For the fourth consecutive year, RST-Sunbury has received national recognition for its workplace culture. The New Brunswick-based transportation company was named a 2021 Top Fleet Employer, an award bestowed annually by Trucking HR Canada. It is a welcome reminder that the global pandemic may have changed how the company operates daily, but not its winning culture and team spirit.  

Professional Drivers, Leonard Roy (L) and Jared Brennan (R), pictured at RST-Sunbury’s company headquarters in Saint John, NB. Photographed in 2019.

RST Sunbury Staff Members, Robyn Morton (L) Colleen Theriault (M), Wanda Jenkins (R) pictured at the company headquarters in Saint John, NB. Photographed in 2019.

“We have a culture of care within RST-Sunbury,” said Andrew Fisher, General Manager with the company. “We’re checking in with drivers and asking how they’re doing. The last number of months have demonstrated how important kindness and staying in touch are - especially to those working alone. When we have a culture of trust, it leads to better service and better business. It’s our people who keep the wheels turning. They are wholly deserving of this recognition.”

In August, the company launched its “Driving Kindness” campaign, a new take on its annual Driver Appreciation celebrations. The RST-Sunbury leadership team asked drivers to nominate the organizations, people and communities that stepped up to help drivers and others impacted by the pandemic, allowing them to become directly involved in giving back to these communities.  

Retired Sunbury Fleet Manager, Keith Phillips (R), and Professional Driver, Dani Yakir (L), pictured prior to presenting a Driving Kindness Donation to Hospice House in Fredericton NB.

RST Owner Operator, Craig Shannon, and Lieut. Maurice Collins of the Salvation Army Port Aux Basques. When most businesses were forced to close, the Salvation Army stepped up to ensure drivers had access to free hot meals as they travelled between provinces - often living on the road for days or weeks.

“We are thrilled to be recognized again this year as a Top Fleet Employer,” said Stacey Miller, Director of Human Resources with RST-Sunbury. “I am so proud to be associated with the devoted men and women who are truly the warriors on the front lines during these turbulent times.  Our drivers’ unwavering devotion to our communities, where we live and work, does not go unnoticed and we are extremely grateful as they keep driving kindness and always delivering.”

“Trucking and logistics employers and their employees continue to be leaders in getting us through the pandemic” wrote Angela Splinter, Trucking HR Canada CEO, in the organization’s press release. “And, as we look to support economic recovery, our Top Fleet employers lead the way in offering great workplaces for Canadians seeking new employment opportunities.”

Trucking HR Canada will recognize all award recipients during its Annual Awards Gala in the Fall.

About the Award

The Top Fleet Employer designation is highly regarded in the industry, and selection criteria is rigorous. Each business is evaluated through interviews with company driver, owner operators and staff; these interviews touch on recruitment and retention practices, workplace culture, compensation, training and skills development, and innovative HR practices. This process is overseen by a Top Fleet Employers Council to ensure an accurate reflection of HR issues, trends and current working environments.

Top Fleet Employers are leaders in promoting a positive and professional image of the overall trucking and logistics industry. The demonstrate the ability to attract and retain skilled workers.