Dispatchers play a key role in the transportation industry, acting as the link between drivers and customers to make sure freight gets to where it needs to be on time. At Roane Transportation we know that our employees are our biggest asset, the heart and soul of the company. This month we are shining the employee spotlight on Thomas Burgess. We sat down with Thomas to learn more about him, his role as a dispatcher, and his experience working at Roane Transportation.
Tell us a little about yourself—where you’re from, family, what you like to do in your free time etc.
I’m from Oakdale, Tennessee. I’ve been married to my wife Amanda for 9 years now and we have an eight-year-old son. In my free time I like to hunt, fish, and do a little Jeepin’. I also like to do home renovation projects around our house from time to time.
How did you start your career as a dispatcher?
It was a spur of the moment change. I was working as a supervisor at a distribution center when I came across the dispatcher job listing at Roane. I applied and they took a chance on me.
How long have you been working for Roane Transportation and what has your experience been like?
I’ve been working at Roane Transportation for about 2 years. It’s been awesome, I love it.
For anyone who doesn’t know, can you explain what exactly a dispatcher does?
Basically, a dispatcher’s job is to direct freight from point A to point B in the most efficient way possible, communicate with the drivers and customers, and handle any problems that come up.
What does your typical day look like?
A lot of phone calls, emails, and coffee!
What is your favorite thing about being a dispatcher?
I don’t get bored. Every day is different and there’s always new challenges to figure out and new problems to solve.
What is the most challenging thing about your job?
The hardest thing about being a dispatcher is trying to make everyone happy.
Are there any misconceptions that you think people have about the trucking/transportation industry?
From a driver’s point of view, I think it can seem like dispatchers are out to get them sometimes, but at the end of the day we are all just trying to keep our customers happy.
Start your Career at Roane Transportation
If you’re searching for jobs in East TN, look no further than Roane Transportation. Whether you have experience in the transportation industry or you’re looking to embark on a new career path like Thomas, Roane Transportation has job opportunities for you. Roane Transportation is constantly growing so we are always looking for new talent to join our team. We appreciate our employees and show our appreciation by providing industry-leading pay, excellent health, dental, vision, and life insurance packages, and a family-first atmosphere with a healthy work-life balance. Learn more about Roane Transportation, find out more about truck driving jobs, apply to become a truck driver, or apply to work in the office today!