That’s when he was introduced to the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program: a military transition assistance program, helping service members gain real-world experience in the civilian workforce before transitioning to a civilian job.

What is the SkillBridge Military Transition Program?

The DOD SkillBridge military transition program offers active-duty service members hands-on career training during their final 180 days of service. It’s designed to ease the transition from military to civilian life by providing:

• Real-world, civilian work experience
• SkillBridge job opportunities that align with your skills and interests
• Paid job training
• Networking opportunities for transitioning service members
• Clarity on “what’s next” after your service
• Higher earning potential from the start
• Career development opportunities with top companies that participate in the SkillBridge program

SkillBridge Program Opportunities with U.S. Xpress

Christina Gindi leads the team at U.S. Xpress that oversees military transition programs like SkillBridge. She works closely with transitioning service members to understand their benefits, career goals, and background to connect them with the right opportunities within the company, kind of like a matchmaker would.

Christina and her team receive more than a dozen SkillBridge program inquiries each month from transitioning service members, figuring out their next steps after service. Her goal is to support candidates through their military transition and give them someone to go to when, inevitably, questions come up. “Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions,” Christina advises. “Get the information you need to make the best choice for yourself and your family.”

Christina’s team finds that transitioning military members bring discipline, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to go above and beyond for the job. They ask smart questions, stay curious, and are committed to doing things the right way. Traits like these make transitioning military members standout contributors business-wide.

What Transitioning Service Members Bring to the Workforce

SkillBridge graduate Nathaniel Creech gained valuable interpersonal, organizational, and computer skills, during his time in the Navy. Those skills helped him get into a full-time position after graduation, doing something he loves. “U.S. Xpress was one of the first companies to respond to my resume,” Creech said. “The process was so effortless on my end, thanks to the constant communication from Christina. My questions were answered quickly, and she stayed engaged with me, all the way up to my first day. That kind of support made it clear that U.S. Xpress was the right fit for me.”

Creech joined the team in Dallas and was immediately welcomed. Though he had never stepped inside a commercial motor vehicle before, he quickly learned how to perform inspections, understand the importance of tandem positioning, and even experienced firsthand the dangers of distracted driving—via a driving simulator, of course.

“Not many service members can say they feel this grounded just two months before separation,” he shared. “I’ve found a new sense of belonging and purpose here. I already feel like I have a home outside of the Navy.”

He has brought tremendous value to the Dallas Orientation team and credits his military service with teaching him the skills needed to succeed in civilian life. He loves sharing his experience with SkillBridge and encourages other active-duty service members to take advantage of the opportunity. “If you have family or friends getting ready for military transition, I highly recommend looking into the SkillBridge Program with U.S. Xpress. It’s a unique and extremely valuable experience you won’t get anywhere else,” said Creech.

Nathaniel Creech officially separates from the Navy in late June but is already making a meaningful impact at U.S. Xpress. For him, and many others, SkillBridge is more than just a transition. It’s a launchpad.

To learn more about SkillBridge benefits and the best jobs for transitioning service members at U.S. Xpress, contact us today.

For nearly 31 years, Tammy Roszell has been a dedicated part of U.S. Xpress, playing a vital role in supporting drivers throughout their careers. Over the years, she’s seen many people come and go, but her favorite part of the job is helping drivers succeed through training.

Tammy began her journey at U.S. Xpress as a Training Coordinator, where she quickly discovered her passion for advocating for drivers and ensuring they had the support they needed. Now, in her current role as Professional Driver Onboarding Program (PDOP) Advisor, she works closely with our driver trainers, recruiting experienced drivers to join our training program and pass on their knowledge to the next generation.

Drivers trust Tammy because they know she always has their best interests at heart. She’s their go-to person for managing personality differences and resolving conflicts on the road. “Sometimes hard conversations need to happen. I try to limit conflict by fostering a culture of respect and empathy. We have a lot of different personalities here, and my job is to help manage them well. It all starts with respect,” said Roszell.

