Alliance Advantage 2nd Edition

ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE

{YouTube Feature}

Aakiki Jenkins *AKA* MR. F-L-A

10 TIPS

to maximize fuel

economy

Women of Stevens Transport CD, Inc.

TWO LADIES TRAILBLAZING THE INDUSTRY IN NEW WAYS

2ND

Edition

Contents Dream Team

2 Driver Spotlight

3 Military Spotlight

5 Women of Stevens Transport CD, Inc.

10 New Grad

12 Road Meals

13

-03

Meetthe

OpsTeam Laurin Smith Director of Operations - Stevens Transport CD, Inc. Laurin joined the Stevens Transport CD, Inc. team in July of 2019. As the Director of Operations for Stevens Transport CD, Inc., Laurin’s daily tasks include ensuring the Contractor drivers are performing to their full potential, while assisting the recruiters as they bring in the top talent to Stevens Transport CD, Inc. When we asked Laurin about what motivates her to her continued success, she responded:

Brad Turner Driver Manager Operations Lead · Joined Stevens: January 2013 · What he does: Manages a team of Driver Managers and solves the problems that are escalated or require extra attention · Advice for New Contractors: Communication is vital to your success.

We are here to help you succeed, and will do anything we can to help you reach your goals! · How to contact: EXT. 1431 or email bturner@stevenstransport.com

“I love our team. I really enjoy getting to know the drivers, including hearing their success stories and helping them become successful business owners. By helping grow Stevens Transport CD, Inc. daily, I know that the Stevens mission is completed.”

Laurin also passed along some sound advice for our drivers: “Listen to all of the advice and knowledge that everyone is going to pass along to you. Also, make sure to keep a constant flow of communication with your Driver Manager, as they are willing to help you succeed in any and all situations you may be in.”

Outside of work, Laurin enjoys spending time with her children, working out, and relaxing.

Tyler Waddles Driver Manager Operations Lead · Joined Stevens: September 2019 · What he does: Manage a team of Driver Managers, ensures each driver is being utilized, and each customer is being serviced to the highest potential! · Advice to New Contractors: Communicate with your Operations team at all times. The more information you can provide to your Driver Manager, the more successful your business will become! · How to contact: EXT. 1757 or email twaddles@stevenstransport.com

Alliance Advantage

STEVENS CONTRACTOR TEAM

LAJASMINE & COREY COX TEAMMATES ON AND OFF THE ROAD

C

orey and LaJasmine joined Stevens Transport, Inc. in November of 2014 and both graduated with their CDLs from Lonestar College in Houston, TX. Since joining Stevens Transport CD, Inc. in February of 2015, the team has acquired much success, and was even named Stevens’ Team of the Year in 2018. When we asked the team what they attribute their success to, LaJasmine said: “We credit everyone at Stevens, especially our Driver Manager Chase [Wallace] for everything they do for us every day. They keep us constantly rolling and we are forever grateful.”

"

Corey also passed along some sound advice for our new drivers:

Give everything time and have patience.

Also, be open to new information because you will not know everything right away.

"

Outside of work, the team enjoys fishing, working out, and spending time with their family.

Written By: Sidney Mireles

1. Lower your driving speed

Every MPH above 55 causes a 1% fuel performance loss and speeds in excess of 62 MPH increases that number to 1.3% fuel performance loss

2. Run in top gear 65% of the time or more

Running the truck in top gear as much as possible puts the transmission and engine in its optimal running range to maintain top speeds at lowest possible RPM

3. Turn on Load Based Speed Control (LBSC)

Load Based Speed Control senses how much load your engine is pulling and adjusts the engine rpm that are available, with the exception of the top two gears, to maximize the trucks pulling power when climbing hills

4. Decrease Idling Time

A truck that idles approximately 35% of time consumes an additional 50 gallons of fuel. At today’s prices that equates to $127 of wasted fuel. At 7 MPG for the truck, that same 50 gallons equates to 350 miles the driver gave up

5. Follow Proper Driving Habits

Over revving and under revving the truck’s motor can cost the driver as much as 3% of the fuel performance on the truck. Make sure you are using proper progressive shifting methods for the truck

6. Use Cruise Control When It Is Safe To Do So

Using cruise control under the right circumstances: daylight, flat roads and dry conditions, can increase fuel performance by as much as 4%. Avoid using cruise control in hilly conditions to avoid engine over revving and poor fuel performance

7. Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Tires that are under inflated by as little as 10 PSI can cause a 1% fuel performance drop for each tire that is under inflated.

