Driver James Gade Retires After 17 Years - Congratulations James!

on Friday, October 2, 2020 in Awards & Recognition

Professional driver, James Gade, has officially hung up his keys for the last time. James has been with TMC Transportation for 17 years, and has over two million miles of safe driving.

James began his career as a driver in 1971. He worked at a company moving mobile homes, and had to quickly learn the tricks of the trucking trade. He tells us that “one day, the driver was gone… my boss threw me the keys and said ‘move it’, so I figured out how to drive it.” James also worked hauling groceries, where forklift work was common.

Through the years, James realized that this kind of ‘easy work’ wasn’t his style. Soon thereafter, TMC Transportation captured James’ interest. “I wanted to do flatbed and I liked the trucks,” he recalls. Once a part of the Black & Chrome family, he jumped at the chance to move to the boat division. Boats ended up being one of his favorite loads to haul, and he devoted 11 years to the position.

Through his time with TMC, James explains that he will miss the people he has met. His Fleet Manager, Clynt Coburn, says, “It has been a pleasure to work with James over the years! We wish him the best in his retirement!” James also mentions that he will miss the travelling TMC offered him, especially “going through Hell”… Hell’s Canyon, that is! This canyon is ten miles wide and sits along the border of Eastern Oregon in the Pacific Northwest. Several different islands and British Columbia are on his list of favorite places to travel as well.

As James delivers his last load, he mentions that he looks forward to keeping busy during retirement. He has no big plans, besides spending lots of time with his friends and family.

We are grateful for your time and commitment to TMC, James. Thank you for everything you have done to keep America moving. Enjoy!