A car enthusiast with a strong heart, CJ is known for stepping up when it matters and representing Hogan with honesty every day.
Hogan proudly recognizes CJ Metcalf, a professional truck driver with 35 years of experience and 22 years with Hogan on the Save A Lot account. Known for his reliability, strong character, and no-nonsense work ethic, CJ consistently represents Hogan with pride and professionalism.
Outside of work, CJ enjoys everything cars – from car shows to admiring classic builds. He values quality time with his wife and likes watching documentary-style shows. His favorite place to travel is Washington, DC, and his dream trip is to explore Italy or England.
When asked what advice has guided him most, CJ kept it simple: be yourself and be honest. He encourages others to do the same – reflect on who you are, show up as your real self, and do a good job because your work reflects directly on you.
CJ says he got into trucking for the chance to travel and reach across America. Over the years, what has meant most is the support he has received from Hogan and its management team. During a difficult season of personal loss, CJ shared that Hogan stood by him – giving him the time and care he needed while he grieved. That support strengthened his loyalty and appreciation for the people he works with every day.
CJ’s integrity shows up on the job, too. One story that stands out: while helping unload at a grocery store (even though it was not required), the store set aside $300 as a thank-you. CJ immediately turned the money in to Hogan management – a moment that speaks volumes about his honesty. In recognition of his character and willingness to help, the Hogan team returned the money to him.
Because Hogan supported him through life off the road, CJ was also able to take part in Wreaths Across America – an experience he was grateful for and proud to be part of. Honoring and remembering fallen service members through that opportunity was especially meaningful to him.
CJ describes himself as strong in personality but with a good heart. Family is extremely important to him, and he is proud to be someone others can count on – both on the road and at home. We appreciate CJ for the example he sets and the steady, dependable presence he brings to Hogan.
From puzzles to long-haul problem solving, Jeremiah approaches every day with a plan and consistently goes the extra mile for his team.
Hogan proudly recognizes Jeremiah Smith, a professional truck driver with 14 years behind the wheel and four years with Hogan on the PODS account. Jeremiah is known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and consistent professionalism – and for safely logging some of the most miles on his account.
Jeremiah’s happiest moments revolve around his kids. Outside of work, he enjoys sports and puzzles – interests that fit his natural curiosity and love of figuring things out.
That curiosity is part of what drew him to trucking. As a kid, he would daydream on road trips about where trucks were headed. Later, he grew tired of putting miles on his personal car while exploring new roads just to see where they would lead. Trucking became the perfect blend of discovery, independence, and real-world problem solving.
Jeremiah says Hogan has always looked out for him – from previous leaders to the team he works with today. He credits Bree Phillippe with creating a level of comfort and trust, and shares that his current Operations Manager, Christopher McClain, continues that support. What he appreciates most is driving a well-maintained Hogan truck without having to worry about pay, repairs, or unrealistic dispatch demands – just doing the job right and taking pride in the work.
The best advice Jeremiah has received is: ‘Nothing changes if nothing changes.’ He adds that planning your way through tough moments matters – and remembering the tools that worked, because you will need them again. He also shares a driving reminder that sticks with him: drive like an elephant – do not put your foot down unless you know the ground is safe. In other words, respond rather than react. A response means you were ready and had a plan; a reaction can lead to instinctive decisions that do not always work in your favor.
One of Jeremiah’s favorite memories from the road happened on a long detour in southeast Oregon during late winter. With no cell signal, no radio, and nowhere to pull over for hours, stress set in. Then he spotted a ‘last gas for 70 miles’ sign and found a small stop where he could finally take a break. When he asked if he could stay the night, the clerk not only allowed it – she reopened the kitchen and made him dinner. It is a moment he still remembers as a reminder of unexpected kindness on the road.
Jeremiah describes himself as witty and competitive – someone who loves to teach, learn, and trade knowledge (and who jokes that he is never wrong!). His manager selected him for this spotlight because of his dedication to the team and willingness to go the extra mile. We are thankful for Jeremiah’s hard work, communication, and steady commitment to safe performance every mile.
