Q&A with Equipment Operations Manager Brenden Mueller: Keeping PTI’s Fleet Running Strong
Post Date - May 14, 2025
Q&A with Equipment Operations Manager Brenden Mueller: Keeping PTI’s Fleet Running Strong
At Paper Transport, moving freight safely and efficiently starts with the people behind the scenes — and Equipment Operations Manager Brenden Mueller is one of those key players. Brenden helps make sure every truck and trailer is road-ready and reliable. We caught up with him for a quick Q&A to learn more about what he does, what drives him, and how his team supports PTI drivers every day.
Q: How long have you been with Paper Transport, and how did you get started in maintenance?
Brenden: I’ve been with PTI since August 2020, so coming up on five years. I got started in maintenance through a previous job where I helped oversee trailer repairs. That experience really sparked my interest in equipment and fleet operations and eventually led me here to Paper Transport.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you and your team?
Brenden: Every day is a little different, but there’s a solid rhythm to what we do. We start by checking maintenance messages from drivers and scheduling any necessary repairs. We stay in touch with vendors to get updates, process invoices, and make sure preventive maintenance is getting done on time. We also work with other internal teams on new business launches and make sure trucks are prepped and ready when onboarding new drivers.
Q: What are some of the biggest priorities when it comes to keeping the fleet running smoothly?
Brenden: Vendor communication is a huge one. We work closely with our repair partners to make sure repairs are moving quickly and that parts are available. Reducing idle time is another big priority — it can really impact fuel efficiency and engine health. We’ve also recently rolled out Uptake, an AI-powered maintenance tool that helps us spot potential issues before they become major problems. It’s already helped us cut down on unplanned downtime.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
Brenden: I love that no two days are the same. There’s always a new challenge, and that keeps things interesting. But honestly, the best part is supporting our drivers. Knowing that what we do helps them stay on the road safely and comfortably — that’s what motivates me.
Q: What do you think sets Paper Transport apart from other companies in the industry?
Brenden: It’s the culture. PTI truly walks the walk when it comes to safety and relationships. Safety isn’t just a policy — it’s a priority in everything we do. And the relationships here are real. Whether it’s with drivers, coworkers, or vendors, there’s a genuine sense of accountability and mutual respect.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment or story from your time with the company?
Brenden: Definitely. A couple of winters ago, during a cold snap in Wisconsin, Cori Shearer and I went truck to truck in the yard, putting in fuel additives and starting engines to make sure they wouldn’t freeze overnight. We were freezing, too — but it was worth it to give our drivers the best shot at making their runs the next morning.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in a maintenance career in the transportation industry?
Brenden: Be open to change and stay curious. This industry is constantly evolving with new tech and equipment. If you’re willing to keep learning and adapting, there’s a lot of opportunity.
Q: When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?
Brenden: I spend most of my time with my wife, Allison, and our dog, Ernie. We love getting outdoors for hikes, bike rides, and walks. I’m also a diehard Wisconsin sports fan — Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Badgers — I’m watching it all. And in the summer, we’re usually up north or checking out concerts.
At the end of the day, Brenden and the rest of the maintenance team are here to support what matters most — our drivers. Whether it’s catching potential issues before they cause delays or making sure new drivers hit the road with confidence, their work is a key part of what keeps Paper Transport rolling.
And we couldn’t do it without the whole team — from those turning wrenches to those turning miles. A big thank you to our maintenance crew, operations staff, and especially our drivers for everything you do to keep PTI moving forward.