linked to the appropriate
time a new customer gets into a Cascadia with a DD15 state department of transportation web sites to further ensure safe
and runs the truck. Their excitement over the fuel operation of vehicles so they wouldn’t work in construction zones. If
numbers is energizing! I can see the gears turning in we can get up to the minute traffic on our smartphones, it is entirely
their heads about the amount of additional income they possible to get it in the truck. People worry about autonomous
vehicles and the safety implications. I, too, worry about this but I
will now make due to this technological advancement. recently read an article in USA Today about the Google autonomous
It gets even better when they come to find out that car. It has been in 12 accidents. 100% of them are caused by real
reliability of the Detroit engine is equally head and people not the computer. There is some discussion that the car is
shoulders above the competition! actually too safe and that is why people keep crashing into it! Imagine
that something can be deemed too safe.
I get to share this similar excitement when we deliver new trucks to
current customers. They are trading in the pre-GHG14 trucks and seeing roughly the same So, in closing, I will leave you with this - these are extremely exciting times! The level
spike in fuel economy they did when they went from 2009 to 2010. This is due to Daimler of innovation that is coming into our industry is truly awe inspiring! It might not be
Trucks North America commitment to improve fuel economy by 5% every two years. While quite to the level of the invention of what the gasoline engine did to the buggy whip
the bar is getting ever higher, it certainly makes new and return customers extremely happy industry; but there are seriously amazing things happening all around us! Enjoy your
when their bottom lines continue to improve. It is great to know that you are supporting a summer and I look forward to us finding out what the next innovation is together!
product and company that are not complacent and will continually work to achieve new
goals just as 19523
the consumers do.
Monroe CVad_Print.pdf 1 1/30/14 10:15 AM Justin Hopkins
Truck Centers, Inc. is pleased to now offer DPF
Cleaning Service utilizing FSX Technology as
another value-added service to better serve our
customers. Trained specialists utilize our new,
in-house equipment that can swiftly clean your
filter from ash and soot that accumulates and
reduces filter life and performance.
C
M
Y
CM
DPF CLEANING HELPS: Please contact your OPS or our
MY
• Reduce regenerations
Parts Department at (800) 669-3454
CY for more information!
• Lower maintenance costs
CMY
• Extend expensive filter life
K
• Reduce costly, unscheduled downtime
• Help maintain optimal performance
www.truckcentersinc.com
St. Louis, MO St. Peters, MO Evansville, IN Decatur, IL Hudson, IL Morton, IL Mt. Vernon, IL Springfield, IL Troy, IL
747 E. Taylor Ave. 8016 Veterans Mem. Pkwy. 325 Rusher Creek 5002 Cundiff Ct. 19336 N 1425 East Rd. 300 E. Ashland St. 621 S. 45th St. 2981 E. Singer Ave. 2280 Formosa Rd.
St. Louis, MO 63147 St.Peters, MO 63376 Evansville, IN 47725 Decatur, IL 62526 Hudson, IL 61748 Morton, IL 61550 Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 Springfield, IL 62703 Troy, IL 62294
(314) 381-3800 (636) 978-3870 (812) 868-2700 (217) 877-0152 (636) 614-3470 (309) 263-4240 (618) 244-2545 (217) 525-1280 (618) 667-3454
(800) 325-8809 (800) 985-0380 (800) 680-5910 (855) 287-1228 (800) 397-4292 (800) 786-2545 (800) 786-1280 (800) 669-3454
8 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 9
Special
Driveline Service Truck Centers, Inc. recently relocated our popular driveline service to our Troy store to offer expanded hours
As part of our ongoing for reduced downtime and get customers back on the road quicker than ever! Our veteran driveline experts can repair damaged drivelines or
build new ones to specification to promptly get your truck back on the road. Contact your nearest TCI Service Department for more information!
commitment to offer our
customers the latest
technology and advancements
for lower overall cost of
ownership, Truck Centers
proudly offers five special
Services
services. These special services
are designed to save you
valuable time and money so
please take a moment to see
what the buzz is all about.
