Maverick recently hosted the opening of their newly expanded training center with more than 13,000 additional square feet. The $4 million center now has multiple adjustable classrooms and five new training bays, enough to train 210 drivers at any time.
Maverick, predominantly a flatbed carrier, requires highly structured training. Proper load securement and an emphasis on safety have always been hallmarks of Maverick’s training program.
Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe was also on hand to speak to the capacity crowd and praise Williams for his efforts. While Beebe’s remarks may have been brief, he made it clear that Williams and Maverick don’t take any shortcuts. “They are the best I’ve ever seen at what they do. He’ll pay more, he’ll do more, and he’ll respond more. It’s easy for folks to take the low road. It’s never been an option for this company,” Beebe said. “Arkansas is noted for great trucking companies, but this is absolutely the best.”
Seventy-five percent of Maverick’s drivers come to the company without previous experience, so the cost for training them is expensive. Williams estimates the number to currently be approximately $10,000 per driver. “And we don’t know if that individual, once they graduate, get the keys to that truck, will be with us one day or the rest of their lives,” he said. Williams added retaining over-the-road drivers can be tough when the natural gas industry can pay its drivers much better wages.
