May’s Trainer of the Month: Marlo H.
At Knight Transportation, the title of Trainer of the Month is reserved for those who do more than teach—they inspire, mentor, and elevate the next generation of drivers. For May, we’re proud to recognize Marlo H., a Trainer out of our Las Vegas terminal whose impact spans nearly three decades, more than 3 million miles, and over 125 trained drivers.
A Legacy on the Road
Marlo earned her CDL in 1997 at just 24 years old—and she’s been rolling ever since. She began her driving career hauling agricultural loads and quickly gained experience across a wide range of freight and driving conditions. Nearly three decades and over 3 million miles later, Marlo has remained a constant presence in the cab—not only as a driver, but as a dedicated trainer helping others find their footing in the industry.
That same loyalty and commitment extend far beyond the road. Marlo has been married for 25 years—a reflection of the deep-rooted compassion, patience, and integrity she brings to every part of her life, including the way she mentors new drivers.
“It’s in my blood,” Marlo says. “My dad was a logging driver, and my uncle worked for Goodyear. I was always in the truck. I looked up to them.”
Through every chapter of her journey, one passion has remained: helping others succeed in trucking.
Turning Tough Experiences into Purpose
Marlo’s entry in trucking, especially as a woman, wasn’t easy—and that experience drives her mission today.
“Back then, training for women was not ideal,” she recalls. “I swore no woman would ever feel like that in my truck. That’s why I make it a point to connect with women—sharing what’s possible in trucking, encouraging them to consider CDL school, and letting them know there’s a place for them at Knight.”
Since her third year of driving, Marlo has trained consistently-training more than 125 drivers. Helping others succeed is woven into her career.
Training with Heart and Hustle
Marlo’s training style is tough, honest, and rooted in compassion. “I’m strict but understanding. I don’t sugarcoat anything because I want them to succeed. My trainees can call me anytime, and I’m there.”
She customizes her approach to each trainee, recognizing that everyone learns and communicates differently. Cleanliness, professionalism, patience, and making trucking fun are her core values. “You can’t invite someone into your home—or in this case, your second home—if it’s not clean,” Marlo says. “Patience and communication are key but so is creating a space where they feel safe and comfortable.”
Marlo teaches the lifestyle of trucking, not just the job. From safety and trip planning to log management and personal security—especially for women—she ensures every trainee knows how to navigate life on the road. “This isn’t a 9 to 5 job,” she emphasizes. “You have to teach people how to live this life, not just drive the truck. Plan your shutdowns, know where you’re going to park, stay at the Knight terminals when you can, and always be aware of your surroundings.”
"I'm strict, but understanding. I don't sugarcoat anything because I want them to succeed. My trainees can call me anytime, and I'm there."
Marlo H.
Making a Lasting Impact
Marlo’s support doesn’t stop when the training ends. “Their first two weeks on their own, they’re calling me 50 times a day,” Marlo says with a laugh. “I remember that feeling of second-guessing yourself, and I know newly solo drivers go through it a lot. I keep in touch with many of them, even if they move to different companies—they still reach out when they need help.”
Her most fulfilling moments come from the friendships she’s built and watching trainees grow from rookies to experienced professionals—and eventually become trainers themselves.
Words to Train By
Training, Marlo says, has made her a better person. “Training has made me a better human,” she shares. “It’s taught me to listen more, to be open, and to make changes in myself to help others feel comfortable.” Her ability to adapt, connect, and uplift is what truly sets her apart, and it’s what continues to inspire the next generation of drivers in her truck. To those thinking about becoming a trainer, her advice is simple:
“Clean your truck. Be ready to share your space and make it comfortable for someone else. This isn’t just about you. The name on that truck is Knight, and you represent it.”
