Testimonials
Curtis Williams
“I’m not your average truck driver,” Curtis Williams states with assured certainty…and he just may be right. As a 23 year seasoned driver for Associated Grocers, he points out that is the running joke between him and his friends. Noting his well-put-together uniform at the end of his route, and being able to return home every single day—it’s not an average outcome in the profession. Competitive benefits and the ability to be home with his family nightly is a great opportunity, and the career driver does not see himself retiring any time soon.
“Being a driver is a tough job, but working for Associated Grocers makes my career so much easier. AG is a great place to work.” Curtis speaks of the details surrounding the job, along with training opportunities, incentives and a safety-driven culture. As he heads west, covering Louisiana areas such as Crowley, New Iberia and Abbeville, Curtis recounts that the updated equipment in his truck makes it a comfortable ride. “Having that type of security is beneficial to what I do every day. So I would say, no I’m not your average truck driver, but that’s because AG is not your average company. I love driving for AG because for us safety comes in a multitude of ways- career, pay and the durability of the truck. For me and my family, that is everything.”
Herman Gage Jr.
“A Main Reason I Drive for AG is… they are just as important to me as I am to them. I am valued.”
It was the rev of the engine and the possibilities of going someplace new that led Herman Gage Jr. to follow the route of his boyhood passion – driving big trucks. The Port Allen native’s first job was as a truck driver for a heavy hauling company. When that company relocated out of state, Herman began working at AG, and he contends that “It gave him the opportunity to work and interact with people… really good people.”
“People who don’t mind asking for what they need, and I don’t mind helping them,” Herman noted. “I help connect the retailers to AG. I’m another link for them.” For 25 years Herman has been a team member of Associated Grocers, and credits constant growth opportunities and safety techniques, as factors of his success. “There are a variety of trucking programs and health initiatives offered here that keeps us informed and up to date with what’s going on. I’m more aware of the industry and am more alert on how to stay healthy on the job.”
The long-time driver also credits the reciprocal relationship between him and AG as a factor in his longevity with the company. “I’ve always wanted to drive more than anything, and AG has provided that opportunity by being a trusted company to work for,” Herman said. “Working here is an honest, good living and since my first day on the job in 1990, I learned that I am just as important to them, as they are to me. That is a main reason that I work for AG.”
Randall Broussard
“The Best Part of Driving for AG is…we are equipped with quality, up to date trucks.”
For 10 years, Randall Broussard moved trailers around at Associated Grocers. When he was given the opportunity to train and drive for AG, he took his chance. Randall first came to AG after a retail member recommended the company to him. At the request of his wife, he didn’t hit the road due to her reservations concerning his safety. Although he didn’t initially start as a driver, he moved into that position and has been with AG for 28 years.
The best part of driving for AG is “we are equipped with quality, up-to-date trucks,” Randall shares. Having previously served as a Volunteer Firefighter for 20 years, simultaneously as a driver, the importance of safety resonates with him. Randall has been married for 35 years and has one son and two granddaughters, with whom he frequently spends time with. Randall’s family’s uncertainties about safety have certainly been put to rest. “AG cares about safety. When I’m out on the road, I can be assured that all safety precautions are met, and as a driver for AG, I am home every night to spend time with my family.”
William “Timmy” Martin
I Love Driving for AG Because…my job is secure.
Having grown up on False River, Timmy Martin is used to equipment- big equipment. His family owned a farm, and the trucking business was a part of his town … so driving is something that he knows. With the support of Associated Grocers, he has been able to do what he knows and loves, and not have to worry about instability.
When he climbs into the cab of the truck at AG, Martin puts his stereo and his CB on and then hits the road. He has been driving for AG for over 27 years and has seen the company grow exponentially – from its earlier days of having standard equipment to the current state-of-the-art trucking and warehouse equipment. “To me, this growth speaks volumes to the company’s leadership and vision throughout the years. It gives me an added assurance that by working for AG, I’ll be able to support my family,” Martin said. Those are the two things that have been constant throughout his life – making memories with his family and driving for AG. “AG has always looked out for the best interest of their employees. The trucks are updated and maintained; we don’t have to worry about being stranded somewhere. Driving for AG…I know what to expect.” Martin, a seasoned employee, also gives credit to many of the people he’s met. “This is a good company, with good people. At AG, it doesn’t matter what job you have – everyone’s treated the same, from the CEO to the janitor. I’ve always been proud of where I work…and for me, that matters.”
Troy Beaulieu
The benefits of Driving for AG are… Training Opportunities and Having a Say about My Route
Troy Beaulieu started out washing 18 wheelers, now he’s driving them. During his 30 years at AG, the company has helped him, by way of his own motivation, continue to head in the direction that offered greater opportunities. “A typical day may take me from Patterson to Baldwin, Louisiana and that next day I may be in Opelousas. That’s the way it goes, and I like it. It’s how I get to see Louisiana,” Beaulieu said. He also saw the chance for advancement the moment he hit the fleet yard at AG. Starting off in an entry-level position proved not to be a dead end. Beaulieu soon moved to work in the fuel area, and then began a certification program for truck driving. During his tenure as a driver, input on his route and assigned hours were more in his hands. “I love doing my job, but I’m also a family man. I have four children that I’m able to spend time with because I can make it home every night, and for me, that’s important.”
