Instructor Darrell | Trucks Magazine

Name: Darrell Jones

Age: 44

Job Title: Instructor

Work Hours: Full time

How long have you worked at Dulson Training: 4 years

In 2016, after serving 17 years in the Army, Darrell took the next step in his career by gaining his Class 2 HGV licence, followed shortly afterwards by his Class 1 licence with Dulson Training. He then spent six years driving HGVs, gaining invaluable first-hand experience and developing a deeper understanding of the industry from behind the wheel.

"I've always loved driving," Darrell explains. "I wanted a job where I could work independently, so becoming a driver was the perfect career for me."

Although he enjoyed life on the road, the idea of becoming an instructor had always appealed to him. When the opportunity arose to join the team at Dulson Training, it felt like the natural next step. His years in the military had taught him discipline, patience and the importance of clear communication, all qualities that have proved invaluable in his role as an instructor.

"To be a good instructor, you need patience and the ability to communicate clearly," says Darrell. "You have to be able to take the rough with the smooth. It's all about how you communicate with your students because that's what helps them succeed."

For Darrell, nothing compares to seeing a student's hard work pay off.

"The best part of the job is seeing people pass their test. You've watched their journey from start to finish and seeing them pass with little or no driving faults is incredibly rewarding."

Like any role, however, it has its challenges.

"It can be frustrating when you have a run of test failures. I used to take it personally, but over time I've learned not to."

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What advice would you give someone thinking about doing their HGV Licence?

Darrell's biggest piece of advice is simple, trust your instructor.

"Listen to what your instructors are telling you. They have the experience and are sharing that knowledge with you for a reason. It can feel daunting when you're told to stay close to the white line or take corners much wider than you're used to, but it's all about keeping you and everyone else safe."

He also encourages anyone considering a career in haulage to look beyond simply driving a truck.

"There's a lot more to the industry than people realise. Do your research and understand what the job involves. If you genuinely enjoy driving, it's a fantastic career that gives you the opportunity to travel, visit places you may never otherwise see.'

Why did you take the leap from driver to instructor?

For Darrell, the decision ultimately came down to achieving a better work-life balance.

"Becoming an instructor gave me a role that fitted around family life school runs.."

Today, he combines his passion for driving with the satisfaction of helping the next generation of HGV drivers build the skills and confidence they need to begin their own careers on the road.