Fortec member, Forward Trucking Services, was established over 55 years ago and has since grown to provide quality logistics solutions to customers. With the aim of encouraging employees to progress within their careers, the FTS Academy was created to offer employees the opportunity to learn skills including transport planning, warehouse operations, HR and accounting alongside driving.
We spoke with Jake Cooper, a Class 2 multi-drop driver at Forward Trucking Services who recently graduated from the FTS Academy to find out about his career.
When did you begin your career in the transport industry, and what job roles have you worked in previously?
I am relatively new to the transport industry, having previously helped run my family business in telematics and telephony.
What skills have you learnt since being in your current role?
As part of the FTS Academy, I have qualified as a Class 2 driver and I’ve been mentored in the correct way to deliver palletised freight.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
My day starts at 7am, when I will locate the pallets for the day, scan on and begin delivering. I will then collect customer pallets, return to the depot and unload and then it’s repeat step one. Sometimes, dependant on how busy we are, a third run may be required but I’m usually done by around 3.45pm.
What may surprise people about your role?
Currently, I am trialling a new 100% electric Volta truck which has the steering wheel bang in the middle!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Team camaraderie with the other drivers and meeting different people every day are two huge benefits of my job. The support I have received from the FTS academy has also been incredible, and I like the fact that I’m my own boss once I’m out on the road.
Why do you think the transport industry is so important?
The transport industry is the lifeline of the nation – Covid proved that. The ‘Covid effect’ has now worn off and as drivers, we don’t tend to get recognised for what we do. FTS is making a crucial effort to try and change that and make a difference in the perceptions with better service, smart, uniformed drivers and initiatives like introducing the Volta electric truck.
To discover more about Forward Trucking Services and the FTS Academy, visit: https://forwardtrucking.co.uk/
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