Meet Derek Puhl! Derek works out of Asphalt Materials’ Portage Terminal as a Mechanic for Meigs Transport. Behind every reliable delivery, loaded trailer and sprayer ready for the season is skilled, behind-the-scenes work. And Derek plays a key role in making it all happen.
Working alongside the operations of H.G. Meigs, an Asphalt Materials company serving our Wisconsin region, Meigs Transport provides reliable transportation services for our customers in markets from Wisconsin and Minnesota to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Chicago.
Derek recently celebrated 15 years with the company, spending that time ensuring Meigs Transport’s fleet of over 40 units stays safe, compliant and ready to support operations across the region.
His career path started with a strong mechanical foundation. Immediately after graduating high school, Derek served six years in the U.S. Air Force working in the mechanical field, solidifying his work approach of diligence and precision. He brought this experience to his work in welding before attending school for diesel mechanics.
When Derek joined Meigs Transport, he stepped into a learning-intensive environment, joining a team of seasoned veterans with decades of experience in the industry.
“They had seen everything,” Derek recalls. “Between electric controls, air systems and hydraulics and understanding how they work in semi-trucks, trailers and sprayers; it was a learning experience.”
With the variety of machinery the team must be prepared to work with, Derek doesn’t shy away from the opportunities to broaden his knowledge base: “No two problems are ever the same; there’s always something new you haven’t dealt with before.” And that variety is part of what’s kept Derek in his role for more than a decade and a half.
Ask him what a typical day looks like, and he’ll tell you it depends entirely. Some mornings are filled with preventative maintenance, while others involve brake work, fabrication projects, or diagnosing everything from a simple light issue to a complex engine warning. Seasonality plays a role too, as winter months are often dedicated to servicing vehicles that stay busy during the summer paving season.
Derek’s greatest pride comes when the fleet vehicles hit interstate scales. “If we don’t have discrepancies,” he explains, “that tells me our preventative maintenance program is working. Our inspections matter, and that’s a good feeling.”
Logistics Manager, Darin Wendt, oversees trucking operations at Meigs Transport and speaks highly of Derek’s attention to detail: “Derek takes a lot of pride in making sure our trucks are in the best mechanical shape. With the work that goes into our trucks during the year, our fleet is well-prepared to support daily operations. Drivers are comfortable with any of our spare trucks when they’re needed, mainly due to the thorough inspections done in the shop.”
That mindset has come in handy through Derek’s tenure as he’s adapted to changes in fleet technology of today’s equipment, like more computerized systems, automated transmissions and advanced communication tools. “There’s no notification that something has changed since the last time you worked with a piece of equipment,” he notes. “You notice as you’re working that a system looks different or there’s a new program or brand installed.” The team takes advantage of trainings when they’re available, but being prepared to tackle unfamiliar challenges head-on is a key skill for the role.
Clear communication is on the list of Derek’s skills too; it’s essential to run proper inspections, keep track of what’s in service and what’s due for maintenance. He works closely with fellow mechanic Stuart, drivers, dispatch, plant personnel and sales teams to ensure parts are ordered correctly, equipment stays in service and operations run smoothly.
Derek recalls his early days of mechanical projects rebuilding motorcycles with his brother. These days, when he’s not working on trucks and trailers, Derek prefers to unplug. He enjoys hunting, shooting trap and spending time outdoors.
Darin reflects on working with Derek over the years: “In a time where it’s common for employees to move on every few years, Derek has been a constant. He’s been here since I started over 14 years ago, and that consistency brings a lot of confidence. Derek is always willing to step in and help wherever needed, whether that’s supporting another department or firing up the grill as one of our ‘master cooks’ at the annual steak fry.”
Derek’s dedication, consistency and deep knowledge of our fleet play a vital role in keeping Meigs Transport running strong year after year. We’re grateful for his 15 years of service and the pride he brings to his work every day!
Interested in joining the AMI team? Learn more on our careers page.
