Driving Success: Lee Polcin’s Journey with Paper Transport

At Paper Transport, our drivers are the heart of everything we do. Their dedication, hard work, and passion for the road keep America moving—and we love sharing their stories. This time, we’re highlighting Lee Polcin, a valued member of the Paper Transport team.

Lee’s journey with us is one of commitment, growth, and a true love for trucking. From what brought him to Paper Transport to what keeps him here, Lee shares his experiences, insights, and what makes this company feel like home.

Lee has been with Paper Transport for 11 years, but his journey started at a much larger carrier where he felt like just a number. “I kept running into PTI drivers, and they all had nothing but positive things to say. They seemed genuinely happy to be with PTI,” he recalls.

What ultimately sealed the deal for Lee was Paper Transport’s reliability. “When PTI says you’ll be home at a certain time, you’ll be home.” He started in the intermodal division, running routes from Green Bay to Chicago five days a week, which allowed him to enjoy the balance of being on the road while making it home daily.

With prior experience as a trainer, transitioning into the role of Driver Training Instructor at Paper Transport was a natural fit for Lee. “I’ve always enjoyed working with new drivers, extending the olive branch into trucking,” he shares. “We’ve all been in those shoes at one time.”

As part of Paper Transport’s Accelerate Program, recent CDL-A graduates receive hands-on training in essential skills like backing and basic maneuvering. After completing the program, they’re assigned to a trainer who guides them through real-life driving experiences.

For Lee, the most fulfilling part of training is seeing the transformation in his trainees. “Watching them go from day one—where they have no idea what they’re doing—to excelling behind the wheel is incredible,” he says. “It’s gratifying to see everything click and to watch them be proud of themselves, especially in a role that can be so intimidating for so many people.”

His trainees come from every background—men and women, young and old, and those making a complete career switch. “It’s rewarding to show them that they’re capable and that they can truly excel in this industry.”

According to Lee, Paper Transport goes above and beyond in supporting its drivers. “If you have a career goal and mention it to your driver manager, they truly listen and keep an eye out for opportunities that align with what you want.”

Even early in his career, Lee felt supported. “When I was in intermodal, they connected me with experienced drivers in that division. I could reach out to them for advice on specific routes and customers—it made all the difference.”

Paper Transport’s training program and the long-term career opportunities they give drivers are unique because they prioritize the individual. “You don’t feel like a number; you feel like a person,” Lee emphasizes. “If a route or assignment doesn’t work for you, you can call and explain why. They actually listen and work with you.”

One of Lee’s favorite experiences is running into former trainees out on the road. “Still driving three days a week, I cross paths with drivers I’ve trained, and hearing their stories about how they’ve grown is really meaningful.”

For those just starting their trucking career, Lee has a few words of wisdom: “Be patient. Be open-minded. Learn how the industry works and take your time. Listen to other drivers who have advice to give.”

One thing new drivers can count on at Paper Transport is support. “If you have a question, you’ll get connected with the person who has the answer. You’re never alone in this journey.”

Journeys like Lee’s are a testament to the growth, support, and opportunities available at Paper Transport. Whether you're starting your trucking career, looking to advance your skills, or exploring new opportunities in the industry, Paper Transport provides the tools, resources, and community to help you succeed.

Ready to take the next step? Join Paper Transport today!