Radiator Repair Truck Centers, Inc. offers
in-house radiator repair services for all makes and models
of heavy trucks. Our experienced staff has decades of
experience in radiators and can promptly evaluate any
radiator to determine whether it can be repaired or rebuilt.
In the instances a radiator cannot be repaired, a TCI parts
specialist will work with customers to locate and install new
units in a prompt, cost-effective manner.
Frame Repairs Accidents happen but
Truck Centers, Inc. is always here to help. TCI has the
most advanced equipment available in the industry and
experienced technicians that have the ability to bring even the
most twisted and mangled frames back to perfect alignment
thanks to cold pulling and laser alignment. In addition to
frame straightening, we also offer three axle alignments.
Refurbishment Performance Where It Counts… Savings Where It Matters! DPF Cleaning Truck DPF Cleaning Helps:
With the soaring costs of raw • Breathe new life into your trucks with Detroit Step-UP engine refurb options with up to 3 year/300,000 Centers, Inc. is pleased to offer
materials and emissions technology, mile warranty and various reman drivetrain options DPF Cleaning Service utilizing FSX • Reduce regenerations
new truck prices continue to climb. • Fleet mechanics continue working on known equipment and technology so there is no additional training Technology as another value- • Lower maintenance costs
Truck Centers, Inc. has a proven or tooling costs added service to better serve our • Extend expensive filter life
refurbishment program that several • Save on FET taxes and EPA up charges associated with new equipment purchases customers. Trained specialists • Reduce costly, unscheduled
national fleet customers have utilized • Refurbishment provides a cost effective restoration for improved performance, driver morale, appearance, utilize our new, in-house equipment
downtime
to extend the life of their current fleet. uptime and DOT compliance that can swiftly clean your filter from
Refurbished trucks offer new truck • Reduced fleet investment and downtime compared to new equipment purchases ash and soot that accumulates and • Help maintain optimal
reliability and comfort with less cost • Refurbishment is a “green” process that utilizes the three pillars of recycling and waste reduction reduces filter life and performance. performance
and downtime. • Tax incentive of bonus depreciation for initial year of refurb and through the taxable life of the refurbishment
1010SUMMER 2015 ww
www.w.
t r turcukcckecnetnetresrisnicn.cc.oc m
PLEASE CONTACT YOUR OPS OR OUR PARTS DEAPRTMENT for more information!
SUMMER 2015driveN
driveN
12 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 13
[
First Look: St. Louis Area
Transportation Plan Preview
The East-West Gateway Council of Governments (EWG),
St. Louis region’s federally designated Metropolitan
Planning Organization, recently gave a first look at their
proposal for the region’s infrastructure development
plan. Connected2045 establishes a project and policy-
based framework that will be implemented through
a variety of short-range transportation plans and
programs. The Plan addresses immediate needs as
well as the future of transportation in St. Louis.
"
People think transportation 100
years ago was fundamentally
different, but it wasn’t really.
Back then we had steam-
engine trains, trolleys, Model
T’s. Now we have diesel-
electric trains, the Metro and,
IndustryNews
soon, automated vehicles.
- Shawn Leight, VP of Crawford, Bunte, Brammeir,
and adjunct professor at Washington University
The 4 Biggest Myths
Ab o u t T r u c k e r s
For2015
14 SUMMER moredriveN
information
> driveN SUMMER 2015 15
[
IndustryNews
CONT.
"
Makers of Collision-Mitigation “It’s kind of nice to see all this conversation about
Systems Say They Pay for Themselves this technology,” said Fred Andersky, director New GHG Proposal Tightens Truck Agility Now Freightliner’s Sole Natural
of government and industry affairs at Bendix Emissions, Includes First Trailer Gas Fuel System Provider
Representatives of Bendix and Meritor Wabco, the two major Commercial Vehicle Systems, in an interview with Targets
suppliers of safety devices that warn drivers of impending HDT. “There must be something there,” and fleet- Freightliner signs exclusive deal with Agility Fuel Systems
collisions, are glad to see renewed attention put on their customer experience shows that it’s positive. On June 19, the federal government issued its long-awaited for its natural gas fuel systems. Under a seven-year
products by recommendations issued this week by the National proposal to further tighten greenhouse-gas emissions for agreement between the two companies, Agility will provide
Transportation Safety Board. But they say they don’t necessarily “It’s not all that surprising,” he said of NTSB’s push. trucks, improve their fuel economy and regulate trailer custom-designed products, according to the custom chassis
want to see them mandated on trucks. “A lot of collisions occur, and there are different efficiency for the first time. The joint proposal from the U.S. manufacturer.
