The journey from a conventional office career to the freedom of trucking is an adventure like no other. Meet Nat Smith, who traded her keyboard for the open road, transforming her life and career in the process.
Nat Smith, a 42-year-old from Adelaide, made a bold move four years ago, transitioning from a desk job to the exhilarating world of trucking. She currently drives for Energy Logistix Transport, operating double and triple road trains that traverse the stunning landscapes of Australia. Despite spending years as a 'keyboard warrior,' Nat discovered a newfound passion that has changed her life for the better.
A Newfound Passion for Trucking
Nat's transformation into a professional truck driver was not just about the change of scenery; it was about finding fulfillment. "I was a keyboard warrior for about 20 years until my kids grew up. Once they finished school, I decided I wanted to do what I want to do!" she recalls. After years in consumer finance and customer service, the longing for the outdoor life called her back. One of her inspirations was an earlier job driving lunch vans, which reignited her love for being on the road. "That’s when I decided to look at avenues where I could get out on the road – and stay out on the road. It’s all grown from there and now trucking has become an addiction!"
Since embarking on her trucking career, Nat has seen almost every corner of Australia. She emphasizes, "I go everywhere, to any capital city, any dirt road, and any mine site." As a driver for Energy Logistix Transport, Nat operates out of the company’s depot in Largs North, handling a diverse range of tasks and gaining experience in various logistics scenarios.
The Importance of Vehicle Comfort
Currently, Nat drives a 2020 Kenworth C509 named 'Odin.' This truck is more than just a vehicle; it’s a home away from home for long hauls, showcasing the significance of comfort in the trucking industry for drivers like Nat. "It’s so nice to drive and very comfortable. We are incredibly blessed with the space," she explains, highlighting the conveniences that her Kenworth offers: two fridges, a microwave, a TV, and even a pantry for keeping essentials. The Kenworth C509 provides the right blend of comfort and efficiency that truckers need during long days on the road.
Diverse Freight Needs in the Oil and Gas Sector
At Energy Logistix Transport, Nat's work doesn't just revolve around driving. She moves a variety of freight, primarily serving clients in the oil and gas sector. The flexibility required in this industry is crucial, as she transports anything from chemicals to large machinery. "Whatever our client requests is what we carry. Sometimes loading the trailers is like playing Tetris," Nat describes. This adaptability is essential in freight transport, highlighting the sector's reliance on reliable logistics and skilled drivers.
She emphasizes the importance of transport in her job: "If anything needs to be done, I’ll do it.” Her responsibilities extend beyond simply getting from point A to point B; she ensures safe loading and unloading, which is a key skill in the trucking industry. Learning these skills early on at Remote Transport Australia provided her with the foundation she needed to flourish in the field.
A Commitment to Work-Life Harmony
Long hours on the road don’t come without personal impact, yet Nat balances her work life with family commitments. Nat speaks candidly about the longest duration she has been away: "The longest I’ve been away in the truck is five weeks. I love those long trips." Her position allows for flexibility; her employer is supportive of taking time off to be present for family events, highlighting a cooperative work culture at Energy Logistix Transport. "We give our all to the job, and they give their all to us," she emphasizes.
Expanding Her Skills and Opportunities
Nat's progressive journey includes significant milestones, such as obtaining her MC license in January 2024. She expresses gratitude toward her team for their support in her career development. "ELX has been fantastic with the career progression I wanted. They’ve put a massive amount of trust in me by handing over the keys to this equipment. I’m forever grateful for that opportunity," she notes, emphasizing the importance of professional growth in a fulfilling career.
The rhythm of her daily life is captivating. Starting in Adelaide, she may find herself traveling to Perth, navigating dirt roads to reach clients at remote mine sites, a testament to her commitment to Australia’s logistical and transportation needs.
Finding Solace on the Road
Some of the landscapes you get to see are absolutely magnificent too. The epic sunrises in Moomba, driving past Uluru with a triple road train on— the photos just don’t do it justice," says Nat.
Her passion for her work is clear as she describes her routes and the incredible locations she encounters. Nat's experience mirrors what many in her line of work feel: trucking is more than a job; it’s a lifestyle.
The Future of a Trucking Career
For those considering a similar transition into trucking, Nat's journey showcases that it’s never too late to pursue passion. As she puts it, "I would have loved to have started this 20 years ago, but then I probably wouldn’t have had the life I’ve had with my children." The choice to reinvent her career path has come with many rewards, from personal happiness to professional fulfillment.
Ultimately, trucking isn’t just about the trucks or the logistics; it's about the journey, the experiences, and the remarkable women like Nat Smith who push boundaries within the industry. With her Kenworth C509 making waves across Australia’s freight transport landscape, she exemplifies the modern truck driver—versatile, resilient, and wholeheartedly dedicated to the road ahead.