Celebrating Marty Bayes
We recently honored Marty Bayes for celebrating 25 years at Knight.
That’s right — a quarter century — just about 3/4 of our existence as a company. Last Friday, the Buckeye Terminal lined up and led the ovation for Marty, who was completely surprised by the celebration. It wasn’t obvious at first, but there were some tears too, reflecting on his journey and those who stayed close along the way.
We had the privilege of interviewing Marty about his time at Knight. Read about his experience below:
Can you talk to me a little about some of the positions you’ve held over the past 25 years?
“It was not that many positions. I started driving for Knight in 1999. I worked for ports for 3 years and then moved on to dry van. I was in dry van until I was asked by Chris Van Cleve to come over to the training department. I trained a bunch of students; I think about 62. Then I went from being a trainer to being an instructor. I believe I started in 2016 as an instructor; could be 2018. Then I moved into the leadership area and then I moved into the classroom. I wanted to develop the curriculum and give back what I learned for all the years that I drove.”
Did you ever think you’d teach?
Actually, no. I didn’t think I’d teach but it sort of fell into my lap and I said “This is a good fit”. I liked it. I really did
Have there been any pivotal moments in your career here that shaped the rest of your journey? Whether it was switching from being a driver to a trainer or from a trainer to an instructor. What’s one big moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
Well, I knew I wasn’t going to be driving the entire time I was here. I was good friends with Chris Van Cleve. When he wanted some help as an instructor, he made it happen. We went through a lot together. We helped each other.
Would you say he’s been the most significant colleague you’ve met here?
Yes, definitely. I’ve had many coworkers that I’ve really enjoyed working with. One of them, Leah Johnson, is no longer here. She played a pivotal role in helping me transition into the office, become an instructor, and join the training department.
Do you have a favorite memory that stands out? I know it’s hard to pick just one in so many years.
The most memorable time was the time when I was instructing. I’d get to see a lot of people’s dreams come true. They are so appreciative of the help and of going from a non-driver to a driver. I love when they come back and talk about what changed and the difference it’s made in their lives. I like helping people.
I think you are in the right career. I have a couple of industry/company questions. How has the industry changed since you began working here and how do you think we, as a company, adapted to it?
In my estimation, it has been very regulated. More than when I was driving. Knight has really kept up with it. They have moved on to helping in the transition to the new regulation. They’ve done a really good job of complying and still being a very viable company.
Do you think the academy will grow to other terminals as well?
We already have another one in Indianapolis. I would love to see a school in every state. It would be very cool. I don’t see it being feasible, but it could be a dream.
Dreams are good. My final question would be your reflection on this past quarter of a century spent here.
Oh God, I feel old.
No, not old. You are wise and experienced. What’s kept you motivated and loyal for that amount of time?
From the time that I started working here, I didn’t know I was going to be with the company this long. Most of my jobs were for 5 years. I saw a pattern there and I didn’t like it. I thought, well, let’s try 10. 10 became 15, 15 became 20, and now 25. It was like getting my first million miles. In the beginning, it looks so far away and you don’t really realize it until it happens.
It’s like fog on the horizon and then it just becomes clearer.
Yeah! I just enjoy working with the people I work with. I see a lot coming and a lot going and I’ve made a lot of friendships and memories here. I don’t know how else to say it but I really enjoy these people. They are so… how do I say it… true. I don’t know if that’s the word I’m looking for. But they’ve helped me get where I needed to be and where I am now. I have them to thank, not just myself.
Marty serves as an example of consistency, dedication, and selflessness, like many others who have paved the way for our next generation of drivers. We’re grateful for his contribution to the Knight story and the legacy he continues to build. We’re sure it’ll outlast him.