In addition, under inflated tires causes uneven tire wear, which could lead to an alignment issue and an additional 3% fuel performance loss

8. Use Proper Trip Planning

Plan the trip and know the plan. With today’s current fuel prices each out of route mile costs adds additional expense of 46-cents per mile

9. Reduce Trailer Gap When Possible

Best practice is to scale the load and get weight properly distributed for legal operation. Once scaled, if you can move the fifth wheel forward to reduce the trailer gap, then do so to reduce wind resistance between the truck and the trailer

10. Regular Preventive Maintenance

Keeping up with routine maintenance items such as fuel and air filters will help in maintaining good fuel performance on the truck. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes and maintenance on the APU

DRIVER SPOTLIGHT

ELMEO "MOSES" FRANKLIN E

ver since he could remember, Moses Franklin has been enveloped in the transportation industry.

With his father driving for over 35 years, Moses was able to experience the life of a professional driver at an early age, and was excited to follow in his father’s footsteps when the opportunity presented itself.

After receiving his CDL from Tampa Truck Driving School in August of 2016, Moses researched many companies to see where he would continue his driving career, and was impressed with the many outstanding standards that Stevens held. “Stevens hit every check box that I had for my future company. Their family atmosphere truly drew me in, and their standards on safety and driver services were just the cherry on the top of the cake!”

After completing his orientation and over-the-road training with his trainer, Moses made the decision to join Stevens Transport CD, Inc. “I was initially drawn to the opportunity after learning that I would be able to be my own boss and run my own business. After hearing more about the opportunity, I made the decision to lease my first truck, and have enjoyed it ever since!”

Moses completed his first lease in October of 2018, and has plans to start his own fleet very soon! “I used my lease completion bonus to put a down payment on my very first truck, and my goal is to purchase four more for my fleet. I’m very thankful for the opportunities that Stevens has offered me, and know that my future path is bright because of Stevens!”

When Moses is not out on the road delivering loads, you can find him spending time with his children and waiting for the next time he is able to get back on the road!

Written By: Sidney Mireles

THREE -07

Truck Driver

E X E R C I S E S

A career as a professional driver can provide one with a wealth of exciting benefits and opportunities, but the long hours behind the wheel can make finding ways to stay healthy difficult. Thankfully, there are plenty of exercises for truck drivers that can not only improve their health and wellness, but promote productivity, and generally improve their life on the road. * Check out below three of the best exercises that can make a huge difference in a driver’s quality of life:

Cardio: Did you know that 32 laps around your truck are equal to a mile? This exercise not only promotes healthy cardio habits, but will also allow you to stretch your legs when you are no longer cooped up in your cab. We suggest trying out this exercise when waiting for your loads, or during one of your breaks!

Push-ups: This perfect truck driver exercise only requires minimal space, and uses the weight of one’s body. In addition to increasing one’s strength, pushups can also improve one’s posture and flexibility. We suggest trying out this exercise at the foot of your bunk before starting your travels!

Triceps Dips: This effective arm workout activates the triceps muscles in your upper arm. You can do them on the ground or by using the steps of your truck as support. Then bend your elbows to help lower your body and return to the starting position. We suggest trying out this exercise when you are parked in a lot with ample space! *Please consult your physican before beginning any exercise program.

Alliance Advantage

Written By Sidney Mireles

MILITARY SPOTLIGHT

STEVE HARRIS Steve Harris was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. After graduating from high school, he attended the Parris Island Boot Camp. Upon completion in 2002, Steve joined the United States Marine Corps, where he was deployed to Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, and received many awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation with 2 Stars, NATO Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 7 Stars.

After his deployments, Steve returned and wanted to pursue a profession that would allow him to travel the country, and realized the transportation industry would be the perfect fit. Soon after, Steve graduated with his CDL from Georgia Driving Academy in Columbus, GA and completed his orientation and over - the - road training at Stevens’ headquarters in Dallas, TX. He was exposed to Stevens Transport CD, Inc. during his training, and was intrigued by the idea of becoming his own boss. He signed a two - year lease in December of 2018, and was ready to tackle this new adventure head - on.

