Mike Myles Hits 25 Years of Service with Van Kam

Mike Myles, a Van Kam P&D Driver for over two decades, embodies resilience, patience, and a passion for the open road. Having recently celebrated his 25th anniversary with Van Kam Freightways, Mike reflects on a career that’s spanned 35 years in total, filled with countless experiences, customer connections, and memorable moments.

A Journey of Learning and Growth

For Mike, trucking has always been more than just a job, it’s a lifelong commitment. “I’ve been driving for 35 years, and I’m still learning new things every day,” he shares. From his early days behind the wheel to now, Mike has worked hard to sharpen his skills and develop the patience that the job requires. “Patience comes with time,” he reflects, explaining that it’s not just the years or miles that have shaped him, but the constant changes in the industry and his willingness to ask questions and keep improving.

The People Make It Worthwhile

What stands out most for Mike isn’t the landscapes he’s crossed or the freight he’s moved but the people he’s met along the way. “The interaction with customers and coworkers is something I truly enjoy,” he explains. Whether it’s a friendly conversation with a coworker or a word of thanks from a customer, those moments remind him why he loves what he does. “It’s nice to be recognized by customers who appreciate what you’re doing for them,” he reflects.

Finding Joy Beyond the Wheel

Outside of trucking, Mike finds joy in a few simple but fulfilling hobbies, with fishing at the top of the list. Whether it’s at Tunkwa Lake in the BC interior or along the rivers and ocean shores, Mike loves the peace that comes with being outdoors. “I’ll usually go up into the lakes, into the interior. Tunkwa Lake is one of my favourite spots, but that can change as I like to explore different lakes. I do some river fishing or ocean fishing if I get the chance as well,” he shares.

One of his most memorable moments came during a trip to the Queen Charlotte Islands, now known as Haida Gwaii, where he landed a 35-pound salmon. “It was about a 35-pound salmon… yeah, it was big,” Mike recalls. While he didn’t capture the moment with a photo, it remains one of his most cherished memories. It’s not the thrill of the catch that matters to Mike; for him, it’s the joy of being in the moment.

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked about advice for new drivers, Mike quickly emphasizes the importance of staying curious and never hesitating to ask questions. “If you’re not sure about something, ask,” he advises, adding that even those with years of experience can find something new to learn. “You have to watch, learn, and ask questions.” He also encourages new drivers to remain humble, reminding them that every driver, no matter how experienced, starts somewhere and should always be open to learning.

The Road Ahead

Mike has no plans to slow down after 25 years with Van Kam. “I’m not done yet,” he says confidently, eager for many more miles and fresh experiences. His dedication to his work and strong connection with the company have made him a vital member of the Van Kam family. As Mike continues his journey, we look forward to seeing him hit new milestones and inspire others along the way. Congratulations, Mike!

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