2010
Ken BakkenDSR, XSL
Driver sales representative Ken Bakken did not begin his career as a professional driver, but found that it was a natural fit for him while working at a truck dealership.
“After I got out of the Marine Corps, I took a job working at a local dealership,” said Ken. “While I was there, I got my CDL so that I could move the trucks. I discovered that I liked driving, and decided to make it my full-time job.”
Driving defensively, always being aware of his surroundings and leaving enough space between yourself and other vehicles are the keys to maintaining such a safe driving record, according to Ken.
“My advice to other motorists is to be aware, check your mirrors frequently and always leave yourself an out in case something happens unexpectedly,” he said. “The more conscious you are of other vehicles on the road, the better prepared you’ll be if you’re forced to react quickly.”
Ken says what appeals to him the most about driving for a living is the fact that he is not tied down to one location, and is constantly on the move. In fact, he also likes to spend his free time out on the road, but on his motorcycle.
“I like to take long-distance trips whenever I can,” said Ken. “I’ve traveled out to the West Coast, to Eastern Canada and down to Florida. I’ve been all over the United States, and would love to be able to take my bike to Europe someday, especially to Norway and Germany.”
Ken is proud of reaching two million miles, even though he said it was nothing he ever set as a specific goal. For him, being safe is simply part of the job. However, when asked to reflect on the achievement, he is quick to credit his family with helping him reach such a milestone.
“I have a good family life, and a good wife who makes sure I always get the proper rest I need. It’s thanks to her that I am able to be as successful as I am,” he said.
A resident of Bethalto, Ill., Ken is based out of Con-way Freight’s St. Louis, Mo., service center. He has been married for 24 years to his wife, Becky, and in his spare time he enjoys golfing and riding motorcycles.
