Trainer of the Month: Steven Higby

At our Phoenix Dry Terminal, veteran driver and respected trainer Steven Higby has built a reputation for excellence. With nearly two decades of experience on the road and more than 12 years as a trainer, Steven has helped shape the careers of more than 150 professional drivers. This month, he is being recognized as our April Trainer of the Month, a well-earned honor for someone who consistently leads by example.

Steven’s journey into trucking began after a successful career in business ownership. “I owned my own business, a 7-Eleven franchise, and sold cars. My wife was researching what I could do, and there was a lot of want and need for good truck drivers,” he said. That search led him to Knight in August 2008, where he found a long-term home and career.

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A True Trainer at Heart

Steven stepped into the trainer role when Chris VanCleve saw his potential as a leader. Since then, he has trained consistently, taking only a brief pause during the pandemic. “Chris wanted somebody in the seat next to me all the time. And that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.”

His approach to training is immersive and realistic. Trainees under Steven’s guidance are expected to handle real-world conditions, including traffic, weather, mountain roads, and construction zones. “My guys do not get pulled out for backing. They do not get pulled out of the seat for bad weather or mountain driving, or traffic. They have to learn while I’m in the seat next to them,” he explained. “I give everybody full effort.”

Steven believes that the foundation of good training is consistency and adaptability. He encourages drivers to embrace technology, but also teaches them how to operate confidently without it. “If technology goes down, I can still do my job,” he said. “I show trainees how to use a road map. It helps them pay attention, read signs, and stay relaxed behind the wheel. It gets them comfortable faster, rather than just relying on GPS.”

Teaching to Think, Not Just Drive

Steven’s focus goes beyond technical skill. He emphasizes critical thinking, encouraging trainees to be prepared for the unexpected. “If you think and you’re patient, slow your mind down, and make good decisions, you’ll last a lot longer doing this.”

He believes the best drivers are thinkers, able to plan ahead and adapt as needed. “Anybody who tells you—trainer or driver—that they know where they’re going to end up each day isn’t being honest. There’s too much going on out here. Weather, traffic, accidents, construction, heavy loads. You have to think your day through and be ready to adjust.”

Mentorship Beyond the Driver’s Seat

Steven takes pride in being more than a trainer. He sees his role as a mentor, guiding drivers not only in the truck but also in their professional lives.

“I try to cover all aspects of the company, not just how to drive and be safe and disciplined. I talk to them about the health plan, the 401(k), the stock program,” he said.

His financial advice is simple but powerful. “Learn the difference between need and want. Save your money. When you get older, like I am, having flexibility because you’ve saved can be invaluable.” He adds with a chuckle, “If I had started early on my savings plan, I’d be retired by now.”

Trainees Who Prove the Difference

When asked about an underdog trainee success story, one driver stood out instantly. Steven recalled a young man who had grown up in a difficult environment but was adopted by an affluent family. Initially, Steven had doubts about whether he would stick with the job.

“Two weeks after getting into his own truck, they called and said, ‘This guy is an animal. He’s doing incredibly well.’ I was wrong about him.”

That trainee, he said, proved that success in trucking is about effort, mindset, and resilience. “He was goofy, but he did well. It shows that even if you haven’t had formal education, your life experience can still carry you far in this career.”

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Though Steven is humble about his role, the results speak for themselves. Many of his trainees have gone on to become trainers, owner-operators, and successful long-term drivers. His dedication has not only shaped careers but also built a legacy of safe, confident professionals on the road.

“They know that when they’re done, they’ve been well trained,” he said. “And that gives them a real shot at success.”