How did you get started in trucking? What first drew you to this career? I first got into trucking a little over ten years ago. Like a lot of people, I wanted a stable career that would let me provide for my family while also giving me a sense of independence. I had tried a few different jobs before, but none of them gave me the kind of satisfaction I was looking for. When I started driving, everything just clicked. I loved being out on the road, traveling to different places, and seeing new parts of the country. It gave me a sense of freedom, but it also taught me responsibility. You’re handling thousands of pounds of freight, managing your time, and staying focused, it’s a serious job, but one that feels rewarding. It wasn’t easy at first. Learning to handle a truck that size takes patience and a lot of practice. But once I got comfortable, I realized I had found something I truly enjoyed. Trucking gave me a sense of purpose, and I’ve been proud to be part of an industry that literally keeps the country running.
What inspired you to become an instructor after so many years on the road? After being on the road for a long time, I started realizing how much I enjoyed helping other drivers. I would meet new people at truck stops or in training programs who were just starting out, and they’d ask me for advice, things like how to plan routes, manage sleep schedules, or handle backing in tight spots. I liked being able to share what I had learned and help them feel more confident. That naturally led me to think about teaching full-time. When I heard that Tri-Area Trucking School was looking for instructors, it just felt like the right fit. It gave me a chance to stay connected to trucking while also doing something that makes a real difference. Now, instead of helping one or two people here and there, I get to help full classes of students build their skills and confidence. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them go from nervous beginners to skilled drivers ready to start their careers.
What do you enjoy most about teaching? Watching students grow, that’s what it’s all about. On their first day, most of them are nervous, sometimes even scared. They might not believe they can handle something as big as a semi-truck. But little by little, you see them improve. They start shifting smoother, backing with more accuracy, and controlling the truck like it’s second nature. The best moment for me is when I see it click, that instant when a student realizes, “I can really do this.” You can see the pride in their faces, and it’s contagious. By the time they finish the program, they’re completely different people from when they started. That transformation is why I love this job. I also enjoy the camaraderie. We spend a lot of time together, and you get to know each student as a person. We share laughs, stories, and sometimes even a few frustrations. By graduation day, it really does feel like a small family.
What challenges do students usually face during training? Confidence is probably the biggest challenge. Driving a truck can be intimidating, especially at the start. It’s a huge piece of machinery, and mistakes can feel overwhelming. Some students get frustrated when they don’t get everything right the first time. I always remind them that no one starts out perfect. Even the best drivers had to go through that learning curve. The key is staying patient with yourself. Every mistake is just a learning opportunity. I make sure they know that it’s okay to take things step by step, progress is what matters most. Another big challenge is nerves during testing. A lot of students know their stuff but get anxious when the examiner is watching. I work with them on mindset, breathing, and confidence so they can perform at their best when it counts.
How would you describe your teaching style? My approach is calm, patient, and hands-on. I don’t believe in putting extra pressure on students. Learning something as complex as truck driving requires focus and trust. If a student feels tense or afraid of making mistakes, it slows their progress. I want them to feel comfortable asking questions, even if it’s something simple. I’m there to guide them, not judge them. Every student learns differently, so I adjust my teaching style to fit each person. Some need more time practicing maneuvers; others need help understanding the theory behind what we do. I also share a lot of real-life stories from my time on the road. It helps make the lessons more relatable. I’ve been in their shoes, and I think it helps students to hear that even experienced drivers are still learning every day.
What makes Tri-Area Trucking School stand out to you as an instructor? The culture here is special. Everyone, from instructors to staff, truly cares about the students. We’re not just focused on helping them pass their tests; we’re focused on preparing them for real-life driving. That means giving them the tools to handle challenges safely and confidently. There’s also a sense of community. We all support each other. If one student is struggling, instructors will step in to help even if it’s not their class. It’s a team effort. I think that makes a big difference in how our students feel, they know they’re not alone. We also emphasize hands-on experience. Students spend a lot of time in the truck, learning how to handle real situations they’ll face on the job. By the time they graduate, they’re not just ready for their CDL test, they’re ready for their career.
What advice do you give students who are just starting their training? My biggest piece of advice is to be patient and stay consistent. You won’t master everything right away, and that’s okay. Trucking is a skill that takes time to develop. You have to give yourself room to grow. I also tell them to stay curious and ask questions. There’s no such thing as a dumb question in my class. The more you understand the “why” behind what we do, the better you’ll be as a driver. And of course, safety is number one. Always. You can’t take shortcuts when you’re operating something that big. Paying attention, staying calm, and keeping your mind on the job will keep you and everyone around you safe.
How do you handle students who might be struggling more than others? I make time for one-on-one help. Sometimes it’s just a matter of explaining something in a different way or giving them extra practice time. I try to find out what’s really holding them back. Is it a technique? Is it confidence? Once I know, I can tailor my approach. For example, if someone struggles with backing, we’ll slow it down and take it step by step until they get it. I’ll walk them through every move until it feels natural. If it’s confidence, I remind them of the progress they’ve already made. A lot of times, they’re doing better than they think. No one should ever feel like they can’t ask for help here. Every student is capable of succeeding. They just need the right support and mindset.
What keeps you motivated in this role? The students keep me motivated. Seeing them come in unsure of themselves and leave as confident drivers is a feeling that never gets old. Every time someone passes their test or tells me they landed their first trucking job, it makes everything worth it. I also think teaching keeps me sharp. You have to stay current on industry standards and always find new ways to explain things. It’s made me a better communicator and a better driver. At the end of the day, I know what we do here really matters. We’re not just teaching people how to drive - we’re helping them start new careers and build better futures for themselves and their families. That’s something I take a lot of pride in.
What does success look like to you as an instructor? Success, for me, is when I see a student grow in both skill and confidence. It’s not just about passing a test. It’s about knowing they’re ready for the real world, that they understand how to handle challenges, stay safe, and keep learning. When they come back months later and tell me they’re thriving on the job, that’s the best kind of reward. It shows that what we teach here really sticks.
What do you hope your students take away from their time with you? I hope they walk away knowing that trucking is more than a job, it’s a career built on responsibility and pride. Every mile they drive matters. I want them to take pride in their work, stay humble, and never stop learning. I also want them to remember that the road is full of opportunities. If they work hard, stay safe, and keep a good attitude, there’s no limit to where this career can take them. And I want them to know that they’re always part of the Tri-Area family. Even after they graduate, they can always reach out for advice or support. Once you’re part of this school, you’re part of something bigger.
Tyler Brillhart’s path from the open road to the classroom reflects his passion for helping others succeed. His patient teaching style and real-world experience give students the tools and confidence they need to take the next step in their trucking careers. At the St. Johns campus, his steady guidance and approachable nature continue to make a lasting impact on every student who walks through his classroom doors. Whether he’s explaining complex concepts or sharing lessons from his own time on the road, Tyler creates an environment where students feel supported, motivated, and capable of reaching their goals.
