Switching Gears: Let's Talk CVOR Compliance with Mathew Lavallee and Rod Oattes

Red Army Radio

In this episode of Red Army Radio, host Francis Brazeau delves into the crucial topic of CVOR (Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration) compliance with two key members of the Tomlinson team: Mathew Lavallee, Tomlinson's CVOR/Fleet Compliance Advisor, and Rod Oattes, a 26-year veteran in the trucking division and recent recipient of the Eastern Ontario Driver of the Year award for 2024. Together, they explore the intricacies of maintaining a strong CVOR rating, the importance of safety in the trucking industry, and the benefits of a culture of pride and professionalism within Tomlinson. This episode offers a valuable insight into the efforts that go into keeping Tomlinson’s fleet safe, compliant, and operating at the highest standards.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Mathew Lavallee (CVOR/Fleet Compliance Advisor) and Rod Oattes (26-year trucking veteran and 2024 Eastern Ontario Driver of the Year).
• Explanation of what a CVOR is and its significance in commercial vehicle operations in Ontario.
• Discussion of Tomlinson's recent achievement of an excellent carrier rating and its rarity in the industry.
• Changes in trucking culture, including a shift towards safety and proactive vehicle maintenance.
• The role of senior drivers in mentoring and guiding new team members.
• The impact of a strong CVOR on daily operations and the potential consequences of non-compliance.
• Interactions with Ministry of Transportation (MTO) officers at weigh scales, emphasizing professionalism and respect.
• The company's commitment to maintaining clean and well-maintained vehicles and the positive effect that it has on the public's perception.
• Rod Oattes’ recognition as Eastern Ontario Driver of the Year and the criteria used for the award.
• Advice for aspiring truck drivers, emphasizing the importance of choosing a company that values its employees and offers mentorship opportunities.
• The benefits of Tomlinson's in-house training programs, specifically a new program on the horizon for driver certification renewals.
• An overview of Tomlinson’s Super Load program and its capabilities in moving large and oversized equipment.
• The difference between public sector and private sector approaches to safety and efficiency.
• The importance of proactive measures, continuous improvement, and networking within the trucking industry.

Key Takeaways:

• "The CVOR...is basically the right to operate commercial vehicles...on our Ontario roadways." - Mathew
• "We obtained an excellent carrier rating... [less than] 0.01% of all carriers" - Mathew
• "Now [we’re] leaning more towards the safety end of it. Get your loads, but stay safe." - Rod
• "Without that high standard of CVOR, then you've got trucks sitting." - Rod
• "Every clean inspection gives us points...we want those inspections." - Mathew
• "Amongst maybe 150,000 drivers, he was picked to be in on top of that." - Mathew on Rod's Driver of the Year award.
• "Try and pick one that's willing to stand behind their new employees...these are the guys that have the experience. They're there to help out." - Rod
• "Tomlinson is proud. We are not only able to do superloads, we are also able to teach and train people into acquiring a superload certification." - Mathew
• “Status quo will not keep us where we're at.” - Mathew
• “It’s not just driving for yourself anymore, it’s driving for the people around you now.” - Rod

Links:

• Tomlinson Group: https://tomlinsongroup.com/