Your Story Matters

Yes… I work in trucking now, as the Director of Communications for the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association, but I’ve lived a few different lives before. I went to college for musical theatre. My time working for a non-profit theatre company in Chicago gave me a scrappy, can-do attitude that has served me well in any problem-solving situation I’ve encountered since. I also learned about the magic of storytelling and how important it is to hear perspectives from people different than you. From there, I broke into the world of TV news telling stories based on the struggles and achievements of real people in Central PA.

Even now, I’m looking for a good story everywhere I go.

Working in the trucking industry, we all play a unique role in impacting America. In 2022, trucks moved 81 percent of the nation’s freight including all the U.S.’s top ten commodities in both weight and value.

But here’s the thing… most Americans don’t understand how truly reliant on trucks our economy is, nor do they realize the burdens most trucking companies and drivers are facing.

This March, I want to challenge every person reading this column to tell a story. You can send it to me, [email protected], tell a friend or family member, post it on social media or just write it down and save it for later.

Talking about how you made the decision to become a truck driver could inspire a young person to find CDL schools in their area. Talking about how you’ve personally been impacted by a lack of truck parking might fall upon someone who can help with your city’s zoning restrictions. Talking about searching for a job might connect you to someone with an open position.

When it comes to the work we do at PMTA, your personal stories are what engage the public and encourage lawmakers to enact change.

I’ve seen it firsthand. Lawmakers trying to pass a bill prohibiting independent contractors back down when they see how many owners of small companies come forward to talk about losing their livelihood.

Putting a face and name to an issue goes a long way.

Speak up. Take advantage of opportunities to talk to political leaders. Did something newsworthy happen to you? Call it into your local paper or TV station. The squeaky wheel gets the grease.

Your story matters.