TMAF Interviews Robert “Newt” Newsome, driver for Cox Petroleum Transport and 2022–2023 NTTC Driver of the Year Finalist

Robert “Newt” Newsome is a tank truck driver for Cox Petroleum Transport with over 26 years of industry experience and two million accident-free miles. As one of eight finalists for the 2023 NTTC Champion award, Newt says he can’t think of anything greater than being in the running for the award. “Being with the rest of the finalists and being a finalist myself has been such a great experience. It’s such a prestigious honor, and it’s the apex of my career. I’m so excited to be able to take this back to my team because without them I wouldn’t be able to do this and have all these accident-free miles. It’s a way to be able to say thank you and share this accomplishment with them.”

As a tank truck driver, Newt spends his days hauling diesel, petroleum, and other products to help keep America fueled. He says that safety starts with getting a good night’s sleep. He also takes plenty of time before his shift to run through his precheck routine and plan out his route. “Proper rest and planning help me eliminate unnecessary distractions on the road. Knowing my exact route helps me stay focused and get to where I need to go safely and on time.”

Newt says he most enjoys making his customers happy. “I really enjoy seeing the smiles on my customers’ faces when I walk in the door and when they hear about the product they just received.” He also says that just being able to drive a tank truck is an awesome experience. “It just brings its own since of appreciation and nostalgia with it, and I love it when people come up to me at gas stations and rest stops to ask for a picture with me and my rig!”

Newt thinks that promotion is one of the best ways for the industry to attract new drivers. “It’s good to have truckers and members of the industry go out and recruit. Conversations with potential drivers are important, because trucking is both a career and a lifestyle, and not everyone understands that about the industry.”

“Stay focused and don’t give up” is the advice Newt offers to future tank truck drivers. “It can be intimidating when you first start out in the industry, but as long as you stay safe and keep trying, you’ll prosper.”

In his free time, Newt enjoys auto-mechanics and spending time teaching his grandkids life skills.