Robert Brillhart has made a lasting impact at the St. Johns campus of Tri-Area Trucking School. With a lot of hands-on experience and a genuine passion for teaching, Robert connects with each student in a way that goes beyond the classroom. His patience, expertise, and real-world perspective help students not only learn the technical skills of operating a commercial vehicle but also build the confidence, discipline, and mindset necessary for a successful career in the trucking industry. We sat with Robert to hear his story.
What inspired you to become an instructor at Tri-Area Trucking School? I have always enjoyed teaching and sharing what I know with others, but my path here was a bit unconventional. I started in the trucking industry to gain experience and learn the trade myself, and over time, I realized that guiding new drivers was something I really enjoyed. When Tri-Area reached out about teaching opportunities, I saw it as a chance to give back and help others navigate the challenges I had faced when starting out. It was intimidating at first, but I quickly discovered that teaching gave me a new perspective on the industry and allowed me to make a real difference in students' lives.
How has your experience been teaching at the St. Johns campus? It has been incredibly rewarding. Every day is different, and I never know exactly what challenges or successes the students will bring. Some students come in with no experience, while others have a basic understanding of trucks, but every one of them learns in their own way. I enjoy figuring out how to connect with each student and adapt my teaching style to fit their needs. Seeing the moment a student goes from nervous or unsure to confident behind the wheel is one of the most satisfying parts of the job. It keeps me motivated and reminds me why I wanted to teach in the first place.
What has been your favorite part of instructing students? Hands-on training is definitely my favorite part. Getting out on the range or on the road with students and watching them apply what they have learned in real time is really exciting. I especially enjoy teaching students how to overcome fear and hesitation, whether it is mastering a manual transmission or navigating a challenging maneuver. Many of these students have never been in a truck before, so helping them build that muscle memory and confidence is very rewarding. It is about more than just driving. It is about teaching responsibility, problem-solving, and how to think ahead in real-world situations.
What challenges have you faced as an instructor and how have you overcome them? One of the biggest challenges is recognizing that every student learns differently. Some need extra guidance and patience, while others pick up skills quickly but struggle with confidence. Early on, I realized that part of teaching is listening and observing as much as instructing. If a student does not understand something, it is my responsibility to figure out the approach that will make it click. Another challenge is balancing the technical demands of trucking with keeping students motivated and engaged. I have learned that humor, encouragement, and a hands-on approach go a long way toward creating an environment where students feel safe to learn and grow.
How does your personal experience in trucking influence your teaching style? My experience on the road has shaped everything I do as an instructor. I have worked in a variety of trucking roles, from local deliveries to managing my own small business, and I have faced challenges that give me perspective on what students might encounter. I try to share those real-world examples to help students understand that trucking is more than just following rules. It is about problem-solving, staying calm under pressure, and being adaptable. I also emphasize the importance of safety and professionalism, which are essential for long-term success in this industry.
What advice do you give students who are just starting the program? I always tell students to trust the process and not be discouraged if they make mistakes. Learning to drive a commercial vehicle is challenging, but persistence and practice pay off. I encourage them to ask questions, seek help when needed, and stay open to feedback. It is also important to develop patience and resilience because every day on the road is a learning experience. Beyond the technical skills, students need to understand that attitude, focus, and adaptability will make them stand out as professional drivers.
What do you hope students take away from your classes beyond driving skills? I hope students leave my classes with confidence and a sense of responsibility. I want them to understand that this career is about more than just operating a vehicle. It is about professionalism, problem-solving, and being prepared for any situation on the road. I also hope they take away a sense of pride in their accomplishments and an appreciation for teamwork and learning from each other. Even if someone decides trucking is not the right long-term fit for them, I hope they leave with skills and confidence that can apply to any career.
What are your personal goals as an instructor? I want to continue helping students build the foundation for successful careers while improving my own teaching skills. I enjoy mentoring students and guiding them through challenges, and I hope to see many of them succeed in the industry. Long-term, I would like to help the next generation of instructors by sharing my methods and insights so we can continue to grow strong programs at Tri-Area and ensure students are fully prepared for life on the road.
Robert's passion for teaching, dedication to his students, and real-world experience make him a valuable instructor at the St. Johns campus. He helps students build confidence, skills, and a professional mindset, going beyond the classroom with hands-on training and life lessons. Robert's influence continues to shape the next generation of professional drivers, giving them the tools and determination they need to succeed on the road and in life.
