Alan MaytkaRoehl TransportAlan Matyka recently surpassed another major milestone as a truck driver by logging over 5 million miles without an accident. He drove every one of those miles with Marshfield, Wisconsin-based Roehl Transport. 

A flatbed driver, Matyka joined Roehl Transport in March of 1984, after a friend started working for the company. At the time, there were some 140 drivers with the company, and he recalls the first other Roehl driver he spoke with over the CB was Rick Roehl, somewhere in Michigan.

A lot has changed over the years, both in the trucking industry and at the company. Roehl has grown to over 3,000 teammates and Rick Roehl is now CEO.

“Alan demonstrates our cornerstone value of safety with every mile he drives. Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and dedication,” said CEO Roehl.

Matyka grew up on a farm in Wisconsin, and said he knew at a young age that he wanted to drive because “being a truck driver just fit” him. Whether it was driving a tractor, a lawn mower or a truck, Matyka said, “I’ve got to have a steering wheel in my hands. You can always look back and see what you’ve done.”

Matyka continued to improve by paying attention to what others are doing and understanding how he can do things smarter. Now, after 40 years, Matyka becomes Roehl’s second driver to log 5 million safe miles.

Looking back on his driving career, Matyka said, “Everything you’ve got in life is attributed to having a good, steady job.” 

As Matyka looks to his future, he sees taking care of many projects around his home. Of course, he still likes to work the fields and mow his lawn. 

“I’m going to go home and mow the grass and watch it grow for once,” he said.