Dean Bolen joined Van Kam two decades ago as a summer relief driver. It was supposed to be a short-term thing, just six months. But that plan changed quickly. Now celebrating 20 years with the company, Dean works as a Dock Foreman at our Kamloops terminal. And according to him, “It’s just a great company to work for.”

Learning the Ropes

Dean spent his first 15 years driving tractor-trailers around town. He was a P&D driver, working in the Kamloops area, making deliveries, and meeting new people daily. He was often on the dock helping out when he wasn’t behind the wheel.

About five years ago, the dock foreman at our Kamloops terminal retired. Dean saw the job posting, applied, and got the spot. The switch has worked out well. “I’m in at four and done early. It gives me time to do other things,” he says. “It’s a bit more physical, too, which I like.”

What Makes It Worth It

Dean is one of those people who keeps things simple. When asked what’s kept him at Van Kam for 20 years, he doesn’t overthink it. “The people,” he says. “I’ve worked with good folks here. Steady, respectful, easy to get along with.” For Dean, that kind of environment makes showing up every day pretty easy.

Hooked on the Outdoors

Dean spends his time off the clock like he’s spent much of his life. Outdoors and unplugged. He camps anywhere he can roll up and set down, whether deep in the trees or by the water. Norbury Lake is his go-to for trout and pike. “It’s peaceful out there,” he says. “You can just sit, cast your line, and not worry about anything.”

Shuswap Lake is another favourite, a go-to for camping and more fishing. For Dean, it’s the quiet, the space, and the reset that comes with every trip. “Just being outside, camping, fishing, that’s my thing,” he says. And if you ask him, there’s nothing better.

Cheers to 20

What started as a short-term job turned into two decades of solid work. Dean has done a bit of everything and seen a lot of change, but some things stay the same with good people, honest work and a team that has your back. Thanks for being part of the Van Kam team, Dean. Here’s to the next chapter.