Since the program’s relaunch in April 2023, Tammy has played a significant role in its expansion. Currently, there are 365 Driver Trainers at U.S. Xpress, and she has her sights set on growing that number to 400 by the end of the year. The Professional Driver Onboarding Program is a crucial part of both U.S. Xpress and the trucking industry as a whole. Trainers pass along their hard-earned knowledge, helping new drivers develop the skills they need to be successful on the road—a responsibility that is no small task.

“Many times, I’m talking to someone who is finally achieving their lifelong dream of becoming a driver. It’s pretty amazing to be part of that journey,” Tammy shared. She makes it a priority to ensure new drivers feel supported from day one. Her goal is to provide U.S. Xpress drivers with a solid foundation as they begin their careers.

The impact of our driver training program is undeniable. In 2023 alone, 1,800 drivers completed the Professional Driver Onboarding Program (PDOP) thanks to the dedication of our trainers. Many of these drivers choose to stay with U.S. Xpress and eventually become trainers themselves. Our program consistently produces high-quality drivers whose commitment to safety, service, and professionalism makes them highly sought after in the industry.

Becoming a driver trainer is a way to really leave a mark for many of our trainers. There is pride in the program, and the willingness of our trainers to take this on is what sets them apart. They essentially invite a stranger into their “home on the road” for weeks at a time, guiding them through the early days of their driving career. It requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to teach effectively. Leading with empathy and understanding creates a supportive culture that not only helps students succeed but also keeps experienced drivers with U.S. Xpress.

Today, Tammy works out of our Tunnel Hill, GA facility, where she’s focused on recruiting the next generation of trainers. She enjoys talking with drivers about life on the road, mentoring new training recruiters, and finding the best trainers to shape the future of U.S. Xpress. More than anything, she loves the challenge each day brings and the opportunity to help build the strongest team of drivers on the road.

The transition from military to civilian life can be daunting. For many veterans, the path to a fulfilling career post-service requires a bit of guidance and preparation. The SkillBridge Internship Program offers an invaluable opportunity for military members to make this transition smoothly, all while retaining their income and benefits. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, the program provides a unique bridge from military life to a successful civilian career.

Matthew Mata, a Marine Corps veteran, is currently participating in the SkillBridge program at U.S. Xpress. We asked him to share a little bit about how the SkillBridge program has helped him prepare for life outside the military.

What is the SkillBridge Program?

For those unfamiliar with the SkillBridge Program, Matthew explains it simply: “It’s an opportunity for any Marine to begin transitioning through on-the-job training and coursework while maintaining your current income.”

Essentially, SkillBridge connects service members with civilian companies, allowing them to work in internships that align with their career interests. The best part? Service members continue to receive their military pay and benefits throughout the internship, making it easier to focus on gaining valuable skills for the future.

What kind of work is Matthew doing at U.S. Xpress?

As a Supervisor II on our Dedicated team, Matthew’s responsibilities include tracking the performance of truck drivers, ensuring their safety on the road, and helping mentor new employees. He is deeply involved in the operational side of logistics, managing tasks such as:

• Tracking and managing load plans assigned to tractors
• Monitoring driver behavior through LYTX (a telematics and safety system)
• Coaching drivers on safety and performance
• Verifying freight delivery to the correct facilities
• Preparing new drivers for success by helping them understand the safety protocols and other key operational procedures

“There are plenty of similarities to our daily workflow,” he says. “Mentoring new drivers and counseling employees on their practices mirrors the leadership and coaching skills I developed in the Marine Corps.”

How has the transition to civilian life been?

One of the most significant benefits of the SkillBridge program is its ability to ease the transition to civilian life. Matthew notes that U.S. Xpress has been flexible in allowing him to handle personal matters, such as Veteran Affairs appointments and other transition-related tasks, while still advancing his career.

