Brian Doering Celebrates Three Decades Behind the Wheel

Brian Doering has spent 30 years at Van Kam, keeping shipments moving across Nanaimo and beyond. As a Pickup & Delivery (P&D) driver based out of Nanaimo, Brian has seen the industry change, roads evolve, and businesses grow, but his commitment to the job has remained steady. His journey into trucking started over 40 years ago, and in many ways, he has never looked back.

Right Place, Right Time

Brian’s career with Van Kam began unexpectedly. He was working for another freight company when, after finishing an afternoon shift, he learned the business was shutting down. Instead of dwelling on uncertainty, he walked over to the Van Kam terminal in Nanaimo and met with the terminal manager.

“The manager asked me if I wanted to head to Port Alberni that night,” Brian recalls. Without hesitation, he said yes, pulling a double shift that same day. That decision set the course for a three-decade career at Van Kam, which has been defined by consistency, adaptability, and a passion for the road.

The Road Keeps It Interesting

For Brian, trucking has never been just about the miles. It is about the people he meets and the places he gets to see. “I meet new people every day, and every day is never the same,” he says. Whether a quick chat with a customer or a drive through a new route, there is always something different to keep things interesting.

After decades on the road, his approach has never changed. “People need stuff. My duty is to deliver it,” he says with a shrug. For him, it’s as simple as that.

From Slopes to Fairways

Brian has always loved being outside. Before an injury sidelined him, skiing was his sport of choice, and Mount Washington and Kimberley, BC were his go-to spots. These days, he has swapped ski poles for golf clubs, but the thrill of being out in the open remains the same.

Every summer, he tees off once a week with his brother-in-law, making the most of BC’s scenic courses. Cottonwood is a favourite, but they mix things up and try different locations. “I love getting out for a round in the summer. We move around a lot, but Cottonwood is always a good time,” he says. For Brian, it is less about the score and more about the time spent outdoors.

Thirty Years and Counting

Spending 30 years with one company is not something many can say, but it has been a steady and rewarding road for Brian. He has seen Van Kam grow, made countless deliveries, and built connections with people along the way. Through it all, his approach has remained the same. Show up, do the job, and keep moving forward. He would not have it any other way.

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