In Texas, we call things as we see them. Trucking is more than a job; it’s the backbone of America, powered by hardworking men and women.
David Schnautz
Vice President, Clark Freight Lines, Inc.; Board President, American Truck Historical Society (ATHS)
I’ve always been a straight shooter, so let me be clear: The backbone of the American economy doesn’t begin and end with Wall Street or Silicon Valley. It’s the men and women driving trucks down our highways every day.
I grew up in trucking. My grandpa, dad, and uncles all drove, and I started out as an owner-operator back in 1986 with a 1980 R Model Mack. That old Mack taught me quickly what it takes to keep freight moving — long hours, tough roads, and a lot of grit.
Nearly everything we touch in daily life spends part of its journey on a truck. Drivers get it there through storms, traffic, and long stretches of highway that test anyone’s endurance. Most folks never think twice about how those products ended up in their hands. I do, because I know the work, discipline, and sacrifice it took to deliver them, making sure businesses meet their commitments, and life carries on without interruption.
The men and women behind the trucking industry
At Clark Freight Lines, our drivers are at the heart of everything we do. Many of our drivers are second generation, following in the footsteps of parents who drove before them. We also see brothers, cousins, and whole families choosing to work here together. When good drivers come to Clark, they stay. That shows there’s a real future in this profession.
However, trucking isn’t just about the drivers. Dispatchers keep freight moving and solve logistical challenges on the fly. Mechanics work tirelessly to keep equipment safe and reliable. Office staff handle the details that make the whole operation possible. Every role is crucial, and every person matters.
Truckers and their teams don’t just keep businesses running; they keep communities alive. In times of crisis, they’re the ones making sure shelves are stocked and supplies reach the people who need them most. This past July, when flooding struck Central Texas, our drivers proudly delivered much-needed donations to neighbors in need.
Respecting our truckers
To me, trucking is more than a job; it’s a way of life. That’s one reason I’m involved with the American Truck Historical Society. Preserving trucking’s history is another way of honoring those who built this industry and making sure future generations understand all that goes into keeping America moving.
So, the next time you see a truck roll by, remember this: Behind that wheel, and behind the scenes, is a team of hardworking men and women carrying the weight of the economy on their shoulders. Everyone who plays a part in it deserves recognition. They may not ask for applause, but they’ve more than earned our respect.
