A safe driving record lasting over three decades continues to pay off for Greg Swift.
The Schneider National driver joined an exclusive group with the carrier, becoming only its third driver to reach 5 million miles without a preventable accident. Swift’s driving safety achievement earned him a $10,000 bonus and a parade with a “Sound the Horn” celebration at the company’s Wisconsin headquarters earlier this month.
“Reaching five million miles seemed unimaginable,” said Swift, a 33-year Schneider employee. “It’s an immense honor to be recognized and to be part of a company that equips us to succeed. Safety is the key to long-term success.”
Schneider National said throughout its history, it has employed more than 6,500 drivers that have achieved at least 1 million safe driving miles. The company’s two other 5 million safe mile drivers were George “Sonny” Wagner, who died in 2017 after retiring in 2002 and Bob Wyatt, who died follow a brief illness in 2019, according to a company spokesperson.
Driving 5 million safe miles is no easy feat. The distance is equivalent of driving to the moon and back 10 times.
Swift was a teacher before leaving that profession to become a trucker. He currently drives a dedicated route for longtime Schneider customer Georgia-Pacific.
President and CEO Mark Rourke said drivers who prioritize safety and excellence leave a legacy for others to follow.
“We are in the service business, and professional drivers like Greg are the foundation of our success,” Rourke said.
Technology advancements have aided Swift’s journey to 5 million safe driving miles. GPS and collision mitigation systems are among a driver’s safety resources.
“I think the five million miles has done more than just boost my career,” Swift said. “It’s taken my home life, financial life and overall well being to new levels.”