types, including rollover and jackknifes. Collisions Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway
And they make a point of calling the products “collision with stationary (or slow-moving) objects are a lot Santa Ana, Calif.-based Agility designs and produces
mitigation” systems, because they cannot promise to eliminate more serious than those from lack of roll stability Traffic Safety Administration would phase in more stringent
standards for heavy- and medium-duty trucks from 2021 compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG)
accidents, only to reduce their severity. The NTSB used the term control.
“collision avoidance” in its call Monday for the National Highway through 2027. fuel systems for heavy-duty vehicles. Freightliner has worked
Traffic Safety Administration to require such devices on new with Agility since 2002.
trucks and cars. Those benefits are driving industry adoption in absence of a The 1,329-page main proposal includes separate standards
mandate. for engines and vehicles. The trailer regulation would kick Agility recently announced the opening of a new manufacturing
in Jan. 1, 2018, and then tighten in 2021 and 2024 before facility in Salisbury, N.C., which is in close proximity to the
"
reaching its most stringent level in 2027. “Once upon a time, Freightliner manufacturing plants in Cleveland, N.C., and Mt.
Companies that are developing this type of Holly, N.C., where the Freightliner Cascadia 113, M2 112,
product are not waiting for NHTSA to come to be pro-environment you had to be anti-big-vehicles. This
rule will change that,” U.S Transportation Secretary Anthony and 114SD natural gas trucks are produced. Expected to
out with a rule,” said Alan Korn, director of start production in late 2015, it is the industry’s first vertically
Advanced Brake Systems Integration for Foxx said. “In fact, these efficiency standards are good for the
environment — and the economy. When trucks use less fuel, integrated natural gas fuel system production facility, according
Meritor Wabco Vehicle Control Systems. to Freightliner.
“We’re responding to a demand" from shipping costs go down.”
"
safety-minded fleets. Fuel is an enormous expense for our industry Freightliner currently has more than 6,000 natural
— and carbon emissions carry an enormous gas trucks on the road.
cost for our planet. That’s why our industry
supported the Obama administration’s historic
first round of greenhouse gas and fuel-
efficiency standards for medium and large
trucks and why we support the aims of this
second round of standards,” said Bill Graves,
the president of the American
Trucking Association.
The proposal applies to semi-trucks, large pickup trucks and
vans, and all types of buses and work trucks. EPA and NHTSA
said the proposal would cut carbon-dioxide emissions and fuel
consumption for tractors by up to 24% in 2027, compared
with 2018 levels. “This proposal will save consumers,
businesses and truck owners money, and at the same time
spur technology innovation and job growth while protecting
Americans’ health and our environment over the long haul,”
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said.
[ Photo: Meritor Wabco ]
16 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 17INCOMING VEHICLE
EXPRESS SERVICE
ADVISOR
WRITE-UP
St. Louis, MO
ASSESSMENT
747 E. Taylor Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63147
(314) 381-3800
VEHICLE ROUTING
(800) 325-8809
St. Peters, MO
8016 Veterans Mem. Pkwy.
St. Peters, MO 63376
(636) 978-3870
DIAGNOSIS
(800) 985-0380
Evansville, IN
325 Rusher Creek
Evansville, IN 47725
(812) 868-2700
(800) 680-5910
Decatur, IL
5002 Cundiff Ct.
DIAGNOSIS SIMPLE
Decatur, IL 62526
Any vehicle that
(217) 877-0152
requires more
Hudson, IL
YES than one hour of
COMPLETE? REPAIR?
