Every September, America takes a week out of the year to honor professional truck drivers, both men and women, for their hard work and dedication to providing an essential service to the American economy. Please join Freightliner's Team Run Smart in celebrating truckers all over the country who work hard and run smart to keep America moving.
As part of the celebration, we feature the profile on Paul Hoopingarner, owner-operator and mechanic at Hopsfarmer Trucking:
I love to drive trucks and work on trucks, and when I’m not driving or working on trucks, I love to spend time with my family. My wife and I really enjoy our time together and we especially enjoy when NASCAR is on.
My grandfather and one of my uncles were truckers. As a child I was fascinated by big trucks and after my uncle took me for a ride in his truck, I knew that’s what I wanted to be! After high school I trained in automotive and diesel mechanics, and shortly after I obtained my CDL. I spent the majority of my career as a company driver, but for the last three years I have been an owner-operator. I have no regrets and never looked back! I have traveled 38 of the lower 48 states, for the last three years and I have operated solely within the state of Oklahoma.
I run a 2005 Freightliner Century Class hooked to a 2000 Monon 53’ Dry Van. I have driven many makes of trucks, but I prefer my Freightliner!
I owe the success of my business to two things: my determination to succeed and the support of my awesome wife Cindi. Without her it may not have gotten this far.
I say this to anyone chasing the dream of being an owner-operator; look and be professional. It matters. Keep accurate records and most importantly maintain your vehicle. If you perform proper pre-trip and post-trip inspections and keep the proper air pressure in your tires, you can’t go wrong.
Hopsfarmer Trucking operates within the state of Oklahoma as an intrastate motor carrier offering trailer and power only services, T/L, LTL and hotshot services as well. We haul general dry freight of all kinds and serve the state of Oklahoma exclusively.