Fostering a Safety Culture: Ronnie Holland on TCW's Mission

Can you provide insights into the pivotal role safety plays at TCW and how your leadership contributes to fostering a culture of safety within the company?

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the Director of Safety for TCW. TCW's unwavering commitment to safety and its ambition to be the best in the industry were the reasons I joined the team back in 2009. I am proud to be part of a team that has achieved the ATA President's Trophy three times (2010, 2016, and 2023), along with being named Grand Champion of Safety in Tennessee (2023), North Carolina (2021), Georgia (2011 & 2018), and South Carolina (2011). These prestigious awards affirm our commitment to safety for the right reasons: Family, Duty, and Pride.  

What are some of the key safety initiatives or programs that TCW has implemented under your leadership, and how have they contributed to improving overall safety within the company?

Adhering to speed limits has been a cornerstone of our success, leading to an industry-leading CSA Unsafe Driving BASIC score. We have increased training and awareness regarding the risks of speeding, consistently measured our performance, and rewarded both drivers and terminals for achieving goals. As a result, we have recorded only one speed violation in the past seven years.

How does TCW proactively address emerging safety challenges and regulations to maintain compliance while fostering a culture of safety among drivers and staff?

By actively participating in the ATA Safety Management Council and State Trucking Associations, we stay informed about emerging safety challenges and regulations. Safety is not a registered trademark, and we appreciate collaborating with other carriers who are equally committed to making our industry and roads safer.

How does TCW approach driver training and development to promote safe driving practices and mitigate risks on the road?

TCW prioritizes equipping all employees with the necessary training to perform their duties safely and efficiently. Experienced drivers undergo a minimum of three days with a trainer, while student drivers participate in a comprehensive 20-day mentorship program. We schedule follow-up training sessions at 30, 90, and 180 days to reinforce learning and address evolving challenges. Additionally, we hold quarterly safety meetings at each terminal to discuss and promote safety practices. Leveraging the Infinit-i platform enhances training through accessible video resources, ensuring consistent and comprehensive learning experiences.

Can you share a specific example of a safety challenge or incident that TCW has faced, and how your team addressed it effectively, highlighting the importance of proactive safety measures?

Sleep apnea poses a significant challenge to both our industry and society. Recognizing the importance of drivers getting quality sleep, TCW established a Sleep Committee composed of members from various departments, including Drivers, Operations, Human Resources, and Safety Personnel. Recently, we introduced a Sleep Apnea program in partnership with RemSafe Sleep, offering at-home testing and treatment options for our drivers.

At TCW, we believe that safety is a collective effort. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our safety programs, reach out to us or leave a comment below. Let’s continue the conversation about how we can all contribute to a safer industry.