Since then, Steve has become a trainer, and was also named the 1st Runner - Up for the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award in December of 2019.

The award recognizes veterans, guard members and reservists who have made the successful transition in the trucking industry following military service. “I truly cherish all of the memories that I have made since joining the Stevens family,” Steve said.

Written By: Sidney Mireles

"

“I love that every day is a new adventure, and that I am also able to pass along all my knowledge about the industry to the next generation of drivers. Stevens has truly become my second home, and I could not picture myself ever leaving the industry!"

I love that every day is a new adventure, and that I am also able to pass along all my knowledge about the industry to the next generation of drivers...

2019 PAYO U T -09

$ 967,091 LEASE COMPLETION BONUSES

LEASE EQUIPEMENT FROM ALLIANCE TODAY CALL 844.296.8017 OR EMAIL CD@STEVENSTRANSPORTCD.COM Alliance Advantage

WOMEN OF THE CD

NIKETYA MATTHEWS Nikeyta had been delivering local mail to and from the post office, but was craving a profession that would allow her to explore every part of the country. Finding the transportation industry, she knew it would be the perfect fit. She graduated with her CDL from Tampa Truck Driving School in September of 2018 and was excited to begin her new profession at a wellestablished company!

Soon after arriving at Stevens, she was instantly attracted to the opportunity of operating her own business. After extensive research, Nikeyta signed her first lease in January of 2019 and has been loving it ever since. “Because of my profession, I have been able to see things that I would have only seen on my TV. I really loved seeing the Hollywood sign for the first time; it was breathtaking!”

Nikeyta has also been documenting all of her experiences from the road on her YouTube channel under the name OTR Diva. “I started my channel because I didn’t see many Stevens females uploading information about their journey at Stevens, and I wanted to be that voice. It makes me happy knowing that my videos are having a grand impact on other drivers, and I plan to continue uploading for as long as I’m here!"

DARLENE ARBOLANTE

Darlene always had a passion for the transportation industry and always saw herself driving a truck one day. But being a mother to three boys, she was not able to pursue this new challenge until her boys were grown up. When the opportunity presented itself, Darlene was ready to tackle it head-on.

“After much research, I knew that Stevens was the company for me. I not only received my CDL from Careers World Wide in Keenesburg, CO, but I also received a pamphlet that explained the opportunities that Stevens Transport CD, Inc. offered. After reading it over, there was no doubt in my mind that I would become an Independent Contractor!”

Darlene also took advantage of other opportunities presented to drivers at Stevens, including becoming a trainer to help teach other females to be the best driver they can be! “Being a trainer to me is being a small part of my trainee’s success. Being able to see them on the road solo alongside me is one of the greatest feelings one could experience!”

As for Darlene’s future in the transportation industry, she sees herself owning her own fleet of trucks and still inspiring the next generation of drivers. “I do not like sitting; I love being on the go and constantly moving.

I have found a profession that I truly enjoy and will not stop until all of my goals are complete!”

Written By: Sidney Mireles

-012

AAKIKI

JENKINS Aakiki Jenkins joined Stevens in September of 2018 after wanting to pursue his dream job. Aakiki graduated with his CDL from Tampa Truck Driving School in Tampa, FL and was excited to learn everything about the industry from Stevens’ superb training program. After completing his training, Aakiki was thrilled to explore the different opportunities that are presented to Stevens drivers, including becoming an Independent Contractor, a Trainer, and joining the Perdue Dedicated fleet.

Along with all of these opportunities, Aakiki has been documenting his journey through his YouTube channel under the name “Mr. F-L-A”. Aakiki’s goal with his videos is to show all sides of the industry while showing his favorite parts of his dream job.

“Before joining the industry, I watched many videos of drivers on YouTube, and knew that when I joined the industry, I would make my own videos,” Aakiki said. “Since then, I have created over 40 videos, and amassed over 7,200 views across all of those videos. I have also gotten the chance to meet and interact with all of my 230 subscribers both online and in-person, and knowing that I have made an impact with my videos is the reason I keep making them!”

Check out Aakiki’s YouTube channel today!

Written By: Sidney Mireles Alliance Advantage

$369,500 -013

REFERRAL BONUSES PAID OUT IN 2019

EARN EXTRA MONEY!

