‘Sometimes I might read about or see a job (site) and I feel proud because I know that if I didn’t bring that piece of equipment needed, gas production wouldn't be possible.
Ian ‘Cruz’ Charles was a young boy living in Erin Village when his fascination with Heavy T vehicles was first sparked, simply from observing (with awe) the containerized trucks going back and forth. This interest was further fueled by having an uncle who drove Heavy T vehicles. In his words, although older “I am still not very tall (5ft 1”), but when I get into the cabin of the trucks that I drive, I feel taller and very much in control and I know how powerful I become.”
Ian is a trusted member of the team at D.S. Movers Ltd. based in Claxton Bay. His skill on the job and his command of the space that he is in charge of, allowed him to be a part of the recent move of oversized mud tanks for Touchstone Exploration. He explained to us that this move spanned roughly one week, with multiple teams being involved to ensure the safety of the items entrusted for delivery, the public and those involved in executing the move. Apart from this, he has been responsible for transporting items for several major energy sector companies including Heritage Petroleum, bpTT, Shell, Mc Dermott, Asco Logistics, Proman, De Novo, Massy Gas and many more.
Ian reflected on the significance of his work, particularly when transporting oversized equipment, emphasizing its importance and the responsibility it entails. One job that stands out is the move of a 75-foot-long rig some years ago. Ian explained that a complex rig move operation could involve police escorts and T&TEC if the load exceeded height limits, as was the case with the Star Valley rig which was brought from Calgary.
A key priority when doing his job is always safety, which Ian emphasized “is a top priority for myself and others.” Ian explained: “Before leaving the yard/job site we as drivers, have to check that the equipment we are transporting is properly secured and sitting as it is should be, before each call.” In addition, there are other safety practices which Ian stressed: pulling over to take calls even though he uses a headset, getting adequate rest before a job and leaving any personal issues behind, to focus better on his task. To eliminate the challenge of being on the road for even longer hours once his day has ended, Ian also decided to move out of Erin Village, to a location much nearer to his job.
Prior to driving, Ian assisted other drivers as a lorryman, while waiting to reach the required age of 25 to qualify him to become licensed as a Heavy T driver. He appreciates the role of his team and explained “the role of the lorryman in a safe delivery is a big factor; the lorryman will see and observe things the driver cannot, and it is important that you as the driver, get along well with the lorry man’’. One thing is clear, Ian has deep pride for the significance of his work, particularly when transporting oversized equipment, and always stressed its importance and the responsibility it entails.
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His upbringing in a rural area and in sometimes difficult circumstances prepared him for life: “I always had to work hard for what I wanted and although I moved out for work-related reasons, my home and village will always feel like paradise”. His mentor and greatest inspiration has been his father, a groundsman at a nearby beach, noting that “my dad has always supported me and encouraged me to do my best”. Because of his insistence, Ian completed a course in welding, a skill which Ian is pleased to have as a back-up. Ian’s gratitude to his father is overwhelming as he added that his father has consistently been there to support him, providing all that he needed to succeed.
When asked about how he maintained the correct mindset for a job where so much is as stake, Ian shared his routine of starting each day with gratitude and positivity, which helps him maintain a good attitude at work despite challenging situations. Professionally, Ian enjoys the camaraderie at D.S. Movers Ltd, where he has also learned to operate various heavy machinery and trailers under the guidance of experienced colleagues like Shiva, George and Kiran. The supportive work environment at D.S. Movers Ltd, where employees have willingly shared their knowledge, significantly expanded Ian's skills and confidence in the transportation and moving sector. He advised young people to not be afraid to pursue truck driving as a profession, emphasizing that “everyone starts somewhere, and there will be challenges as it is a little complex to master a truck's system; but be patient and focused”.
Ian is proud of his role in the energy sector which he acknowledged contributes in a significant way to Trinidad and Tobago’s economy: ‘Sometimes I might read about or see a job (site) and I feel proud because I know that if I didn’t bring that piece of equipment needed, gas production wouldn't be possible.”
His exposure to different roles in the sector has also inspired him to want to further his education, all part of his plans for the future.