Driver Representative Program

A Program to Build Driver and Management Communication

In 2001, Tandem Transport Corp established the Driver Representative Program.  This is a group of 25 to 30 drivers (both company and ICs) that is elected every two years based on a voting of Tandem Drivers and the recommendation of Tandem management.  This program allows for monthly meetings and because it occurs on a Wednesday in Michigan City, allows all Driver Reps the opportunity to attend meetings.

The main purpose of our Driver Representatives is to promote additional communications between all employees - drivers, maintenance, and staff personnel.  This gathering offers a large group of drivers access to the entire management staff in the presence of their peers.  Each meeting is designed to present issues that both drivers and management believe are important to the success of the Tandem Team. Through open and candid discussion, the group works to bring accurate information to the table and resolve any issues needing attention.

We encourage all of our drivers to utilize our open-door policy and communicate with office personnel when possible. We do realize, however, that many of our professional drivers do not find the opportunity to talk to office staff.  Therefore, we ask that our drivers contact one or several of the Driver Representatives to inform them of comments, concerns and/or suggestions.

The Driver Reps have made numerous contributions to the Tandem Team.  From a redesign of our tarps (and the continual review of the tarp specs) to pay package adjustments, changes to our tractor and trailer specifications, and the creation of a Driver Hardship Fund, the Driver Reps continue to present new ideas and suggestions to help Tandem succeed.  Their efforts not only help our fleet of professional drivers but also impact our staff as well.  Driver Reps offer feedback on how personnel, maintenance, safety, and all other departments are performing and give important advice on how they can improve their efforts.

Driver Reps and Tandem management meet on a monthly basis (normally on a Wednesday afternoon around 3P) in Michigan City, IN to cover issues important to the Tandem Team.  All departments are represented so that issues of concern regarding a department’s operation are properly noted.  In addition, the entire management staff is aware of the issues raised.  Tandem works to insure that each Rep is able to attend any and all meetings possible.   Dispatch notifies each Rep of the upcoming meetings and will arrange loads to direct the Rep through the Michigan City terminal.  Drivers are not required to attend every meeting but encouraged to attend at least one every quarter.  This insures that each Rep is made aware of issues pertinent to the fleet.