In the trucking industry, success is about more than just miles on the odometer. For Zac Elsts, CEO of HandledNow, it’s about creating a sustainable career rooted in mentorship, personal growth, and respect. Zac has spent the last decade transforming how drivers are supported, both on and off the road. Whether you’re a new CDL holder or a seasoned pro looking to level up, knowing what it takes to stay in trucking is the difference between burning out and building something long-term.
Why Mentorship Matters for New Truck Drivers
Zac’s first piece of advice for those entering the trucking world is simple but powerful: find a mentor. Getting started in this industry is a big shift, and having someone experienced to lean on can shorten your learning curve dramatically.
Zac’s own business journey didn’t come with a road map. It was the guidance of mentors that helped him find his way. For truck drivers, mentorship goes beyond learning to shift gears. It’s about navigating the lifestyle, the regulations, and the mindset it takes to thrive.
Want to connect with driver mentors or learn about support systems? Check out our driver staffing solutions to get matched with opportunities that value growth and community.
Staying Ahead in a Changing Trucking Industry
The trucking industry is always evolving. In the last decade alone, we’ve seen major shifts: electronic logging devices (ELDs), stricter safety regulations, and rapid tech advancements.
To stay in trucking long term, Zac says drivers need to do more than keep up, they need to get ahead. That means:
- Keeping a clean driving record
- Embracing new tech tools and safety features
- Staying informed on industry regulations (Pro tip: Bookmark the FMCSA website)
- Getting certifications or endorsements that give you a competitive edge
Zac also recommends thinking like a business owner, even if you’re behind the wheel of someone else’s truck. Adopt a growth mindset. Ask questions. Look for ways to add value, not just show up.
The Road to Business Ownership in Trucking
One of the most exciting opportunities in trucking is the potential to go from employee to entrepreneur. Zac’s own journey, from staffing leadership to business owner, shows what’s possible when you blend ambition with strategy.
Interested in becoming an owner-operator? Here’s what Zac suggests:
- Start by understanding your numbers: credit, savings, fuel costs, maintenance, and taxes
- Build relationships with reliable dispatchers and brokers
- Partner with someone who complements your strengths (especially if you’re not great at budgeting or planning)
- Talk to others who’ve done it. Ask what they wish they’d known
- Don’t skip the business planning phase
Zac’s motto: “Dream big, but start grounded.”
Want to know if entrepreneurship is right for you? Our podcast dives into this more: tune in to the full episode here.
Creating a Culture of Respect for Drivers
Let’s be honest: trucking isn’t always a glamorous job. Long hours, time away from family, and, too often, a serious lack of appreciation.
Zac’s working hard to change that narrative. His mission? Build a culture where drivers are respected as professionals and partners in the supply chain, not just bodies behind the wheel.
That starts with:
- Improving working conditions
- Advocating for better communication between dispatch and drivers
- Encouraging leadership at all levels, from rookie drivers to fleet managers
- Acknowledging that mental health and support systems matter just as much as load times
HandledNow is committed to being part of the solution.
Key Takeaways: What It Takes to Stay in Trucking Today
So what does it actually take to stay in trucking, not just this year, but for the long haul?
1. Invest in Your Growth
From safety certifications to leadership development, always look for the next skill you can master.
2. Think Like a Business Partner
You’re not just driving. You’re helping keep the economy moving. Act like it. Own your role.
3. Prioritize Safety and Reliability
A clean record is your ticket to the best gigs. Stay sharp, stay compliant, and never cut corners.
4. Build Strong Relationships
Whether it’s a mentor, a dispatcher, or a staffing agency, surround yourself with people who want to see you succeed.
Final Thoughts
Trucking isn’t just a job, it’s a career path, a lifestyle, and for many, a calling. As Zac Elsts shares in this episode, what it takes to stay in trucking comes down to mindset, mentorship, and meaningful growth. The road might be long, but with the right tools and people behind you, it can also be one of the most rewarding rides of your life.
Want to hear Zac’s full story and get more practical insights? Listen to the full podcast episode now.