FOR MORE INFO EMAIL WILL BYRD AT WBYRD@STEVENSTRANSPORTCD.COM OR CALL 844.296.8017 Alliance Advantage

NEW GRAD

QUINTEN NOLDEN

Searching for a new career path, Quentin Nolden knew exactly where he would begin his new adventure. As a new graduate driver, he is excited to see what new opportunities lie ahead for him with Stevens Transport CD, Inc.!

What driving school did you attend?

I attended Stevens Driving Academy in Dallas, TX. Not only did I thoroughly enjoy the training that I received, but I also made friendships that I know will last a long time. I truly felt like a member of the Stevens family the first day I walked through the door, and knew I chose the right carrier to pursue my career with!

Describe your training experience at Stevens.

I had two trainers and appreciated all of the knowledge that they passed down to me. My trainers both taught me their style of driving, as well as different methods of backing techniques, so that combined with advice from other drivers helped me create my own style of driving, which has helped me become the successful driver that I am! I also met some of my mentors during my training who have been able to answer all of my questions and I truly consider them part of my family!

Why are you joining the Stevens Transport CD, Inc. team?

I have always wanted to operate my own business, and was excited to learn that Stevens offered me the opportunity to pursue that! I just completed the business classes, which were very insightful and helpful, and I know that I’m going to have a great support system both in the office and on the road during this new adventure!.

What are your future goals in the industry?

I would love to have my own fleet of trucks in about 5 years, and luckily Stevens, Alliance, and Stevens Transport CD, Inc. make that possible! Besides that, I really just want to be as successful as I can, and with the opportunities that Stevens offers their drivers, I know that it is possible!

What advice would you pass along to a new driver in the industry?

My number one piece of advice is to stay safe on the road, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. I also like to share my experiences and all of the knowledge I learn on my YouTube channel, under the name Quinten Trucker.

I enjoy helping all new drivers, and invite them to watch my videos if they need advice or a first-hand perspective in the life of a Stevens driver!

What do you enjoy doing when you’re on your home time?

I enjoy fishing, barbequeing, and spending time with my family.

ROAD MEALS

-015

OVER THE ROAD RECIPES

Just because you’re on the road, it does not mean you can’t eat like you’re at home. See some of our favorite slow cooker recipes that cook while you drive!

Once you stop for the night, dinner is served from the comfort of your sleeper.

BUFFALO WINGS Ingredients 3 lb chicken wingettes and drummettes 1 cup honey barbecue sauce 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce Lime wedges and sliced green onions, if desired

STEPS 1. Spray 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Place chicken in slow cooker. In small bowl, stir together barbecue sauce and Buffalo wing sauce.

Pour over chicken wings. Stir to coat.

■2. Cover; cook on Low heat setting 3 hours.

■3. Set oven control to broil. Spray broiler pan rack with cooking spray. Use slotted spoon or fork to place chicken on rack in pan.

Broil with tops of chicken 3 inches from heat 3 to 4 minutes or until browned, turning halfway through broiling time.

4. Serve with remaining sauce for dipping. Garnish with lime wedges and green onions.

POT ROAST Ingredients

CINNAMON STICKY BREAD Ingredients

2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix 1 1/4 cups water 5 1/2 pounds pot roast

2 cans Grands! Cinnamon Rolls 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted

STEPS 1. In a slow cooker, mix cream of mushroom soup, dry

STEPS 1. Open each can of cinnamon rolls. Reserve the icing. Cut each roll into 6 pieces.

2. Place the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a gallon-size Ziploc bag. Add the cut-up

onion soup mix and water.

cinnamon rolls (the pieces will fall apart a little) to the bag. Seal and shake to coat the

2. Place pot roast in slow cooker and coat with soup

pieces with cinnamon sugar.

mixture. Cover and cook on high setting for 3 to 4

3. Stir together the brown sugar and melted butter.

hours, or on Low setting for 8 to 9 hours.

4. Spray a 5-7 qt. slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Place half the dough pieces in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour half the melted butter mixture over the top, then add the rest of the cinnamon roll pieces and the rest of the melted butter.

5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high power for about 2 hours. (Check it at one hour, then again at one and a half hours, just to be safe.) The edges will start to brown, but the top will still be a little gooey looking. Turn off the slow cooker and let sit for 5

Alliance Advantage

minutes before serving.

STEVENS TRANSPORT CD, Inc.