“The flexibility at U.S. Xpress has allowed me to manage my personal affairs without missing a beat at work,” he explains. “Weekly meetings with the Director of Operations allow me to communicate directly about any concerns or challenges I’m facing, which has been incredibly helpful in navigating my transition.”

The balance between professional development and personal transition is key in making the adjustment smoother, and the mentorship and support at U.S. Xpress have been instrumental in this process.

Would Matthew recommend the SkillBridge Program?

 “Definitely! I already have,” he says. “I’m still on the lookout for fellow Marines on social media who are looking for a challenging new career. The SkillBridge program offers a real opportunity to start a civilian career while still getting the support and benefits of military service.”

For veterans looking to enter the workforce, SkillBridge provides a crucial stepping stone, and Matthew encourages anyone considering it to take the leap.

SkillBridge is just one of the many offerings at U.S. Xpress to support our veterans. Contact Nina Gindi (cgindi@usxpress.com) for more information about our SkillBridge Program. Visit the U.S. Xpress website to learn more about our corporate or driver veteran programs. 

More about Katie Dyson, Senior Brand Manager

Katie is a dynamic communicator dedicated to meeting people where they’re at. With a diverse background in corporate communications, marketing, and graphic design, her career spans a range of industries, including automotive manufacturing, paperboard packaging, insurance, and trucking. Outside of her professional work, Katie enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, playing sports, and traveling.

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn.

Veterans bring a unique sense of duty to any workplace. Their tenacity, problem-solving, and courage are just a few things that set veterans apart from their peers in the workplace.

The transportation industry is a safe space for veterans who want to transition their skills from active-duty to a civilian career. We welcome veterans to our team at U.S. Xpress and we offer many avenues for support and recognition.

Veterans and Supporters Employee Resource Group

At U.S. Xpress, we value all our team members, but we know there’s a special bond that forms for veterans based on shared experiences and sacrifices. The Veterans and Supporters Employee Resource Group is an employee-led group that connects and supports veterans at U.S. Xpress. This group fosters a community where their invaluable contributions are celebrated and supported.

Military fleet

Our fleet of military trucks are driven by veterans, featuring representatives from each military branch. This fleet honors their commitment to service and celebrates the contributions they make on the road and beyond.

Skillbridge program

Skillbridge partners with the Department of Defense to offer real-world job experience to active-duty service members through training and internships. This program may offer a transition for service members through the last 180 days of their military contract.

Military apprenticeship program

This partnership between the VA and U.S. Xpress allows veteran drivers and shop team members to use their GI benefits to receive additional pay directly from the VA on top of their company pay for on-the-job training.

Advanced rate of pay for veteran drivers

If you’re a veteran driver who holds a CDL and less than two years of driving experience, this program is for you. Our advanced rate of pay offers you the same rate as a driver with two years of experience, so you can make up to $70,000 in your first year. Plus, we’ll reimburse you up to $7,000 to cover your CDL school tuition, even if you used your Post-9/11 GI Bill^® to pay for it.

Click here to learn more about our Veteran programs.

Ready to take on the road with U.S. Xpress? Click here to fill out an application today or call a recruiter to see if you qualify.

More about Michael Paul, Vice President of Talent Management

Michael Paul has over 12 years of experience in the trucking industry, beginning his career at U.S. Xpress in Operations and Load Planning. Before entering the trucking world, Michael served eight years as a Marine, completing two tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom. A dedicated family man, he enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife and three-year-old daughter, as well as his passions for muscle cars and competitive shooting sports. Michael’s blend of military discipline and industry expertise makes him a valued leader in logistics.

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

Our Senior Vice President of Information Technology gained a new perspective after a ride along with a U.S. Xpress driver.

Technology teams exist for more than just the typical tech support function. In trucking, it’s our responsibility to make sure the driver experience is as seamless as possible, from pickup to delivery. We build applications that connect customer requests to drivers, trucks, and trailers to ensure safe and timely delivery of shipments.

