Lester Dague
Bend,Oregon
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience as an Owner/Operator Truck Driver at Kool Pak. Proven track record in optimizing logistics and enhancing customer satisfaction through exceptional service and effective problem-solving. Skilled in route planning and compliance, fostering teamwork and collaboration to achieve operational excellence.
Overview
48
48
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Operator Truck Driver
Kool Pak
09.2024 - 07.2025
- Operated and maintained commercial trucks for safe and timely deliveries.
- Managed logistics, route planning, and load optimization for efficient operations.
- Ensured compliance with federal and state regulations regarding transportation safety.
- Conducted regular vehicle inspections to ensure reliability and performance standards.
- Provided exceptional customer service through effective communication with clients.
- Trained new drivers on operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Implemented cost-saving measures by optimizing fuel consumption and maintenance schedules.
- Developed strong relationships with suppliers to streamline delivery processes.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Operated with safety and skill to avoid accidents and delays.
- Maintained compliance with weight limits, safety regulations, and transportation laws through diligent record-keeping and inspections.
- Maintained daily, legible DOT log book and submitted corresponding documents.
- Demonstrated safe driving by following regulations and safety procedures, resulting in zero accidents.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing concerns promptly, resolving issues professionally, and fostering positive rapport with clients.
- Inspected vehicle and equipment before and after every trip to monitor routine wear and identify larger maintenance issues.
- Managed financial aspects of business operations including budgeting, expense tracking, invoice processing, and tax filing.
- Established strong working relationships with dispatchers, resulting in improved coordination and scheduling.
- Dropped and hooked trailers and changed configuration of equipment.
- Completed preventive maintenance and mechanical repairs on vehicles.
- Streamlined delivery process by planning optimal routes, considering fuel costs and traffic conditions.
- Reduced downtime due to mechanical issues by quickly identifying problems and coordinating repairs.
- Continuously updated industry knowledge through participation in professional development opportunities such as training seminars or workshops.
- Promoted a safe work environment by adhering to company policies and federal regulations governing commercial vehicle operations.
- Spoke professionally with customers regarding complaints, gathering all necessary information to make educated decisions and address issues.
- Maximized payload capacity while adhering to legal weight restrictions through careful selection of cargo assignments.
- Boosted customer satisfaction by ensuring timely and accurate deliveries, maintaining open communication with clients.
- Maintained current Class Type CDL with Hazardous Materials and Doubles and Triples endorsements.
- Collaborated with other owner/operators in networking efforts to exchange information, resources, and business opportunities.
- Contributed to a positive team atmosphere among fellow drivers by providing support, assistance, and sharing best practices when needed.
- Fostered strong professional network and partnership building skills to connect with quality leads.
- Enhanced customer relations by consistently delivering shipments according to schedule and quickly addressing any concerns.
- Enhanced fleet performance metrics by consistently meeting deadlines for pick-ups/deliveries without compromising safety standards.
- Increased revenue by strategically expanding client base and negotiating favorable contract terms.
- Improved overall organizational productivity by implementing efficient time management techniques for both driving hours and non-driving tasks.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by performing routine maintenance checks on the truck and equipment.
- Adopted advanced technological tools to optimize navigation, record keeping and vehicle maintenance tracking which contributed to overall efficiency.
- Coordinated seamless handoffs between other drivers or distribution centers to ensure continuity of service for customers.
- Achieved cost savings for business operations through effective fuel management strategies and preventative maintenance programs.
- Utilized GPS and other navigation tools to plan routes and stay on schedule.
- Obtained necessary permits and licenses to operate various commercial vehicles legally.
- Kept accurate records of cargo delivery times and vehicle maintenance to provide documentation to dispatch for billing and inventory purposes.
- Minimized delays by planning and adjusting routes to account for changing weather and traffic conditions.
- Inspected trucks for malfunctions and reported vehicles to management for corrective action.
- Inspected load security and checked for damages.
- Completed daily inspections, basic maintenance and common repair actions to keep equipment operating at full capacity.
- Completed routine maintenance on truck to keep in working order.
- Inspected trucks and trailers before each trip to assess safety and identify maintenance concerns.
- Documented mileage, deliveries, pickups, customer issues and damages.
- Fastened chains, straps, covers, and binders to secure load during transit.
- Communicated with dispatchers and other office personnel to handle two-way updates and adjust daily schedules.
- Complied with truck driving rules as well as company policies and procedures regarding safe vehicle operations.
- Coordinated efficient routes for optimal delivery scheduling and maximum daily performance.
- Checked shipping papers to determine nature of load and checked for presence of hazardous materials.