19336 N 1425 East Rd.
Hudson, IL 61748 diagnosis or has
(855) 287-1228 multiple repair
Morton, IL needs will be
300 E. Ashland St. moved to the
NO
Morton, IL 61550
YES
main shop.
(309) 263-4240
(800) 397-4292
Mt. Vernon, IL
NO Express Assess-
ment is only
621 S. 45th St.
Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 offered during
(618) 244-2545 first shift week-
(800) 786-2545 days unless
Springfield, IL otherwise posted.
2981 E. Singer Ave.
Springfield, IL 62703
EXPRESS REPAIR
(217) 525-1280
(800) 786-1280
Troy, IL
2280 Formosa Rd.
MAIN SHOP
Troy, IL 62294
(618) 667-3454
(800) 669-3454 www.truckcentersinc.com
18 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 19TCI F.I.R.S.T.
TCI F.I.R.S.T. – The Sophomore Class
Southern Indiana Career & Technical Center
TCI had the pleasure of being one of the career day
Gov. Rauner Kicked Off
S o u thern I l l in o i s T o u r at T r u c k C enter s , I nc .
Over the last half-decade, the practical skills from experienced participants at the Southern Indiana Career and
management and service support professionals. And, thus, the TCI Technical Center in Evansville, Ind., to discuss the
team of Truck Centers, Inc. has Future in Repair Service Technology opportunities available through our F.I.R.S.T. program.
worked together to design an (F.I.R.S.T.) program was fine-tuned Our team was highly impressed with SICTS and the
Diesel Service Technology program offered there.
apprenticeship program to help train and launched.
and place future technicians in our SICTC is part of the Evansville Vanderburgh School
network shops. With a nationwide Our first official F.I.R.S.T. class Corporation and serves approximately 800 students
from Vanderburgh, Warrick, Posey, North and South
technician shortage and some of successfully completed the program Gibson, and the southern half of Spencer counties
our seasoned veteran technicians and entered the work force in the by offering 20 courses of study in 10 different
nearing retirement age, we have fourth quarter of 2014. We are career clusters. All of the programs prepare students
worked diligently to stay ahead of the pleased to report that all students for high skill, high wage, or high demand careers
curve so that these novices can not who finished the program were including 35 of the Hoosier Hot 50 jobs. The Career
Center is identified by the National Research Center
only get practical, classroom training, placed within two TCI stores and are for Career and Technical Education as one of the top
but also be able to work along some continuing to build their skill set and five secondary career centers in the United States.
of the best in the business to learn experience on the job.
The graduation rate for students who attend SICTC
was over 95% for the 2012-13 school year. In a
follow-up study in 2011, it was determined that 69%
of students who had taken classes at CTE continue
their education with a post-secondary educational
experience 15 months after graduation, and 51% of
the students who are employed entered occupations
related to their training at the school.
The school’s Diesel Service Technology is a two year
course designed for high school juniors and seniors.
The training program is Master Accredited by ASE/ Truck Centers, Inc. was proud to host Gov. Bruce Rauner for his
NATEF. Areas of Accreditation include Diesel Engines, first stop on a tour of southern Illinois to highlight his pro-business,
Drive Train, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Brakes,
Heating & Air Conditioning, Preventive Maintenance education and economic growth platform. Echoing most of his agenda
Inspection, and Suspension & Steering. Training is from his first State of the State address, the new Republican leader
divided between the classroom and labs that
feature the latest tools and industry equipment. launched a four-stop tour of Southern Illinois.
Students are also trained beyond hands-on Rauner spoke to an audience of a few hundred local officials, key business representatives, educators
technical skills. They learn critical computer and voters and reiterated he is here to work for the voters of Illinois. His primary platform centers on
skills and receive training on different three main pillars of jobs and industry, education and governmental reform. Meanwhile, the Governor
facets of communication including effective and other elected representatives in the state have a daunting challenge of remedying budget gaps
[ Inaugural TCI F.I.R.S.T. Graduates, Trainers and Mentors ] writing techniques and how to interact with and fiscal crises.
customers, colleagues and management. As
a prospective employer, we were extremely “A lot of our government is not run for your benefit. It’s run for the benefit of the people in the
impressed by the facility, staff and students
at SICTC and look forward to fostering a long- government,” Rauner stated.
