Crystal Covington's career path has taken her from the railroad, across the highways as a long-haul trucker, and into the classroom as an instructor. She brings a wealth of real-world experience to students at the St. Johns campus of Tri-Area Trucking School. Her technical expertise, combined with a personal approach to teaching, helps students grow not only as drivers but as confident professionals ready for the road ahead.
We sat down with Crystal to learn about her journey from farm life to the railroad, her over-the-road trucking career, and how she now shapes the next generation of drivers through her teaching.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and where you grew up? I grew up in Michigan, on a farm just outside of Grand Rapids. Life on the farm was all about hard work, responsibility, and getting your hands dirty. I have two sisters, and being the middle child taught me early on how to negotiate, assert myself, and still find joy in teamwork. Growing up, I was a total tomboy. I drove tractors, rode dirt bikes, and spent hours with our horses and other animals. Those experiences gave me a sense of independence and confidence that carried into every stage of my life. Even now, I love being outside, working with animals, and just staying active, it's part of who I am.
How did you first get into trucking? After high school, I worked on the railroad. I started as a conductor and eventually became an engineer, running freight trains across the country. I loved the work: the rhythm, the responsibility, and the thrill of moving massive machines safely. Unfortunately, a motorcycle accident made it impossible to continue with that career. I was in the hospital for almost a year, recovering from multiple injuries. The railroad actually helped pay for my truck driving classes, which opened up a whole new path for me. I started as an over-the-road driver, mostly hauling flatbeds, and I loved every minute. The freedom of the open road, the variety of locations I got to see, and the sense of independence were amazing. Truck driving felt like a perfect fit, combining my love of driving with a career that allowed me to be outdoors and active.
What was the biggest challenge transitioning from driving to teaching? I'd say the biggest challenge was learning how to communicate. Truck driving is mostly solitary. You spend hours alone, focusing on the road. Teaching, on the other hand, requires constant interaction, patience, and the ability to explain something that comes naturally to you in a way that makes sense to someone else. At first, I worried about whether I could effectively teach students who might be nervous or unsure. But over time, I found my rhythm. I've learned to read my students, adjust my approach for different learning styles, and celebrate small victories along the way. Watching someone go from hesitant and anxious to confident behind the wheel is incredibly rewarding, and it reminds me why I love teaching so much.
How does your experience on the road influence your approach to teaching? Everything I learned on the road comes into the classroom. I can tell my students, “Here's what really happens out there,” instead of just reading from a book. I emphasize safety, awareness, and practical problem-solving, because those are the skills that matter most when you're behind the wheel. I also share real stories - some funny, some challenging - from my over-the-road days. It helps students understand the realities of the job, from dealing with difficult traffic conditions to managing long hours on the road. I want them to leave my class not just with a license, but with confidence and the tools to handle unexpected situations.
What hobbies or interests do you have outside of teaching? I love my little hobby farm. It's my sanctuary. I have goats, chickens, prairie dogs, and I'm thinking of adding a cow or two. Gardening is another passion of mine, and I enjoy experimenting with flowers and landscaping to make my home and yard inviting. Beyond that, I ride my Harley whenever I get the chance. Being part of the biker community is thrilling, it's about freedom, camaraderie, and the joy of exploring new roads. Balancing teaching with these hobbies keeps me energized and happy, and I think it helps me bring positivity into the classroom.
What has surprised you the most about teaching at Tri-Area? Honestly, how knowledgeable some students already are. Many come from truck-driving families or have some exposure to commercial vehicles, so they aren't starting from scratch. That surprised me, because I expected to teach complete beginners, but it's been wonderful seeing students who are already passionate and motivated. Another surprise is just how rewarding the process is - watching someone gain confidence, handle the truck independently, and pass their tests is unlike anything else. Every class is different, and each student brings their own energy and curiosity, which keeps things exciting.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in trucking? Patience and persistence are key. Trucking is challenging, and the first few weeks or months can feel overwhelming. Don't get discouraged if you make mistakes - that's part of the learning process. Stay focused, ask questions, and don't be afraid to lean on your instructors or mentors. Also, enjoy the journey. You get to see parts of the country most people never experience, meet a variety of people, and develop skills that will last a lifetime. Approach trucking with an open mind, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude, and you'll find it to be a rewarding career.
What do you think are some important skills aspiring truck drivers should develop? First, you have to be comfortable being alone, because a lot of the job is solitary. Beyond that, common sense and awareness are critical. You need to anticipate what other drivers might do, stay calm under pressure, and make quick, safe decisions. Patience and discipline are essential too, because trucking requires adherence to strict rules and schedules. I also encourage my students to be curious - always ask questions, learn new skills, and pay attention to details. Those traits make great drivers, and they also help build confidence on the road.
Do you see more women entering the trucking industry? Absolutely. When I started, there were very few women in trucking or the railroad, but now I see a growing number of female drivers and instructors. Women often bring patience, calmness, and careful observation to the job - qualities that are extremely valuable in trucking. It's exciting to see the industry diversifying, and I hope to inspire more women to consider trucking as a viable and rewarding career.
What's been the most rewarding part of teaching? Seeing students succeed is the most rewarding part. When someone who was nervous at first masters the skills, gains confidence, and leaves with their CDL, it's incredibly fulfilling. I love knowing that I've helped shape their path and contributed to their success. Teaching isn't just about giving information, it's about mentoring, encouraging, and guiding someone through an important life transition. That's what makes this job so special to me.
How has teaching impacted your personal life? It's pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop stronger communication skills. Teaching can be draining at times, especially when students are struggling or anxious, but it's also energizing. Interacting with people every day, seeing their progress, and knowing that I'm making a difference is incredibly rewarding. It's also encouraged me to be more organized, patient, and reflective in my own life.
What's your outlook on the future of truck driving? I think trucking will always be in demand. The industry is evolving, and regulations are changing, but skilled, dedicated drivers will always be needed. It's becoming more challenging with more traffic and technological changes, but it's also a career that offers stability and opportunity. I encourage aspiring drivers to embrace change, stay adaptable, and focus on safety and professionalism. Those who do will thrive in this industry.
Crystal Covington's journey from a farm in Michigan to the railroad, and then into over-the-road trucking and teaching, is a story full of adventure, experience, and dedication. At the St. Johns campus, she brings her knowledge, passion, and personality to every class, inspiring students to become confident, skilled drivers. Beyond her professional life, Crystal nurtures her hobby farm, enjoys riding her Harley, and embraces life with curiosity and energy. Her story is a reminder that a career in trucking is not just about driving, it's about pursuing what you love, learning continuously, and helping others along the way.
