As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re reminded of the people who make this season—and every season—run smoothly. At Marten, that gratitude begins with our drivers. The long hours, the miles, the commitment to safety, the sacrifices made away from home—these actions fuel our success, our customers’ success, and the communities that rely on timely deliveries during the holidays.
To celebrate this season of thanks, we asked members of our dispatch team to share stories about the drivers they work with every day. Their messages tell the tale clearly: Marten drivers are exceptional.
“Drivers are the backbone of this company.” – Chad A. Christie
Now in his 15th year with Marten, Chad says the best part of his job has always been the drivers themselves.
“I’ve always enjoyed building relationships and learning from them. Fifteen years ago, I had zero transportation experience—our drivers taught me what life is really like on the road.”
One of his favorite memories? Presenting Million Mile Safe Driving Awards.
“If being on the road for one or two million miles and doing it safely isn’t above and beyond, I don’t know what is. It’s amazing to play even a small part in honoring their professionalism.”
Chad’s message of thanks:
“Your hard work keeps this country moving. Through long hours and unpredictable weather, you deliver safely and professionally. Your sacrifices don’t go unnoticed.”
“Their teamwork was incredible.” – Ryan E. Cooper
Ryan has spent sixteen years supporting drivers as they grow their careers—and their dedication still impresses him.
Recently, he watched three drivers work together to keep freight moving in a challenging situation. One driver in Weed, CA, waited hours to relay a load, ensuring it could continue to Rice Hill, OR, for a third driver to finish.
“All three loads arrived on time. Their teamwork was incredible.”
Ryan especially enjoys recognizing his Million Mile and Driver Mentor drivers with bomber jackets:
“It’s an honor to present those awards.”
His message of gratitude:
“We are most thankful for your commitment to safety and premier service. You are truly the top of the field, and it is our pride that you drive with us.”
“They show up and perform an extremely difficult job.” – Blake E. Baty
In his ten years with Marten, Blake says the trust between operations and drivers is what stands out most.
“Our drivers work hard to execute the plans we put in place—maximizing their miles and getting them home to spend time with their families.”
One story he’ll never forget: a driver who prevented a trailer from being stolen by noticing something was off, calling dispatch, and confronting the unauthorized individual.
“Her quick thinking protected our equipment and our freight.”
Another highlight was watching a driver he once managed grow from struggling early on to becoming one of the hardest-working, award-winning drivers on his board.
“I consider him a friend for life.”
Blake’s message of thanks:
“Thank you for showing up every day and doing a difficult job in the safest way possible. Your work ethic is unmatched.”
“They move Marten forward.” – Clint E. Talley
Clint has spent twelve years at Marten and says the most meaningful part of his job is getting to know drivers personally and helping them achieve their goals.
A recent example of a driver going above and beyond happened when last-minute trailers needed to be spotted over the weekend.
“He had just delivered and was heading home. We called, explained the situation, and he enthusiastically said, ‘Yes!’”
His favorite memory goes back to his early career—coordinating an overnight load of crawfish from Louisiana to Nashville.
“If it didn’t arrive in time, 22,000 people wouldn’t have crawfish. I worked with our best driver to create a plan. The next morning, it was sitting in Nashville. A cool moment.”
Clint’s message of thanks:
“Thank you for everything you do. Your focus on safety and commitment to moving Marten forward will help us come out of this freight recession stronger than ever.”
A Season for Gratitude
Across every story, a few themes are consistent:
Sacrifice—time away from home, long hours, and unpredictable conditions.
Teamwork—drivers stepping up for each other, customers, and operations.
Professionalism—delivering safely, consistently, and with pride.
During the holidays, these efforts matter more than ever. Increased traffic, tighter schedules, and winter weather make the season challenging, yet Marten drivers continue to deliver so families across the country can celebrate with full tables and full shelves.
To every Marten driver: thank you. Your dedication keeps our customers moving, supports our communities, and makes Marten stronger every day.
We are grateful—this season and every season—to have the very best behind the wheel.
