Employee Spotlight: Daniel Garbe

Walking the floors around the Van Kam Freightways’ service centers throughout BC, one will quickly notice that some very unique and charismatic individuals work for our company. Case in point, meet Daniel Garbe, who’s been with our company for over five years. He works as a forklift operator and strips & loads trailers at our Surrey Terminal… but on the side, this guy’s got a couple of other things “brewing”.

A Beantrepreneur

Van Kam encourages all their team members to partake in a successful work-life balance wherever possible. Thankfully, many of them do, and it’s incredible what they can accomplish in their spare time. In addition to his role at Van Kam, Daniel also owns a coffee business on the side, the Daily Grind Beanery. It’s a full-service gourmet beverage service provider based in New Westminster, BC.

Daniel’s still in the early stages of growing his business, but he already has six coffee vending machines and working towards more. “Starting my own business has been a huge learning experience, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I love getting feedback from my customers, whether positive or negative. It’s a great way to see what I’m doing well and where I can improve,” says Daniel when asked about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

Brewing More Than Just Coffee

It’s not just coffee that Daniel is passionate about – he’s also a firm believer in the benefits of a positive work-life balance. “Thanks to the supportive culture at Van Kam, I can devote time to my young family, including my wife and our two-year-old son,” he says fondly. “I cherish the time I get to spend with my son, and even more excited about the traditions we’re already creating together as a growing family,” he adds.

Making the Right Investment

One thing that Daniel appreciates at Van Kam is the investment we make in our employees. We understand that it’s imperative to have the right tools and equipment in today’s trucking world; we’re committed to providing our team with what they need to succeed. As Daniel points out, most of the equipment he worked with when he first joined has been replaced with newer, more advanced units.

“I love working for this company because they care about the well-being of their staff,” Daniel says. “They provide us with the tools and equipment needed to do our job safely & effectively, and they’re always looking for ways to improve the workplace. I feel valued and supported, and I’m grateful for that,” he remarks.

Positivity Here, Positivity There

Van Kam believes that fostering a culture of positivity at work for our employees will also lead to a positive “off-work” personal life. Daniel is a prime example of what can happen when a motivated individual gets the right tools and support; we’re proud of him and all he’s accomplished. We can’t wait to see where he’ll help take our business (and his own) into the future!

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