I recently joined OTR Driver Russel Goins to get a closer look at the challenges our drivers face every day. The better we understand their challenges, the more we can support them.

Here are some things I learned.

The truck is a driver’s home.

My eyes were opened when I first stepped on his truck. He offered me a Pepsi from his fridge and showed me where to find food if I wanted a snack. I quickly realized this isn’t just his workplace, this is his home when he’s on the road for U.S. Xpress. Before we even hit the road, that made me rethink the things we offer our drivers. They need the tools to make them effective while they’re on the clock, and amenities to help them relax when they’re off-duty.

There’s a big opportunity for active driving alerts.

It’s common for drivers to find out about traffic or inclement weather when they become visible. Trucking maps are made to route drivers through roadways that can accommodate big rigs, not for sharing traffic delays. We’re looking for ways to provide traffic and severe weather updates on our truck tablets to alert drivers (and their supervisors) of a potential risk or delay.

Roadways change frequently.

When we got close to the delivery location, Russel turned the wrong way…according to the GPS. He has delivered to this location before and knew the correct route to get to the facility’s entrance. It turns out his mapping application needed to be updated with current maps. We’ve taken this as an action item to push regular updates to the GPS functionality on all our truck tablets so drivers can rely on their navigation system to find their destination on truck-safe roads.

Electronic processes at receivers are ideal. When we arrived at the drop-off location, there was a line at the guard shack for drivers to manually enter the details of their loads for the bill of lading. We’re working to partner with customers to automate this process through electronic BOLs and notifications when drivers cross a geo-fence around their locations. This would be a huge win for drivers to get in and out, and back on the road.

The biggest lesson I learned through this experience is this: if we do our job to make the lives of drivers efficient, effective, and safe, we’ll all be better off for it.

Thanks to all the drivers who keep us rolling.

Frankie Clement, Senior Vice President of Information Technology

Transcontinental shipping started in 1912 when it took 91 days for drivers to get a load from Pennsylvania to California. Over the years, fifth-wheel trailers, air-filled tires, expanded infrastructure, hours of service, e-commerce, and more would evolve trucking into the industry we know today.  

While these things are all necessary to move freight, we know drivers are the most valuable asset to the transportation industry. From food to automobiles, technology to disaster relief, and everything in between, drivers are essential to helping us meet our basic needs.

Driver Appreciation Week started as a way to give drivers the credit they deserve in the customer centric industry. As a profession, driving requires more sacrifices and strategy than the average career, including isolation, time away from loved ones, obstacles on the road, weather, customer pressure, maintaining equipment, and more.

Here are five practical ways we show drivers our appreciation throughout the year — and you can too!

1. Celebrate big wins. Whether it’s a Million Miler achievement, birthday, anniversary, a child’s graduation, or a new addition to the family, their wins are our wins. We always look for reasons to celebrate accomplishments through events, meals, physical gifts, and sometimes, special parking places.
2. Make Driver Appreciation Week a priority. This is just a single week out of the year, and we like to do it BIG by hosting events and giving gifts at each of our terminals throughout the week.
3. Touch base every day. Isolation can be hard, so our Operations team makes it a priority to reach out to each driver every day to check in, listen to their needs, and provide guidance where possible.
4. Performance gets paid. We have performance incentive programs that reward drivers who excel in safety and productivity, among other criteria.
5. Take care of co-pilots. Show some love to the four-legged companions who put in long hours on the road. We have turf dog areas at each of our terminals so dogs can stretch their legs and get some energy out.

We’re all grateful it doesn’t take our order 91 days to arrive — and a big part of that is thanks to the drivers who work hard to keep our country rolling.

Let’s do our part to pamper those who help us meet our basic needs.

Thanks, Drivers!

Do your part to make America’s roadways safer, one brake check at a time.

We all know a child with a need for speed. They want to go fast, floor it every time they’re in a car, “shake and bake.” The gas pedal is the magic wand that makes their dreams come true.

