The story of Stijn

Stijn, who are you besides your work?

I am originally from Eeklo, but live in Deinze now, with my girlfriend. I don't really have many hobbies. I am a proud dad of my 2 children, Luìs and Rosie. So, when I am not working, I like to spend time with my family.

I used to play the guitar and I might like to do this more. I like genres such as Blues or heavier guitar work. I also tinkered with vintage cars.

I am also someone who values good communication, that is important to me.

How did you find your way to Mervielde?

I have been driving a tanker truck for a long time and already had my ADR. I spent a long time working in food and transporting fuel. I did not know Mervielde, but I did recognize their tankers. You see them everywhere.

I was at a point in my life where I wanted to make long journeys and transporting lubricating oil seemed like something I wanted to do. I contacted Patrick Mervielde myself and had an interview to get acquainted.

Now that my children are getting older, I want to be at home more. I talked about it with Mervielde and can now do shorter trips to be at home more. I really appreciate that they take this into account.

You have been a driver for Mervielde for several years now, what keeps you here?

I just like doing it. It is not a lonely job; I have many contacts and deal with 5 to 6 clients a day. There are sometimes waiting times, but you choose how you deal with them. And I have to say that I might take my guitar with me more often to bridge those waiting times.

There is mutual trust here, contact with the planning is going well and there is room for some 'small talk’. That makes a difference as a driver, if there is good human contact. They also take your preferences into account. I have a lot of respect for that because this must be very complex for them. No pressure is passed on to the drivers. They always look so calm. Even if they ask for an extra, they always check whether this is OK with me.

My job is also - I think - not for everyone. You have to enjoy doing the work. You have to keep your mind on it and be willing to take responsibility. Doing quality work is our pride.

Finally, you have many options here depending on what you want. Would you rather come home every day or be away for a week? They see what they can do. You have job security, and you are well paid.

Stijn, what would you do if you had all the courage in the world for 20 seconds.

I would go to Mars! Or no, I think... If my father should ever ask me to take over his B&B, I would do that. Combined with driving, though, because as a driver I cannot improve, and I would never leave.