Welcome to the TCI standing relationship with them. Job well done!
The governor mentioned the need for reforms to improve infrastructure, right-to-work zones, taxation
F.I.R.S.T. 2015 Participants changes and incentives to make Illinois a lucrative base for industry and commerce because of our
location as a primary transportation corridor. This was welcomed news for the audience including
Truck Centers, a family-owned Freightliner truck dealer network that operates 9 Midwestern locations
Ray Braden Cody Hunter including 6 in Illinois.
Andrew Christ MaKayla Saalweachter
He also mentioned the need to reintroduce and support trade education and skill development in
Jacob Feldmann Andrew Snider local schools and to curb unnecessary governmental waste to help Illinois grow and prosper.
Joshua Funk
Gov. Rauner toured the facility in Troy before moving on to his next stop in Mt. Vernon.
20 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 21We Do ‘Em All
WE RAISED THE STANDARD
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The full-service Collision Centers of Truck Centers, Inc. provide a dedicated team of professionals and certified body shop technicians that can handle everything Michelle Petroff
from alignments, driveshaft and radiator repairs to custom paint service, intensive accident repairs and complete truck refurbishment service for all makes and
models. With over 45 years of superior customer service, industry-best equipment and a preferred shop rating for most insurance companies, Truck Centers,
Inc. is a proven provider for all of your truck repair needs because customers are our first priority! Reduce Repair Downtime. Increase Your Bottomline. E M A I L
mpetroff@truckcentersinc.com
www.truckcentersinc.com
TCI-EVANSVILLE COLLISION CENTER TCI-Morton Collision Center TCI-TROY Collision Center
Southern Indiana (I-69 exit 9) Northern Illinois (I-74 exit 102B) St. Louis Metro (I-55/70 exit 18)
BRYAN MCDANIEL, MANAGER Cheryl Williams, Manager KENT ZOBRIST, MANAGER
since 19
70 (800) 680-5910 (800) 397-4292 (800) 695-9924
bmcdaniel@truckcentersinc.com cwilliams@truckcentersinc.com kzobrist@truckcentersinc.com P.O. Box 1989. Longview, Texas 75606-1989 | www.stemco.com | Tel: 903-758-9981 Fax: 903-232-3508
©2012 STEMCO LP
22Radiator
SUMMER Shop Driveline Repair Premier Facilities
2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 23TCI
AWARDS
Elite Support Awards
Truck Centers’ Continuous Improvement Coordinators (CICs)
for Elite Support continually work to keep our facilities and
processes operating at optimum efficiency. At their annual
convention, Paige Wallace of TCI-Evansville joined the elite
ranks of the Summit Club for her ongoing dedication and
excellence to the key principles of Elite Support. Additionally,
Steve Spihlman (TCI-Corporate) accepted the award for the
Continuous Improvement Event of the Year for the TCI Future in
Repair Service Technology (F.I.R.S.T.) program. This is a great
accomplishment for Steve and TCI and we are very honored as [ TCI CIC Team (L-R) John Pryor, Candy Beach, Paige Wallace,
it was awarded via a peer vote. Keep up the good work, team! Cassie Caccia, and Steve Spihlman ]
Springfield Receives 2015 Environment and Safety Elite Award
Congratulations to TCI-Springfield on exceeding the standards of excellence for environmental and safety practices in the automotive industry.
