Trucking in the Talent
Former Sailor is prepared for his new career at J.B. Hunt.
By Warren Duffie

Former Navy Petty Officer Matthew Kaczynski has one goal to achieve at the end of each day – see his drivers finish each day as a team. Each day at J.B. Hunt presents a new set of unique challenges that requires no one correct solution. Unlike the military, there isn’t always just the “Navy way” of doing things.

“Each driver is different,” said Kaczynski, “with a different strength. I learn something new and helpful from them every day.”

Kaczynski’s day starts with a review of each driver’s load and mission. He also deals with payroll and billing issues. There are no average days for Kaczynski. Each day is different, and while some days can be light, others can present a long day of challenges.

“Average is for a common job,” said Kaczynski. “This job is anything but common. It is an experience that builds strength and integrity. I give 110 percent to the company every day and it gives it right back.”

On the Job
J.B. Hunt Transport is one of the leading transportation, logistics companies in North America. The company’s focus according to Kaczynski is “people, people and people.” J.B. Hunt seeks veterans to fill its positions because the company needs employees who believe in “the team.”

Not only is J.B. Hunt one of G.I. Jobs’ Top 50 Military-Friendly Employers® but it was through the magazine that Kaczynski found his job at the company.

The Transition
After six years in the Navy, Kaczynski started looking for his post-military career. Concerned that he wouldn’t be prepared to find a company with the same values and integrity as he shared in the military, he attended TAP class. There he started developing his civilian interviewing and job-hunting skills, and following leads and suggestions from everyone and every place.

During his military and TAP training, Kaczynski was given a copy of G.I. Jobs magazine, and found J.B. Hunt. The company had everything he was looking for: opportunity for advancement, stability, good benefits and strong roots.

“I planned ahead,” said Kaczynski. That is what he credits to his successful career choice. “Also, find a job that blends your expectations, strengths and desires.”

Acclamation
Kaczynski’s first day as a civilian brought its own set of challenges. He wasn’t used to thinking about what clothes to wear to work. It has always been camouflage and combat boots. There were even some small culture shocks to adjust to.

“Civilian women do not like to be called ma’am,” mused Kaczynski. Otherwise he felt very comfortable adjusting socially. “If anything, civilians should take a page from the military when it comes to dealing with people socially.”

The former petty officer made a great first impression on his first day as he hit the ground running. “I felt I gained real-world experience and dealt with an immense amount of responsibility,” said Kaczynski. “I took advantage of every possible resource preparing for my transition. I was ready.”