For 50 years, Roger Zehr has been a defining presence at The Erb Group. We recently had the chance to sit down with him to reflect on his extraordinary journey and the memories he has gathered along the way. Roger’s commitment, enthusiasm, and positive spirit have shaped our team and culture in countless ways. Thank you, Roger, for 50 incredible years!  

Do you remember your very first day at Erb? What was it like?  

On my very first night working the dock, I was the new guy and became the target of some good-natured fun. While we were loading a truck, the crew asked me to go find a “van stretcher” so we could fit more on the truck. Not knowing any better, I went to the shop and asked Ron, the Shop Foreman at the time, for it. He just looked at me and said, “I think they're pulling your leg.” When I got back, the team had a good laugh. It’s a funny memory from my first night that I still look back on fondly.  

What’s one thing that’s changed the most in trucking since you started?  

Definitely, the biggest change has been the trucks themselves. When I started, trucks were basic and quite a bumpy ride; no air ride seats, no air suspension, not even radios or air conditioning. Now, they’re much more comfortable and enjoyable to drive. The improvements have made a big difference!   [caption id="attachment_4234" align="alignright" width="269"] Roger Zehr and Bob Litchty with Santa, 1980's[/caption] Another thing I can think of that’s changed over the years is that crossing the border is a lot easier now. It used to take hours with piles of paperwork, but today, everything’s electronic, and you’re through in minutes.  

Approximately how many miles have you driven?  

I’ve driven about 3 million miles in my career, with the most time spent on the New York City route over the last 30 years.  

What’s kept you driving with Erb all these years?  

A few things have kept me driving at Erb for so many years, but mostly it’s the people. Having a good group of drivers and coworkers around you made every day better. And if you were fortunate enough to meet the founders, Vernon and Viola, they were down-to-earth and made everyone feel appreciated, setting the tone for a warm team atmosphere that still exists today.   Another thing was just the nature of the work. I loved meeting new people, and no two days were the same, which kept things interesting and made every day enjoyable. You had your work, and as long as you did your work, things went well.  

Do you have a favourite memory or moment from your time on the road or with the team?  

One of my funniest memories was training a new driver in Chatham. Since there were only a few boxes to deliver at one of our stops, I told him I’d quickly run them in the front door while he circled the block. When I got out of the truck, he drove off before I could get the boxes out of the back. I chased after him down the street and got him to stop so I could get the boxes. We both had a good laugh about that one on the way home. But my fondest memory is driving one of the antique trucks in the truck convoy for Vernon; it was a special moment that honoured our founder and meant a lot to me.  

What advice would you give to a new driver just starting at Erb?  

My advice to new drivers is simple: stick with it and keep a good attitude. Erb is a great place to work; my 50 years here are proof. Don’t let others’ opinions cloud your own experience. A positive outlook makes all the difference.  

What does celebrating 50 years mean to you?   

[caption id="attachment_4235" align="alignright" width="431"] Roger Zehr, with Erb's Executive Team members[/caption] Celebrating 50 years here is a huge accomplishment. I never expected to be here 50 years; it just happened because I loved the people and the work. I’m honoured to be the first full-time employee, outside the Erb family, to reach this milestone. It’s been a great journey and a real team effort.   It feels a bit like running a relay race, each of us passing the baton, sharing what we know and pushing forward together. That sense of teamwork is what makes this place special. Celebrating a milestone with The Erb Group? Share your story with us! We’re proud to recognize the people who make our legacy possible. Connect our team at marketing@erbgroup.com and let us help recognize your special moment!