Safety is always top of mind
Interview with Kelby Bentley, TMCSuperTech 2019 Grand Champion
Kelby Bentley, a technician at FedEx Freight, was crowned the TMCSuperTech 2019 Grand Champion by the ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council. In the final rounds of the Heavy-Duty Track, Kelby competed among 87 technicians. Trucking Moves America Forward (TMAF) interviewed Kelby after he won the top honor.
How does it feel to win this top honor?
It is really a great feeling to be able to represent FedEx Freight as a top technician. Competing in TMCSuperTech requires a lot of studying and preparation. My teammates and I dedicated a lot of time preparing for the competition, so it is an honor.
What does it take to be the best technically in this industry?
To be the best technically in this industry, you have to be willing to go the extra mile. I think that it is also beneficial to know what you are good at and what areas need more improvement. I spent additional time focusing on my areas of weakness and turning them into strengths. Going the extra mile and being aware of my strengths and weaknesses are also important to my day-to-day job. FedEx Freight helped prepare me for this moment.
How did you prepare?
At my job, I treat every task like it is a station I am working on at TMCSuperTech. I put a lot of effort into making sure that I understand the process of fixing something. When I prepared for the competition, I also spent extra time studying materials after work.
How can the trucking industry recruit more technicians like yourself?
The education system is a great source of talent for the industry. Having a greater presence in colleges and high schools would be mutually beneficial for the industry and students. In this field, there are plenty of opportunities and it is a very rewarding field. If you are willing to put in the work, you can have a very successful career as a technician.
What are your goals in the industry?
My primary goal in the industry is to make sure that the roads are as safe as possible for everyone. At FedEx Freight, our mantra is “Safety Above All.” It must always take precedence and I always keep it top of mind.
