Driver of the Year Finalist - James Farley

In the competitive world of trucking, where miles traveled and loads delivered are the ultimate measures of success, a story emerges that transcends the odometer readings and tire treads. James Farley, a dedicated trucker with a career spanning 29 years, has risen through the ranks to become a finalist for the prestigious Western Dairy Transport Driver of the Year award in 2023. His journey is not just about the roads he's traveled but about the lives he's touched and the values he upholds.

James, now 57, embarked on his trucking journey almost three decades ago. It was a career choice driven by a love for the open road, an unquenchable thirst for adventure, and the promise of an honest living. He hit the road with a sense of purpose and never looked back. In August 2019, James joined WDT. In a relatively short time, he has found himself among the finalists for the prestigious Driver of the Year award. This achievement is a testament to his dedication and deep respect for the company and its people. James has often emphasized that the true secret of his success is the supportive and cohesive team at WDT. He firmly believes that it's the people you work with that make all the difference in the world, and his experience at WDT has been nothing short of exceptional. In 2023, James also achieved the Gold Standard driver status at WDT, a recognition reserved for the best of the best. He has also consistently passed every DOT inspection, underscoring his unwavering commitment to safety and professionalism.

One of the remarkable aspects of James Farley's career is his role as a mentor within WDT. He generously shares his wealth of experience with new drivers, helping them transition smoothly into the WDT way of doing things. He's known for his willingness to lend a hand, even taking calls at odd hours to assist those in need. His support extends beyond mere advice; he once went the extra mile to help a female driver with 5th wheel issues, demonstrating his commitment to fostering a safe and supportive work environment.

While James has dedicated a significant portion of his life to trucking, he is quick to point out that family remains his top priority. He spends his spare time with his loving wife and grandson, who look up to him as a role model. Before trucking, James served in the Marine Corps, where he learned the values of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork, all of which have been integral to his success as a trucker.

In his own words, James equates winning the Driver of the Year award to winning the NASCAR championship. To him, it's the highest honor a trucker can achieve, and it symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. His favorite quote, "good drivers pull over, bad drivers roll over," serves as a guiding principle in his journey. From his beginnings as a Marine Corps veteran to his role as a mentor, his love for family, and his commitment to safety and professionalism, he is a shining example of what it means to be a Driver of the Year finalist at Western Dairy Transport. Congratulations, James!