Greg Swift, a veteran driver for Schneider National, Inc., has reached an outstanding milestone by driving five million miles without a preventable accident—a true testament to his commitment to safety. While over 6,560 Schneider drivers have surpassed one million safe driving miles, Swift stands out as only the third driver in the company’s nearly 90-year history to achieve five million safe miles. Today, at Schneider’s headquarters in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Swift will ceremonially complete his five millionth mile. To honor this remarkable accomplishment, the company is holding a parade, a “Sound the Horn” celebration—a tradition where a truck horn is sounded inside the headquarters to mark significant achievements—and awarding Swift a $10,000 bonus for his exceptional and safe driving, in addition to the performance pay he has earned over the years.
“Reaching five million miles seemed unimaginable,” Swift said. “It’s an immense honor to be recognized and to be part of a company that equips us to succeed. Safety is the key to long-term success.”
Swift, who transitioned from a teaching career to driving for Schneider 33 years ago, has become a shining example of the company’s core value: “Safety First and Always.” Now driving a dedicated route for Schneider’s longtime customer, Georgia-Pacific, he values the consistency and the work-life balance that his role offers.
“We are in the service business, and professional drivers like Greg are the foundation of our success,” said Schneider President and CEO Mark Rourke. “Drivers who dedicate their careers to safety, who put their customers first and for whom excellence is non-negotiable, leave a legacy for others to follow. Greg is one of those drivers, and I’m grateful he’s been an integral part of our team for so long.”
Swift’s experience, from navigating with paper maps to using advanced GPS and collision mitigation systems, reflects the significant advancements in the trucking industry. Throughout these changes, one thing has remained consistent: Schneider’s dedication to equipping drivers with top-notch equipment, technology, and processes to prioritize their safety.
“I think the five million miles has done more than just boost my career,” said Swift. “It’s taken my home life, financial life and overall wellbeing to new levels. With a great career and the miles I’ve driven, great things have come along with it.”
Swift shares straightforward yet invaluable advice for new drivers: always plan ahead and manage your time wisely. Among the highlights of his career are driving through breathtaking landscapes and observing infrastructure developments over the years. However, the most memorable milestone for him was meeting his wife, Erica, who is also a Schneider associate.
When asked about Greg’s successful career at Schneider, Erica said, “If Greg could go back in time, he would absolutely choose a career in trucking over and over again. Schneider has provided us both with an immense amount of opportunities and memorable experiences. I am beyond proud of Greg as the third ever driver to reach five million safe miles.”