- Determined quickest and safest routes for delivery by using effective planning and organizational skills.
- Managed efficient unloading of freight, inspected merchandise, and documented customer concerns for supervisor.
- Inspected vehicle before and after trips and logged and reported mechanical problems to avoid unsafe hazards.
- Conferred with dispatch to relay delays, receive route, and adjust plans to meet daily targets.
- Completed preventive maintenance checks and basic repairs to vehicles.
- Managed supplier record tracking and data communications tasks while automating operations to enhance efficiency.
Deputy Sheriff, Road Patrol
Humboldt County Sheriff's Office
08.1994 - 08.2004
- Enforced traffic laws and ensured public safety during patrol operations.
- Conducted thorough investigations of accidents and criminal incidents, documenting findings accurately.
- Collaborated with community members to build relationships and enhance public trust in law enforcement.
- Responded swiftly to emergency calls, assessing situations and deploying appropriate law enforcement tactics.
- Provided assistance during emergencies, including evacuations, natural disasters, or search-and-rescue operations for better protection of the community.
- Coordinated with local agencies to address regional concerns, enhancing interagency collaboration for public safety initiatives.
- Implemented strategies to improve response times and reduce crime rates in designated areas.
- Trained new deputies on department policies and procedures to ensure a smooth transition into their roles as road patrol officers.
- Deescalated potentially volatile situations using crisis intervention techniques, resulting in peaceful resolutions without resorting to force whenever possible.
- Enhanced community relations through regular attendance at neighborhood meetings and participation in public events.
- Proactively identified potential hazards during patrols, promptly addressing them to reduce risks and enhance public safety.
- Served arrest warrants diligently while adhering to proper protocol for the safe apprehension of suspects.
- Improved public safety by conducting thorough patrols and responding promptly to calls for service.
- Ensured adherence to departmental procedures regarding evidence collection and storage by following established protocols accurately.
- Established positive rapport with community members through friendly interactions and prompt attention to concerns, fostering trust between the department and the public.
- Performed vehicle maintenance checks before every shift as part of department guidelines for optimal vehicle performance while on duty.
- Continually updated knowledge of federal, state, and local laws for accurate interpretation and enforcement during daily patrols.
- Testified effectively in court proceedings regarding personal actions taken during investigations or arrests as required by legal process.
- Collaborated with fellow deputies and local law enforcement agencies to share information and resources, leading to more effective crime prevention strategies.
- Conducted thorough searches of individuals or vehicles when necessary, uncovering illegal contraband or evidence leading to successful case closures.
- Conducted investigations into criminal activity, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to solve cases efficiently.
- Managed time efficiently while on duty, prioritizing tasks and remaining flexible in response to changing circumstances as they arose.
- Coordinated traffic control efforts during major events or accidents for smoother flow of vehicles around affected areas.
- Maintained accurate records of incidents, arrests, and other activities, ensuring timely submission of reports for review by supervisors.
- Investigated incidents and crimes, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements.
- Patrolled designated areas in patrol vehicle and on foot to identify security and safety issues.
- Organized criminal documents such as logs, records, reports, and agendas to streamline processing and improve traceability.
- Performed rescue functions at accidents, emergencies and disasters by directing traffic and administering emergency medical aid.
- Responded to emergency calls to provide assistance to citizens in need.
- Utilized clear communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with citizens.
- Built excellent rapport and working relationship with community to build trust and improve upon communication.
- Conducted searches of individuals, vehicles and premises.
- Identified, pursued and arrested suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts.
- Monitored crowded public areas and events to mitigate risk and promote safety.
- Participated in continuous firearms proficiency, defensive driving and arrest technique training.
- Monitored traffic violations, issuing citations as necessary.
- Provided testimony in court proceedings.
- Monitored criminal activity in community to identify suspicious activity.
- Handled citation and traffic violation paperwork.
- Assisted in special investigations and crime prevention programs.
- Obtained information from arrested subjects to conduct debriefings.
- Thoroughly analyzed criminal information and processed crime scenes.
- Trained other officers in firearms and self-defense tactics.
Staff Sargent
USMC
09.1977 - 12.1992
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
Education
High School Diploma - POST Certificate
Arroyo Grande High School
Arroyo Grande, CASkills
Friendly, positive attitude
Timeline
Owner/Operator Truck Driver
Kool Pak
09.2024 - 07.2025
Deputy Sheriff, Road Patrol
Humboldt County Sheriff's Office
08.1994 - 08.2004
Staff Sargent
USMC
09.1977 - 12.1992
High School Diploma - POST Certificate
Arroyo Grande High School