But in the world of trucking, we know that brakes are even more important than the thing that makes the truck go “vroom.” While the gas pedal is a child’s adrenaline, brakes are the safety net that offers them a tomorrow.

Brake Safety Week, Aug. 25-31, is an annual campaign hosted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. It’s a time to reiterate the importance of checking your brakes before hitting the road. Law enforcement will be hyper-focused on the condition of brake linings and pads.

“Brake related violations make up a large percentage of all out-of-service vehicle violations cited during roadside inspections,” said Ian Sanford, director of safety analytics and improvements at U.S. Xpress. “Don’t be part of that statistic.”

Here are some things you can do to ensure your brakes are road-ready before you get behind the wheel.

1. Visually check your brakes. Locate your disc or drum brakes and look for signs of wear, loose equipment, or missing hardware. Contact your supervisor if you see anything that needs to be addressed.
2. Pay attention to the lights on your dash. If an inspector sees an anti-lock brake system (ABS) indicator light on your dashboard, that’s an immediate citation. Make sure you get that checked out before you hit the road.
3. Listen for leaks. Take a lap around your rig and listen for air escaping the truck. That could be an indicator of air or hydraulic leaking from your equipment.
4. Always do a pre-trip inspection. This will help identify any component, brakes and beyond, that may need attention prior to leaving your lot.

Let’s all do our part to make America’s roadways safer every day.

Have a safe and successful Brake Safety Week, drivers.

More about Katie Dyson, Senior Brand Manager

Katie is a dynamic communicator dedicated to meeting people where they’re at. With a diverse background in corporate communications, marketing, and graphic design, her career spans a range of industries, including automotive manufacturing, paperboard packaging, insurance, and trucking. Outside of her professional work, Katie enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, playing sports, and traveling.

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn.

Lucretia Richard was a new CDL holder looking for a place to launch her career when she posted on a Facebook group for professional drivers. Debra Gates, who has been over-the-road for U.S. Xpress for more than five years, replied to Lucretia’s comment.

“I knew from the moment she reached out and the way she kept in touch with me and followed up that she really wanted to help me,” Lucretia said.

Now Debra is Lucretia’s career coach, and the new driver’s time at the wheel is off to a strong start. The day Lucretia was seated, Debra handed her the keys and Lucretia drove the big rig for five hours, from Olive Branch, Mississippi, to the Georgia line.

Lucretia is excited about her new career, but nervous about some aspects of the work — backing and hooking and unhooking trailers in particular. But Debra has her back.

“I will teach it all,” Debra said. “Anything she’ll need out there we’re going to cover it and make sure she’s ready.”

Lucretia will work with Debra on developing her skills for about 175 hours of driving instruction, which means lots of time together on the road.

“We have a coach/student relationship, but you’re living in my house for a month,” Debra said. “So this is a friendship, and I will have your back no matter what.”

Lucretia earned her CDL in November 2022, but struggled to find a job. Some companies required experience, and she didn’t have any. Others weren’t hiring out of Louisiana, where she’s based. Others had training programs, but there was a long wait for a female trainer. When Lucretia heard from Debra, she was eager to get rolling. She applied to our team, and told them Debra had sent her. Not long after that, Lucretia was bound for orientation in Dallas.

Debra has been driving for more than five years, all of that time for U.S. Xpress. Lucretia is the 11^th student driver she has trained in those years, but she wasn’t an easy sell on the idea of working as a career coach at first.

“My fleet owner and my manager said I needed to train, and I said I don’t have the patience,” Debra said.

But she decided to give it a try, and the rest is history. You need a combination of patience and high standards to be a career coach, Debra said.

“You have to be patient, but you also have to be a stickler for doing things the right way,” Debra said.

Career coaches play an essential role in training new drivers at U.S. Xpress, and we’re proud to have the best professional drivers on the road helping the next generation of truckers get their careers rolling. Learn more here.