After serving 25 years in the United States Army, Brooks-Buck was ready for a new chapter. Although her military career had been rooted in logistics, leadership and transportation, becoming a professional truck driver was never something she had considered.
That changed when her husband, Johnny, who was already working in the trucking industry, suggested they become team drivers. After years of military service that often required time apart, the opportunity to work together was particularly appealing. Brooks-Buck embraced the idea without hesitation, recognizing that it would allow them to spend more time together while building a new career.
In her first year behind the wheel, she has successfully transitioned from military service into trucking, earned national recognition and discovered opportunities to encourage others considering careers in transportation.
When Brooks-Buck joined Werner Enterprises, her priority was becoming a safe, confident and dependable professional driver. Although her military background provided a strong foundation, she understood that operating a tractor-trailer required new skills and a willingness to learn.
One of her earliest experiences at Werner helped establish her confidence. During her first drive with her trainer, Mr. George, his patience, calm demeanor and belief in her abilities immediately put her at ease. By the end of that drive, she felt reassured that she had made the right career decision. The experience also reinforced a leadership principle she had carried throughout her military service: effective leaders recognize potential and create opportunities for others to succeed.
While Brooks-Buck quickly developed an appreciation for driving a tractor-trailer, mastering backing maneuvers presented a greater challenge. Even with decades of logistics experience, she discovered that understanding transportation operations and physically maneuvering a commercial vehicle were two very different responsibilities. Rather than allowing frustration to discourage her, she focused on accepting feedback, practicing consistently and recognizing her progress.
Johnny has played an important role in that development, providing patient instruction and encouragement as she continues refining her skills. Together, they have adapted to the demands of over-the-road trucking while learning to navigate the responsibilities of working as a team.
Brooks-Buck's first year in trucking has also brought opportunities she never anticipated. Among her most meaningful accomplishments was being selected as an Elite 11 finalist in the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award program.
The recognition was particularly significant because it came during her first year as a professional driver, following more than two decades of military service. Attending the finalist ceremony at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, alongside fellow veterans who had successfully transitioned into trucking, made the experience even more memorable.
For Brooks-Buck, the recognition demonstrated the value military veterans bring to the transportation industry and reinforced the opportunities available to those pursuing a new professional direction.
Her growing involvement with Werner has also included opportunities for dedicated driving assignments, participation in the company's Freedom Trucks program and engagement through driver ambassador initiatives. These experiences have strengthened her interest in encouraging military veterans and women who may be considering careers in trucking.
Although Brooks-Buck is relatively new to professional trucking, her approach to leadership has been shaped by decades of experience in the Army. Throughout her military career, she learned the importance of accountability, fairness and maintaining personal integrity when faced with difficult decisions.
One experience involved a radio that was lost or stolen from her section. Although there was an opportunity to replace the equipment with an excess radio and alter the serial number records, Brooks-Buck refused to compromise her principles. Instead, she accepted responsibility and paid for the missing equipment.
"Integrity isn't about doing what's convenient. It's about doing what's right, even when there are personal consequences," she says.
Today, she applies that philosophy to equipment concerns, operational challenges and the responsibilities that come with safely operating a commercial vehicle.
Empathy is equally important to her leadership philosophy. Throughout her military career, Brooks-Buck wanted those serving under her leadership to feel respected, supported and valued as individuals. She believes understanding another person's perspective requires compassion and genuine concern for their well-being.
Her husband has also been one of her greatest influences as his patience, thoughtful decision-making and ability to approach difficult situations with perspective have shaped her personally and professionally.
For Brooks-Buck, one of the most rewarding aspects of trucking has been the opportunity to share everyday experiences with Johnny. Living and working together in a tractor-trailer requires flexibility, patience and constant communication, particularly when schedules change or unexpected challenges arise.
The couple regularly discusses driving responsibilities, upcoming schedules and ways to support each other. They also make a conscious effort to maintain their sense of humor, finding reasons to laugh even during demanding days. Their first year on the road has allowed them to grow as professional partners while strengthening their marriage and friendship.
Outside of work, Brooks-Buck enjoys spending time with family, including their son, Breyon. Fitness also remains an important part of her life. She enjoys strength training, walking and finding ways to stay physically active, habits that developed during her military career and continue to support her well-being on the road.
As Brooks-Buck looks toward her second year in trucking, she remains committed to improving her driving skills, maintaining a strong focus on safety and exploring opportunities to mentor others. She is particularly passionate about helping military veterans transition into civilian careers and encouraging women who may be considering trucking later in life.
Her membership with WIT has provided valuable professional connections, industry resources and encouragement. During the Transition Trucking finalist ceremony, she met Jenny Fall, WIT's director of driver engagement, whose support made a lasting impression.
Brooks-Buck appreciates the organization's commitment to recognizing women's contributions and creating a community where members can continue learning and growing throughout their careers.
For women who may question whether they belong in trucking because of their age, gender or previous professional experience, Brooks-Buck encourages them to focus on their capabilities rather than others' expectations.
"Your age, gender, or previous career does not determine your ability to succeed," she says.
She emphasizes that a commitment to safety, a strong work ethic, supportive mentors and a willingness to learn are far more important than fitting a traditional image of a truck driver.
Looking ahead, Brooks-Buck hopes to continue participating in initiatives that support leadership development, driver engagement and professional growth. Her first year has shown her that a career transition can create opportunities far beyond what someone initially imagines.
"Above all, remember that it's never too late to begin a new chapter," she says.
For Brooks-Buck, that new chapter began with a desire to spend more time with her husband. It has since developed into a rewarding career that allows her to continue growing professionally while helping others recognize the opportunities available in trucking.
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