Dentist Turned Truck Driver Fulfills Lifelong Dream

Dec. 22, 2003
Robert Turner, a successful dentist in Marietta, New York, fulfilled a 55-year dream when he passed his road test in October and obtained his Commercial Drivers License class-A license. “When I passed that road test, I was almost in tears because I was so happy,” Turner said. “I was so emotional. Passing my road test and succeeding at the National Tractor Trailer School was equal to the thrill I had
Robert Turner, a successful dentist in Marietta, New York, fulfilled a 55-year dream when he passed his road test in October and obtained his Commercial Drivers License class-A license.

“When I passed that road test, I was almost in tears because I was so happy,” Turner said. “I was so emotional. Passing my road test and succeeding at the National Tractor Trailer School was equal to the thrill I had when I graduated with honors from the top school of dentistry in the country with honors.”

Turner has loved trucks for as long as he can remember. When he was five, he recalled waving to the GI’s from World War II who were driving the military trucks along a highway close to his home. “I was in awe as I watched freight trucks pass by my home on a daily basis. I loved how trucks made the best sounds along with how big and powerful they were,” Turner said.

Upon graduating from high school, Turner spent another ten years in school and graduated from Tufts University, School of Dental Medicine in June of 1969. Since then, Turner has been a dentist for the past 35 years. In his free time, however, Turner restored nine diesel GMC trucks, doing everything from welding to painting.

Now Turner is in the process of transitioning from dentistry to specialty trucking. Currently, he is using the placement department at NTTS to find a job that allows for weekend driving before he retires from dentistry.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!