Paul Glubczynski of KPA nominated our Springfield store for the Elite status recognition from the Clean Auto Alliance as an acknowledgment
of ongoing efforts towards environmental protection and the health and safety of our employees, facility, and the community. The award was
TCI Presented
one of only 31 honored in the United States.
with Donaldson
Redline Detection NameS
“At Redline, we have tremendous admiration for the hard-working
Eagle Award
men and women who get up and give their best to the industry and
the community every day. Our quality products are made right here
Truck Centers, Inc. received the Truck Centers’ Rob McNees in America, because we believe that American workers are the finest
in the world. Through the Redline Rock Star Performance Award, we
Eagle Award from Dave Gillispie of
the Donaldson Company earlier this
[ TCI Parts Marketing Manager Gary Moore (L) and Executive Vice President Katie Hopkins
accept the award from David Gillispie (R) ] as 2015 Redline Rock Star hope to honor these impressive men and women,” said Alex Parker,
executive vice president of Redline Detection. “This award recognizes
Performance Award Winner
year in recognition of over $1M in a technician for their commitment to making a difference in the
annual purchases over the last 10 industry, their work and their community—the same values that our
years. We appreciate Donaldson’s
ongoing support and collaboration
to provide superior products and
Morton Named Top Oasis Dealer
Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. recognized Morton as one of the five top Oasis dealers
Redline Detection, the industry leader in OEM-mandated diagnostic leak
detection equipment, today announced the winner of its 2015 Redline
team at Redline live by every day.”
Applicants were judged on:
Rock Star Performance Award. Rob McNees of Truck Centers, Inc. was 1. Technicial Excellence
service to our mutual customers. in the nation for product support in 2014. Congratulations to our Morton team!
selected by the Redline Technical Advisory Board as the winner and 2. Mentoring Young Technicians
received more than $4,000 in cash and prizes from Redline Detection. 3. Commitment to Family
4. Involvement in the Community
McNees, a top tier ASE Master Certified HeavyDuty truck technician,
TCI-Evansville Group has worked at Truck Centers, Inc. for 28 years in St.
Louis, Mo. As the proven top technician at TCI, he
According to Parker, Redline received hundreds of
nominations for outstanding technicians around the
Receives Indiana was nominated by manager Jim Pennington for his
exceptional mechanical abilities and dedicated
nation underscoring how talented technicians are
moving the field forward. Rob stood out from
Career and Technical
hard work. Having years of experience, McNees the others as a technician who is consistently
is recognized as the “Answer Man” amongst his dedicated to improving not only his own
coworkers, but is also known for being a humble knowledge and skills, but also contributing
Education Partnership and patient leader as a mentor for TCI F.I.R.S.T.
(Future in Repair Service Technology) apprentice
to the knowledge of his colleagues and the
young technicians he mentors. Rob is a real
Award for Excellence
TCI-Evansville’s partnership and ongoing support
program, where he shares valuable experience
and technical knowledge to help the next
generation of technicians.
leader in the industry, in his workplace, and
in the community.
“I am honored to be selected for the 2015
of the Diesel Service Technology program at the McNees is a certified “Expert” in Freightliner and Redline Rock Star Performance Award and
Southern Indiana Career & Technical Center, Detroit training and is also Cummins, Caterpillar, Allison to be nominated by TCI’s general manager Jim
along with other key industry providers, resulted Transmission, Eaton Transmission and Meritor transmission Pennington,” said McNees. “I’m confident the new
in the group being selected to receive the Indiana certified. He is also the recipient of many prestigious industry Redline tools we received as part of my prize will be very
Career and Technical Education Partership Award awards including Freightliner’s ASE Master Technician of the Year helpful in diagnosing intake and exhaust leaks.”
for Excellence from the Indiana Department of in 2011, winner of the TCI Technician Challenge, and top honors
Education. We are so proud of this partnership in the Repair Order Work Station of the 2011 American Trucking Congratulations on another national award, Robbie! It is a well
and being a part of helping students meet their Association's Technology & Maintenance Council's SuperTech deserved recognition for a job well done!
potential and serve our industry. Well done! Competition. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, camping, hunting and
[ Program Partners including Evansville GM, Buddy Shires, 3rd from right ] gardening with his wife, Belva, and two children, Patrick and Brianna. [ Rob McNees with TCI GM Jim Pennington ]
24 SUMMER 2015 driveN > driveN SUMMER 2015 25You can also read
