Brent Karsgard, one of our P&D Drivers based in Surrey, has been driving with Van Kam for 15 years, making him a familiar face on the road and in the Surrey terminal. His journey has been one of consistency, adaptability, and passion for the open road. Brent has seen the industry evolve, technology shift, and the landscape change, all while staying steady behind the wheel.
The Road to Van Kam
Brent’s journey with Van Kam started in 2010 with an interview unlike any other. As a deaf driver, he arrived prepared to communicate through an interpreter, only to find none available. “It was during the Paralympics, so interpreters were fully booked,” Brent recalls. “We had to write back and forth during the interview,” he adds. That first interaction set the tone for the years ahead. Van Kam found a way to make it work, and Brent found a place to build a career.
Behind the Wheel of Both Worlds
Brent has experienced the best of both trucking worlds. He spent seven years on long-haul routes, running overnight trips and covering vast distances before switching to city driving. The change brought a new pace and a different set of challenges, but for Brent, it was the right move. “City driving was a good switch,” he says. “It gave me more stability, and I’m glad I’ve done both.”
Even as the industry evolves, Brent stays open to change. He’s had the chance to drive an electric truck, an experience that left an impression. “It will take some getting used to,” he says. “Too quiet for me,” he further admits. For Brent, adaptability is key. “You have to keep learning,” he says. “That’s what helps.”
Born to Ride
Brent loves motorcycles. He’s been riding for over 40 years, travelling across Canada and the US. Some of his favourite rides have been through Colorado, New Hampshire, West Virginia, and Virginia Beach. “I’ve ridden many bikes over the years, each with its own feel,” he says. “But if I had to pick the best, the Honda Valkyrie stands out. It’s powerful, smooth, and just a great ride,” he says with a grin as if picturing himself back on the road.
He’s also the only Canadian member of DeafPower RC, a motorcycle club for deaf riders based in the US. Despite the distance, he stays connected to the group and the passion that has fueled him for decades.
Still Rolling Strong
After 15 years with Van Kam, Brent still enjoys the rhythm of the road, the places it takes him, and the people he meets along the way. Whether behind the wheel of a truck or on his motorcycle, the journey is what keeps him going.